Bentley Continental Gt
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about experiencing the pinnacle of grand touring luxury? The Bentley Continental GT might be exactly what you’re looking for. This extraordinary blend of craftsmanship, performance, and prestige represents everything that makes Bentley special, wrapped in one of the most recognisable silhouettes in automotive history. It’s the car for discerning drivers who demand the very best without compromise.

From the moment you see it, the Continental GT commands attention with its muscular stance and elegant proportions. This isn’t just transportation, it’s automotive art that rivals like the Aston Martin DB11 or Ferrari Roma simply can’t match for sheer presence. The hand-crafted interior showcases centuries of British luxury expertise, with materials and attention to detail that make every journey feel special. You get the sense that every surface has been meticulously considered and crafted by master artisans.

Driving the Continental GT is an experience like no other. Whether powered by the refined V8 or thunderous W12 engine, it delivers breathtaking performance with whisper-quiet refinement. It handles beautifully despite its substantial presence, offering both exhilarating speed and supreme comfort on long journeys. While the investment is significant, you’re paying for unmatched luxury, timeless design, and the prestige of owning one of the world’s most desirable grand tourers.

What's the Bentley Continental GT Like to Drive?

The Bentley Continental GT offers two exceptional powertrains, both delivering remarkable performance. The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 produces 542 bhp, launching this elegant grand tourer from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. For ultimate power, the 6.0-litre W12 delivers 626 bhp and reaches 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. Both engines provide effortless acceleration with refinement that puts many competitors to shame.

Where the Continental GT truly excels is in its ability to be both thrilling and serene. The advanced air suspension adapts instantly to road conditions, providing comfort that rivals the finest luxury saloons. Despite weighing over two tonnes, it handles with surprising agility thanks to active anti-roll bars and all-wheel drive. The steering is precise and confidence-inspiring, while the brakes provide tremendous stopping power. This makes it equally at home cruising motorways or tackling winding country roads with remarkable composure.

How Comfortable Is the Bentley Continental GT?

Step inside and you’re greeted by one of the finest interiors ever created. The Continental GT’s cabin is a masterclass in luxury, featuring hand-stitched leather, genuine wood veneers, and knurled metal controls that feel substantial and perfectly weighted. The famous rotating display can show either traditional analogue gauges, a touchscreen, or plain wood veneer. Every surface feels special, from the diamond-quilted seats to the soft-close controls.

The front seats are supremely comfortable with extensive adjustment and massage functions as standard. The cabin is incredibly quiet, with triple-sealed doors and acoustic glass creating a serene environment even at high speeds. Rear passengers enjoy surprising space for a grand tourer, though it’s best suited for two adults on shorter journeys. The latest infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and a premium Naim audio system that delivers concert-hall quality sound. Climate control is virtually silent and incredibly effective, maintaining perfect comfort in all conditions.

The Bentley Continental GT represents the absolute pinnacle of grand touring luxury. It successfully combines breathtaking performance with unmatched comfort and craftsmanship that few manufacturers can rival. The attention to detail is extraordinary, from the hand-stitched leather to the precision of every control. It offers a driving experience that’s both thrilling and refined, making every journey feel special. The trade-offs are significant running costs and limited rear passenger space for extended journeys. It’s also not the sharpest sports car to drive, but that’s not its purpose. Its purpose is to provide the ultimate in luxury grand touring, and it achieves this with remarkable success. If you can afford the substantial investment and appreciate the finest automotive craftsmanship, the Continental GT is virtually without equal in its class.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Bentley Continental GT?

Owning a Continental GT requires serious financial commitment beyond the substantial purchase price. Fuel economy ranges from 22-26 mpg in real-world conditions, meaning regular visits to premium fuel stations will be expensive. Insurance costs are significant due to the high value and performance, though many owners consider this a minor consideration given the overall investment.

The initial purchase price starts around £180,000 for the V8, rising to over £200,000 for the W12 with options. Servicing must be carried out by Bentley specialists, with costs reflecting the complex engineering and premium materials. However, luxury car finance options can make ownership more accessible. Depreciation is inevitable but typically less steep than many supercars, and the Continental GT’s timeless appeal helps maintain strong residual values compared to more exotic rivals.

Is the Bentley Continental GT Practical for Everyday Use?

For such an exotic grand tourer, the Continental GT is surprisingly practical for daily use. The 358-litre boot easily accommodates weekend luggage for two, and the rear seats can be folded to extend cargo space for longer items. Storage throughout the cabin is well thought out, with useful compartments for personal items and excellent cup holders that secure drinks perfectly even during spirited driving.

Where the Continental GT shows its limits is in rear passenger space and running costs. While adults can travel in the back for shorter journeys, legroom is tight for taller passengers on longer trips. For couples or small families who prioritise luxury over maximum practicality, the Continental GT offers enough space for most situations. Compared to other used Bentley cars, it strikes an excellent balance between performance and everyday usability, making it surprisingly liveable as a primary vehicle.

The Bentley Continental GT stands as the ultimate expression of British luxury and automotive excellence. It wraps exceptional performance, unmatched craftsmanship, and timeless elegance into a package that few cars can rival. While the investment is substantial, you’re paying for centuries of expertise and attention to detail that’s immediately apparent in every aspect of the car.

You choose the Continental GT because you want the very best grand tourer money can buy. Its combination of devastating performance and supreme luxury makes every journey memorable, whether crossing continents or simply driving to dinner. If you’re looking for the pinnacle of automotive luxury and can appreciate true craftsmanship, the Continental GT should be at the very top of your list, especially with car finance making such excellence more accessible.