The Bentley Supersports: A stripped-out engineer's indulgence
Key Points:
- Bentley has introduced the Supersports, a new rear-wheel-drive, non-hybrid version of its Continental GT, featuring a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine producing 657 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, marking the lightest Bentley since 1941 at under 4,407 lbs (1,999 kg).
- The Supersports emphasizes driver engagement with advanced features like 48V active anti-roll bars, recalibrated suspension modes, and optional Pirelli Trofeo RS tires enabling cornering at 1.3 Gs, supported by aerodynamic enhancements generating 661 lbs more downforce than the Continental GT Speed.
- Bentley has built only two units so far and plans a limited production run of 500 Supersports, all of which have already been sold, with a starting price of $486,200 before options.
- Despite its performance focus, the Supersports maintains Bentley's hallmark comfort, featuring electrically adjustable sports seats and retaining stability control systems to ensure manageable handling.
- The car balances lightweight design and daily drivability, foregoing more extreme weight-saving measures like fixed carbon seats or louder exhausts to preserve comfort and usability typical of the Bentley brand.