Bentley, which has been making cars for nearly 100 years, is known for giving its customers a wide range of options in its vehicles—massaging seats, distinguished leathers, and exotic wood trim, for example. But not until recently has the British automaker created a convertible that has a roof made of tweed.
For the first time ever, the Bentley is offering a “contemporary interpretation of traditional British tweed” to those who are fond of the English material and want to jazz up their Continental GT Convertible. It takes just 19 seconds to put down the power-folding soft top as long as you’re travelling less than 30 miles per hour. New insulation and sealing materials keep the car as quiet as a coupe.
“Elegant understatement that forces you to look; engineering excellence you’ll take for granted – the extraordinary breadth of capabilities offered by the new Continental GT Convertible is unique and can only be offered by our noble British brand,” said Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors, in a statement.
Another highlight is the rotating display—a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the center console that can be hidden with the touch of a button. If you want the latest technology but don’t necessarily like looking at it when you’re on the road, the display is easily replaced with one of eight types of wood veneer (such as Koa and Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus). There’s also a compass, temperature gauge, and chronometer for those in an old-school mood. Check out a video of the display here. According to Bentley, it’s meant for those seeking a “digital detox.”
One YouTube user jokingly commented on the feature, which has a bit of a James Bond-like quality: “What, and no rocket launcher controls or targeting system to blow up trucks blocking the way?”
Bentley also upgraded its headrest-embedded neck warmer, making it quieter and more efficient, allowing occupants to better hear the 10-speaker Bose audio system and 18-speaker, 2,200-watt Naim system.
The luxurious, sporty grand tourer has a 6-litre W12 engine with enough power to hit 60 mph in under four seconds. It has a top seed of 207 mph. The Continental GT saves energy by killing the engine at red lights and while coasting.
Customers can choose one of 17 colours, including Beluga, Onyx and Portofino.
Bentley has yet to put a price tag on its latest convertible, but the base price of the coupe is $225,000, so expect it to be steeper than that.
