Well, it's not all-new, but Bentley is about to release an updated and uprated version of its very successful V8-engined Continental GT Coupé and Convertible. While the 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine is often seen as being the lesser brother to the big-bore W12-engined versions, the new S models will narrow that gap dramatically with an increase in both power and performance that has not, claims Bentley, harmed the fuel consumption or emissions.
So, power is up to a robust 528hp while torque swells to a vertiginous 680Nm, which is delivered at a very low 1,700rpm. Still driving all four wheels through ZF's fantastic eight-speed automatic gearbox, the smallest big Bentley can now rocket from 0-100km/h in just 4.5 seconds (or 4.7 seconds if you're driving the Convertible). Top speed is a very licence-unfriendly 309km/h, or 307km/h for the drop-top.
Thanks to such things as low-friction bearings, brake energy recuperation, stop-start and cylinder-deactivation at low throttle openings, all of that performance is achieved while the S Coupé matches the standard V8 Conti GT's fuel economy claims of 26.8mpg and 246g/km CO2 emissions. The S Convertible manages 25.9mpg and 254g/km.
Bentley has modified the suspension to make the S models more aggressively sporty. So the body now sits 10mm closer to the road, while the spring rates are 45 per cent higher at the front and 33 per cent higher at the rear. The suspension bushes and rear anti-roll bar are also stiffer, while the steering has been recalibrated, both mechanically and electronically, to improve feel and response.
Bentley claims that its electronic Continuous Damper Control system means that the extra stiffness and greater agility haven't wrecked the ride quality, while the ESP has been retuned to make it a bit looser in Sport mode. Bentley says that this "provides the spirited driver more opportunity to exploit the full potential of the uprated chassis and increased power." We think that's polite talk for getting the tail out on a wet roundabout, thanks to the 40:60 front:rear four-wheel drive torque split.
The exterior has been touched up a bit to reflect the extra power and more aggressive suspension. There's a blacked-out rear diffuser and that proud Bentley radiator grille is finished in a glossy black. There are side skirts and a front splitter as well as the now-traditional figure-of-eight exhaust pipes. If you were still wondering, there are also V8 S badges on the front wings, the Bentley badge now gets a red centre and there's a contrasting centre-stripe on the inside of the roof.
Commenting on the introduction of the two new S models, Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors, said:
"The Bentley Continental is the definitive grand tourer. Its effortless performance, generous space, handcrafted luxury and all-wheel drive capability take you on a journey in refined style and comfort. Now, for those customers who want even more drama and excitement, the sharper, sporting edge of the new GT V8 S adds a new dimension to the Continental range."
Deliveries start in early 2014.
Anything else?
Seventeen standard paint colours are available for the V8 S while Kingfisher Blue and Monaco Yellow will be the signature colours. Of course, for the full effect, Sir or Madam should possibly think of upgrading to the Mulliner Driving Specification which includes 21-inch glossy black alloys, drilled foot pedals, a jewelled filler cap and quilted, perforated leather seats.