Bentley Continental Supersports: 'Tremendous' hardcore GT thrills critics

Bentley has revealed its hardcore Continental Supersports, which it claims is the "world's fastest" four-door production car.

Under the bonnet sits the standard model's 6.0-litre W12, only Bentley has injected another 74bhp by adding high performance turbos, bringing the total power output to 700bhp and 750lb-ft torque. This helps the 5,027lbs Supersports go from zero to 62mph in 3.5secs and on to a top speed of 209mph.

Bentley has also refined the chassis by including an upgraded version of the Continental GT3-R's torque vectoring system, which individually brakes wheels to maximise power and grip coming out of corners. The all-wheel drive has also been tweaked and distributes 60 per cent of the W12's power to the rear wheels as standard, although this can be modulated by the driver.

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Outside, the Supersports has received lashings of carbon fibre for a sportier aesthetic. The optional front splitter and large rear spoiler generates extra downforce, while the 21ins wheels and optional carbon fibre engine cover add to the racing look.

Owners can also have bespoke interior detailing, including diamond-quilted seats embossed with the Supersports logo and Alcantara highlights on the steering wheel and gearstick.

Reviews

"All Continental GTs are built like Victorian houses and they weigh something similar," Evo says, yet the Supersports manages to "keep its masses in check quite brilliantly".

Crests and jumps are handled with "tremendous body control", the magazine adds, while the chassis balance is "very neutral" considering the large and heavy engine in front of the driver.

Meanwhile, the effects of the improved torque vectoring system are difficult to feel behind the wheel, although the car does have a "certain eagerness on the way into a corner".

It's fast, too, says AutoExpress, as its monstrous amount of torque delivers "shocking" pace no matter what gear it's in. It's also rare to see an engine haul so much weight with the ease of the W12.

The magazine adds that unlike the previous model, the new Supersports retains its rear seats with multi-adjustable reclining chairs in the front, meaning it could be considered as "much more sensible" than its predecessor.

Prices will be around £50,000 more than the standard W12 Continental, starting at "£212,500 for coupes" and "£233,800 for convertibles", AutoExpress says. Orders are open now, with deliveries "expected in the spring".