BENTLEY MOTORS: Detail Focused Design
“The details are not the details,” Charles Eames once famously proclaimed, “they make the design.” That compulsion for thoughtfully executed tailoring runs through the entirety of the 2019 Bentley Motors lineup, whose highlights are on display at this year’s The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering.
The new 2019 Continental GT makes its Quail debut this year, representing the latest expression of Bentley's legendary coupe. The follow-up to the car that ignited Bentley's 21st century renaissance, the new GT reinvents what was already considered the world's pre-eminent grand tourer. Sculpted with a reverence for the model's signature design touches but reinterpreted with an eye towards the future, the new Continental GT sits lower, wider, and more elegantly aggressive than its predecessor. Despite the larger footprint, reworked geometry and weight reduction elevate the GT's roadholding and maneuverability while a new 48-volt active anti-roll suspension system enhances ride smoothness and control. The W12-powered 2+2's interior is also replete with distinctive touches like wristwatch-inspired, machined aluminum Côtes de Genève finishes and top-stitched leather embroidered with a “diamond in diamond” pattern.
Bentley's first move towards electrification comes with the new Bentayga Hybrid, which uses a sophisticated GPS-based algorithm to bias power expenditure between its electric and internal combustion powerplants. Capable of 31 miles of pure EV range, the Bentayga Hybrid can fully replenish its battery in 2.5 hours using a rapid charger. In true Bentley fashion, the charging hardware is both beautiful and innovative. Designed by the legendary Philippe Starck, the dock incorporates an ecologically sourced linen material and an exquisitely finished hot-pressure cast aluminum surface.
The Bentayga V8 elaborates on the high performance super SUV theme originated by its twelve-cylinder stablemate. Subtly differentiated by features like a darkened grille and twin-quad exhaust tailpipes, the Bentayga V8's silky smooth 542 horsepower engine sacrifices only four-tenths of a second in the sprint to 60 mph, but gains considerable efficiency and a substantial cruising range of 464 miles. Available for the first time in Bentayga is a carbon ceramic braking system; enthusiasts will also savor how the exhaust note morphs from a hushed hum to a gratifying burble at the touch of a button.
Commemorating Bentley's upcoming 100-year anniversary is the Mulliner Centenary Limited Edition Mulsanne, which tips a hat to the last vehicle designed by company founder W.O. Bentley, his personal 8-liter saloon. These rare Mulsannes were inspired by ‘GK 706', W.O.'s commission which was executed by H.J. Mulliner on a 12-foot, short wheelbase chassis. The original car plays an ongoing role in Bentley's history, and is ceremonially handed over to each company CEO, a tradition that dates back to the manufacturer's origins. Key carryover elements from GK 706 include the use of heritage hides, unique marquetry, and Centenary-themed features. The Mulliner Centenary Limited Edition will only see 100 examples, and will be available as Mulsanne and Mulsanne Speed models.
Rounding out the Bentley lineup at The Quail is the Flying Spur W12 S, the first Bentley sedan to break the 200 mph barrier. Underscored by blacked out trim, the W12 S cuts a mysterious swathe, from its Beluga gloss radiator grille and light surrounds to its aggressive rear diffuser. Powered by a 626 horsepower engine, the W12 S is capable of swift, silent acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in a scant 4.2 seconds. Complementing its performance is a cylinder de-activation system which enhances efficiency and cruising range.
From minute touches to expansive sweeps, Bentley's detailfocused design encapsulates an elegance that belies the futurefacing engineering that lies beneath.