2013 BENTLEY Continental GT Photos, engines & full specs

The 2013 Continental GT 4-seat coupe builds on the success of its iconic predecessor, capturing that GT spirit but with even higher standards of design, engineering, luxury, craftsmanship, dynamic performance, everyday practicality, and refinement.

A beautifully sculptured new body gives the Bentley Continental GT coupe an even crisper, more defined appearance. The contemporary interior offers new levels of cabin design, comfort, and hand-crafted luxury.

As with any Bentley, the Continental GT's cabin features only the finest available materials. From supple leather that covers most surfaces to the rich wood crafted in Bentley's dedicated hand-crafted woodworking shop, the interior is an homage to old-world craftsmanship that truly defines "high class."

In the vintage luxurious, charming cabin, the High-tech convenience contrasts, keeping the Continental GT competitive with its contemporaries. The infotainment touchscreen interface is clear, its operation intuitive and specific for Volkswagen AG engineering, and the instrument panel features a sharp digital display next to refined analog gauges.

The styling is superb. It's classy yet modern. Fit and finish are first-class, as is the attention to detail evident inside and out. How many other manufacturers use double-pane windows? They make the Continental GT almost isolation-chamber quiet inside.

Everything has been done with comfort and style in mind. The subtle nautical accents are a nice and different touch. It's the perfect place for drivers and passengers to spend a long road trip.

The luxury coupe is offered in four versions - GT, GT V8, GT V8 S, and the top model GT Speed, with power deliveries between 507 and 625 hp. The new V8 engine debuts on the 2013 Bentley Continental GT, whipping the W12 in both acceleration and fuel economy.

Performance is according to the car's GT status. With a 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) sprint in under 5 seconds, even for the "smallest” V8 4.0-liter engine and top speeds of 330 kph (202 mph) for the W12 bi-turbo GT Speed, Bentley remained the fastest luxury brand in the world.

We don't think that someone buying a Bentley is concerned about fuel savings, but the V8 version has a cylinder deactivation system for lower fuel consumption. While cruising, the V8 can seamlessly become a V4.

Unfortunately, perfection is a relative definition, even for the best. The Bentley Continental GT has some drawbacks. We must mention the small rear seats and heavy curb weight, making it handle more like a bulky limo than a playful sports car.

With these faults in mind, some competitors are worth consideration. The Aston Martin DB9 handles better, while the Maserati GranTurismo still turns heads with its seductive styling.

The Mercedes-Benz S63 Coupe AMG also merits a look, despite feeling a little less exclusive than a Bentley. At the price of a house, Bentley's exclusivity and high class can not be discussed, being always a choice for those who want a luxurious, exotic, smooth, rewarding, fast, and classy grand tourer.