Wanderlust

Category: Marques

  • Bespoke Bentley Bentayga Hybrids for The Peninsula London

    Bespoke Bentley Bentayga Hybrids for The Peninsula London

    • The Peninsula’s new flagship Belgravia hotel commissions four bespoke Bentayga Hybrid models for guest transportation
    • Bentayga Hybrid chosen for its remarkable quality and comfort, proven sustainability credentials and effortless performance
    • Bespoke Mulliner features and finishes include exterior paintwork in ‘Peninsula Green’ with two-piece coachline in ‘Honey’
    • Interior specification includes Saddle main hide with Beluga secondary hide, Burr Walnut veneer and ‘The Peninsula’ illuminated treadplates 
    • Up to 28 miles range in zero-emission EV mode; ideal for guests exploring London’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone 
    • The Bentayga Hybrids are The Peninsula Hotels’ first luxury hybrid SUV fleet, maintaining its tradition of luxurious transportation.

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – Guests of the new Peninsula London hotel can now experience the company’s legendary luxury even before alighting at the hotel entrance, as they are driven through London in one of the property’s new, bespoke Bentayga Hybrids. Four Bentayga Hybrid SUVs have been commissioned by The Peninsula London to provide luxurious, near-silent transportation for guests, whether within the city’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone or further afield. 

    Bentley’s Bentayga Hybrid is the only hybrid SUV in the bespoke automotive sector and offers a compelling blend of refinement, effortless performance, and cosseting luxury. The combination of 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine, electric motor and 18.0 kWh battery deliver a remarkable spectrum of performance, from the calm of near-silent zero-emission EV mode to powerful open road acceleration. An EV range of up to 28 miles will enable the majority of The Peninsula London’s journeys to be completed without emitting a single gram of CO2. For journeys further afield, the combined output of 462 PS (456 bhp) delivers the effortless performance that Bentley is renowned for. 

    Bespoke specification, executed by Mulliner
    The Peninsula’s exacting specifications were executed by the artisans of Mulliner, Bentley’s personal commissioning division. Finishes and trim were carefully chosen to reflect the Group’s distinctive livery, recognised the world over. Exterior bodywork, roof rails and brightware are finished in Peninsula Green, with the subtlest of two-piece coachlines in Honey. A discreet ‘The Peninsula London’ graphic adorns the front doors. Unique welcome lamps project The Peninsula logo upon the ground to guide guests when the doors are opened. 

    All four Bentayga Hybrids feature the Azure specification, with its emphasis on wellness and comfort. Saddle main hide colour and Beluga secondary hide create an ambience of timeless serenity; the seat backs feature ‘wellness quilting’, while the deep gloss of Burr Walnut veneer provides a tactile and visual contrast to the soft sheen of the hide. Veneered picnic tables and individual entertainment screens are provided for each of the rear compartment’s passengers. Bentley mood lighting and Signature audio system provide atmosphere and entertainment. 

    For the comfort and convenience of its guests, The Peninsula London also specified bespoke metal badges across the interior denoting bespoke areas for tissues and used refreshment towels in the rear doors, stowage for periodical magazines in the front seat backs, and notifications inviting guests not to smoke. Additional USB sockets, and bespoke ‘The Peninsula’ illuminated treadplates complete the cabin.

    A shared commitment to excellence
    The latest addition to The Peninsula Hotel’s portfolio, The Peninsula London is located in the heart of Belgravia and is a showcase for the best of British craftsmanship and design. The Peninsula London’s choice of Bentley’s Bentayga Hybrid for its liveried fleet confirms the two companies’ shared commitment to the highest standards of luxury. Guests will be able to settle into the welcoming comfort of Bentley’s hand-crafted, flawless hide upholstery for their journey while the landmarks of London spool silently past. 

    Sonja Vodusek, Managing Director of The Peninsula London comments: “The Peninsula is known for its global collection of impeccable bespoke vehicles, and Bentley makes a natural fit with our standards and ethos. As a brand, Bentley has a remarkable heritage of British design and craftsmanship, yet the Bentayga Hybrid shows the company is meeting the challenges of the future with confidence. Sustainability and enlightened luxury matter to The Peninsula Hotels and we welcome Bentley’s luxury hybrids to The Peninsula London’s fleet.”

    About The Peninsula London     
    Ideally situated in the heart of Belgravia, with views over Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, The Peninsula London occupies one of the city’s most prestigious addresses. The newly built hotel, impeccably designed to harmonise with surrounding heritage buildings is just moments away from the city’s most iconic attractions, including Three Royal Parks, Buckingham Palace, Harrods, and Big Ben. Its 190 light-filled guest rooms and suites have been exquisitely designed by Peter Marino; its gathering spaces include several world-class restaurants and bars, including Brooklands helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Director Claude Bosi; the idyllic Peninsula Spa, and a luxury retail arcade.
    www.peninsula.com

    Bentayga Hybrid WLTP drive cycle: fuel consumption, mpg (l/100km) – Combined 94.2 (3.0). Combined CO₂ – 68g/km.

  • Bentley Customers Personalize Their Cars More than Ever in 2023

    Bentley Customers Personalize Their Cars More than Ever in 2023

    • Bentley Motors delivers 13,560 extraordinary cars in 2023 – the third highest on record
    • More customers choosing personalisation than ever before – increased by 43 per cent over 2022 
    • Mixed regional performance as demand weakens in some markets due to external factors
    • Luxury SUV Bentayga remains highest selling model, accounting for 44 per cent of total sales, following introduction of Extended Wheelbase (EWB) 
    • Bentley’s home market in the UK becomes proportionally biggest selling hybrid region, with almost a third sold selected as hybrid

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – Bentley Motors achieved its third best ever year in 2023 with global sales of 13,560 luxury cars. Although an 11 per cent decrease on 2022, Bentley’s best ever result, interest in luxury personalisation reached higher levels than before. Around three-quarters of customers went beyond the 46 billion different configurations available from the standard options range to add bespoke content from Bentley’s Mulliner division, representing a 43 per cent rise over 2022, an indication of the desire for truly unique exclusivity in the luxury industry.

    Customers were also increasingly attracted to higher revenue models such as Azure, S and Speed, the mix of which reached 70 per cent up from 30 per cent in 2022. The Bentayga Extended Wheelbase also exceeded expectations reaching more than a third of the company’s SUV orders in its first full-year on sale.

    Bentley’s range of hybrid vehicles remained popular, with the UK being the leading market with one in four Flying Spur and Bentayga customers choosing the hybrid option.

    Looking at regional performance, difficult market conditions persisted and although there was positive growth in Asia Pacific (5 per cent up) and the Middle East, India and Africa (2 per cent up), key markets such as China and the UK declined by 18 per cent in both cases. 

    The trend for SUV buying continued as Bentayga remained Bentley’s number one model, accounting for 44 per cent of total sales and reinforcing its position as the most successful luxury SUV in the world. Furthermore, consistent appeal continued for the Continental GT and GT Convertible, accounting for nearly a third of sales, 31 per cent, with the Flying Spur, the world’s finest luxury four-door grand tourer, reaching 25 per cent of total sales.

    In spite of challenging conditions in key regions around the world, the Americas maintained its position as the biggest selling global market. Interestingly, Bentley’s home market in the UK is now the number one selling region for hybrid models by proportion, with 27 per cent of sales in 2023 selected as a hybrid option.

    Commenting on the global sales results, Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, said:

    “The luxury market was not immune from the challenging market conditions seen around the world in the second half of 2023 and despite this we were able to deliver our third highest retail position in history and enter 2024 with a strong order bank. Building on this, our quality of sales was much greater, with significant increases in our higher value derivatives, and a significant growth in demand for bespoke personalisation.

    “We remain cautiously optimistic for the year ahead, with a continued robust global demand by market and model, high levels of interest in our hybrid models and with more to follow this year.”
      
    Regional performance 

    Market2023 (sales)2022 (sales)2023 (% of total sales)
    Americas3,848(-9%)4,22128%
    Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macao3,006(-18%)3,65522%
    Europe2,376(-15%)2,80918%
    Asia Pacific2,123(+5%)2,03116%
    United Kingdom1,218(-18%)1,4909%
    Middle East, India and Africa989(+2%)9687%
    Total13,560(-11%)15,174100%


    *Bentley ended the year with 235 retailers in 63 countries.

  • Final Mulsanne Adds a Royal Touch to Bentley Heritage Collection

    Final Mulsanne Adds a Royal Touch to Bentley Heritage Collection

    • The last Mulsanne to be built comes home to Crewe, after service with Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
    • Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase commissioned by the Queen, in Barnato paint with a Twine and Cumbrian Green interior
    • Joins Bentley’s Heritage Collection, to live alongside the second production Mulsanne built (2010) and pinnacle Mulsanne Speed (2019)
    • Unique interior features – including a custom cubby for a handbag – define a cherished vehicle
    • The Heritage Collection now comprises 45 cars spanning the company’s 104-year history

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England –  Bentley Motors today announces the most recent and prestigious addition to its rejuvenated Heritage Collection – a bespoke 2020 Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase, the final example of the Mulsanne handcrafted at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, which has now returned home after service with the Royal household.

    The last Mulsanne was commissioned by, and built for, Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and includes a range of bespoke features to ensure the car was fit for royal duties. The starting point was an exterior in solid Barnato green (barnatogreen; metallic UNI; 6602 / 9561028 / LK6A; Bentley), paired with an interior in Twine and Cumbrian hide, Burr Walnut wood veneers and deep lambswool carpets. To this, the specification added rear privacy curtains and the Royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom inlaid into the door waistrails, while the front centre armrests were removed in lieu of a custom-sized tray to accommodate the Queen’s handbag. 

    Discretely concealed blue police lights, a siren and a bullhorn were also installed, with a dedicated switch panel hidden beneath a walnut-veneered door behind the gear lever. 

    Bentley’s famous 537PS 6.75-litre V8 engine, 21” alloy wheels and chrome brightware for the grille and front wing vents and the iconic Flying B complete the car, which will be retained as the third and final Mulsanne in Bentley’s Heritage Collection. It will join the second Mulsanne ever built, VIN 0002 from 2010, and a 2019 Mulsanne Speed that previously saw service on Bentley’s press fleet. The three Mulsannes are part of an expanded 45-car Collection, 2.5 years into a three-year programme to completely rebuild a family of cars that together explain and describe Bentley’s 104-year history.

    A History of Mulsanne

    Launched at Pebble Beach in 2009, the Mulsanne was developed from scratch, housing a new variant of Bentley’s 6.75-litre V8 engine, a new chassis, as well as new exterior and interior designs.

    In 2016, a new Mulsanne was launched at the Geneva Motor Show, with the car further raising the standards of luxury with a redesigned interior – featuring new seats, door trims, armrests, navigation technology and a brand new infotainment system. The front end of the car was also upgraded with new grilles, lights and a new bonnet.

    Alongside the new Mulsanne in 2016, Bentley also launched the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase, with a 250 mm extension of the Mulsanne’s footprint enabling space for an ornate folding table, centre console, electronic leg-rests and privacy curtains to deliver the best in class luxury experience for the rear-seat passengers.

    Bidding farewell to the Mulsanne in 2020, the final 30 series production cars formed the unique ‘6.75 Edition by Mulliner’, with the name derived from the car’s legendary 6.75-litre engine – which also came to the end of production alongside the Mulsanne after more than 60 years.

    The Mulsanne was in production for over a decade, with each of the 7,300 cars handcrafted at Bentley’s factory in Crewe.

    The Bentley Heritage Collection

    Bentley’s Heritage Collection now consists of 45 cars, from the oldest Bentley in the world (the 1919 3-Litre EXP2) through to the 2021 Continental GT Speed, with some of the most extraordinary Bentleys ever made representing every decade of the company’s 104-year history. 37 road registered, road legal cars describe the development of the Bentley model range over the same period, bolstered by eight of the most famous motorsport and record-breaking vehicles – including three Speed 8s, both generations of Continental GT3, and Pikes Peak and Ice Speed Record cars.

    All of the cars in the Heritage Collection are maintained and on display at Bentley’s carbon neutral Dream Factory in Crewe, England. Customers, VIPs, media guests and Bentley colleagues are all able to view the company’s history through the Collection as part of the factory tour experience.

  • Bentley Zurich Celebrates Centenary with a Mulliner Anniversary Collection

    Bentley Zurich Celebrates Centenary with a Mulliner Anniversary Collection

    • Special Bentley Mulliner 100 Anniversary Collection to celebrate the centenary of Bentley retail partner in Zurich 
    • Luxury quartet based on Bentayga S, Flying Spur Speed, Continental GT and GTC Speed models
    • Limited Edition models are result of a collaboration with Mulliner who worked on a co-creation with unique features: exterior colour, treadplates, ‘100’ welcome lamps and embroidered ‘100’ headrest emblems
    • Anniversary coincides with important moment in Bentley history
    • Bentley Zurich has been operated by Schmohl AG since 1950

    [source: Bentley]

    Münich, Germany –  Bentley Motors is celebrating the centenary of its retail partner in Zurich, Schmohl AG, with a quartet of luxury cars. The uniquely-styled 100 Anniversary Collection is based on four Bentley models – the Bentayga S luxury SUV, the Flying Spur Speed four-door sedan, as well as the Continental GT and GTC Speed definitive grand tourers.

    Each example is handcrafted in Crewe, England, by Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house personalisation and bespoke department. For the 100 Anniversary Collection range, Mulliner has developed a new Slate Blue Metallic exterior paint and matching Slate Blue Metallic Styling Specification, with personalised ‘100’ welcome lamps. The Flying Spur Speed, GT and GTC Speed examples also benefit from a bootlid spoiler. Personalised ‘100’ welcome lamps greet both driver and passengers as they step in or out of the 100 Anniversary Collection models.

    Inside each exquisitely appointed cabin, the 100 Anniversary Collection cars are crafted with Cognac main hide and Beluga secondary hide, with Diamond Quilt contrast stitching. Personalised embroidered ‘100’ headrest emblems adorn the seats, while Piano Black over Copper Stone dual finish veneer complements the dashboard and doors, with Diamond Knurling Specification to brightwork as standard. 

    Talking about the centenary, Roderick Pike, General Manager of Bentley Zurich, explains: 

    “A centenary is a key milestone and a special celebration. Schmohl AG was formed in 1923, the same year the Bentley 3 Litre became the brand’s first car to compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, setting the fastest lap in the process. The new 100 Anniversary Collection cars reflect a proud partnership with Bentley, offering unique features to honour our special relationship.”

    Balazs Rooz, Regional Director of Bentley Motors Europe, added:

    “We are delighted to be celebrating this milestone with Bentley Zurich who have been with us since 1950. Switzerland is an important market for Bentley Motors Europe and with this collection we honour and highlight our achievements over the years. At the same time, with our Beyond100 strategy we are also looking forward towards an electrified range by 2024.”

  • Bentley Presents Mulliner Styling Packages for Latest Continental GT V8 Models in Europe

    Bentley Presents Mulliner Styling Packages for Latest Continental GT V8 Models in Europe

    • Five unique “Curated by Mulliner” styling packages celebrate the individualization of the ultimate Bentley Continental GT – the last Grand Tourer with a V8 engine
    • The new packages include special exterior colors that are tailored to either the performance or the Luxury specification
    • The Mulliner styling packages further refine the Continental GT and enable even more individual equipment of the vehicles

    [source: Bentley]

    (Munich, 24. October 2023)

    Bentley Motors Europe has announced that the order of derivatives of the Continental GT and GTC with the V8 engine will be completed by mid-November. This is in line with the Beyond100 strategy, which provides that by 2025, a hybrid option will be available for each model series. The V8 engine is still available in other markets. To mark this milestone, the designers of Mulliner have created impressive design themes that underline the positioning of the S and Azure derivatives that can be configured as additional equipment for the latest Continental GT V8s.

    The five interior packages “Curated by Mulliner” reflect the strong customer demand for a custom design of the Continental GT and represent a unique opportunity to give Bentley’s ultimate Grand Tourer a personal touch. Inspired by vivid color accents found in nature, these special packages are available to Bentley customers in Europe – the Continental GT region.

    The styling packages were put together by Bentley’s finishing department Mulliner, based in Crewe, England. They are available for all model variants of the Continental GT V8 and Continental GTC V8 – including the comfort-oriented Azure and performance-oriented S. Customers can supplement the selected styling package for the interior with a colour-matched styling package for the exterior.

    The “Curated by Mulliner” styling packages take into account the ongoing demand from Bentley customers for a custom design of their vehicles – a trend that has become increasingly popular since the introduction of the first Continental GT 20 years ago. Each styling package should inspire the customer to create his very own dream version of the Continental GT. The dynamic colours Key Lime, Vivid Red, Mandarin, Klein Blue and Turquoise are offered. Each styling package can be complemented with additional options to complement Bentley’s ultimate
    Grand Tourer even further.

    Each of the five packages is based on a motif from nature. Key Lime was inspired by lively citrus pigments that invigorate the interior of the vehicle. Designed for the performance-oriented models GT S and GTC S, Vivid Red is based on the tin-red pigments obtained in the Aeolian landscapes. Mandarin, on the other hand, testifies to the rich shades that can be found in spectacular areas such as the Icelandic Magmac craters or the Namib desert. Klein Blue fits perfectly with the well-being-oriented Azure models and goes back to nuances abstracted from elements of hypernature. Finally, Turquoise refers to the cyan-blue depths of the Icelandic seas and the radiance of the Aurora Borealis at night.

    Distinctive color accents from the styling packages tastefully emphasize key elements in the interior of each of the “Curated by Mulliner” vehicles. These elements include the contrasting steering wheel spokes or the gear lever, rounded off by colour-matched contrasting lines on the handcrafted veneer. The seats, held in Mulliner color combinations, are harmoniously complemented by Mulliner floor mats with contrasting micro-keeds in the chosen accent color. Passengers are welcomed by a welcome light “Curated by Mulliner” in the Continental GT when boarding and disembarking. The optional styling package for the exterior, which is only available in conjunction with the styling package for the interior, continues the chosen color theme with accent lines on exterior mirrors and body kit.

    The “Curated by Mulliner” styling packages further refine the interior. A diamond kerling gives the metal elements of the dashboard a jewel-like look, while the “Mood Lighting Specification” allows the color and intensity of the lighting in the interior to be controlled.

    The Bentley Rotating Display offers three different instrument variants to choose from. In addition, the styling packages also include chrome-plated kee on the instrument panel and an LED welcome light as well as – for the S version of the Continental GT and the Continental GTC – also a “Leather Specification”. The styling package for the exterior is emphasized by the “Styling Specification” as well as by self-aligning wheel emblems.

  • Trio of Bentley Models Take Center Stage at the Zoute Grand Prix on the Belgian Riviera

    Trio of Bentley Models Take Center Stage at the Zoute Grand Prix on the Belgian Riviera

    • Limited Edition Flying Spur Speed Edition 12 celebrates end of an era for Bentley’s iconic W12 engine 
    • Final Speed Edition 12 cars feature unique fascia engine display and commemorative scale model of legendary W12 engine
    • Bentayga EWB First Edition and Continental GTC Mulliner V8 also displayed at Belgian Riviera event

    [source: Bentley]

    Münich, Germany – Bentley Brussels, Knokke and Antwerp will showcase one of the final vehicles to be fitted with the luxury British automotive brand’s legendary W12 engine at the Zoute Grand Prix, a week-long series of exclusive automotive activities held on the Belgian Riviera. 

    The full Bentley range will be displayed at the Prado, a Bentayga EWB, a Continental GTC as well as a Flying Spur Speed Edition 12. The Flying Spur Speed Edition 12 is one of the only 120 examples to be built, a supremely powerful sedan that pays homage to Bentley’s 6.0-litre W12 unit, which is due to end production in 2024 and ordering in a few weeks in Europe.

    The W12 engine ensures the Flying Spur Speed 12 is one of the fastest, four-door sedans in the world. Capable of 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 333 km/h, the phenomenal W12 also produces 659 PS and 900 Nm of torque. First introduced in the original Continental GT in 2003, the engine has since become an icon of Bentley’s DNA.

    A genuine collector’s car, the Flying Spur Speed 12 Edition is also afforded a range of unique commemorative features. The dashboard fascia displays a visual representation of the W12’s firing sequence, while every owner will receive a scale model of the engine, handcrafted from a genuine recycled W12 block and housed in a special presentation case. A full-size example of a W12 engine itself will be on show alongside the Flying Spur Speed Edition 12.

    Bentley will also showcase the Bentayga EWB First Edition V8, in eye-catching Pale Brodgar (palebrodgar; metallic UNI; 6754 / 9560180; Bentley) over Brodgar (brodgar; metallic UNI; 6753 / 9560179; Bentley) two-tone paintwork. Inside, the luxurious SUV features a colour split interior of Portland and Burnt Oak hide, with Dark Stained Burr Walnut veneer. A Continental GT Convertible Mulliner V8 will complete the trio of Bentley models. This open-air tourer is painted in Onyx, complemented by a Cambric lightweight cotton interior in Linen, with contrasting Beluga hide, finished with a Grand Black with Diamond Milled trim.

    All visitors are welcome to the Bentley stand at the Zoute Grand Prix in Knokke-Heist, Belgium, which is taking place from October 5 – 8.

    Bentley is represented in Belgium by D’Ietern Luxury Performance Group and operates from Bentley Antwerp, Bentley Brussels and Bentley Knokke.

  • One-of-One Bentley GT Speed Celebrates 20 Years of Continental Success at Monterey Car Week

    One-of-One Bentley GT Speed Celebrates 20 Years of Continental Success at Monterey Car Week

    • Mulliner creates a modern interpretation of the original Continental GT
    • Unique car brings 20th birthday celebrations to a close
    • 2023 Continental GT Speed inspired by the specification of the very first production Continental GT from 2003
    • One-of-one car sold to American collector
    • Both cars displayed at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering as part of Monterey Car Week
    • Celebratory ‘baton’ starts 20-stop global tour, connecting 20 individual Continental GT reviews

    Crewe, England – Bentley Motors brought the 20th birthday celebrations of its now-iconic Continental GT to a close with the reveal and immediate sale of a one-of-one Continental GT Speed, with a specification inspired by that of the very first production Continental GT from 2003. The muse for the project – VIN20001, the first GT off the Crewe production line – was displayed alongside the 2023 version at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, also celebrating its 20th birthday and an ongoing part of Monterey Car Week.

    Having redefined the Bentley brand for the 21st century when it was launched in 2003, catalysing a ten-fold increase in sales, the Continental GT continues to be the benchmark for modern, luxury grand tourers. The first production car – the most important modern car in Bentley’s rejuvenated Heritage Collection – was finished in Cypress Green (cypressgreen; metallic UNI; 6604 / 9560119; Bentley) paint, with an interior of Saddle leather upholstery and Burr Walnut veneer. The bespoke 2023 Continental GT Speed displays a specially commissioned interior inspired by that of its illustrious forbear.

    While Saddle leather and Burr Walnut veneer feature in both cabins, the third-generation model features subtle enhancements of the original model’s theme. The rich Saddle colour is complemented by an accent hide in ‘Special Green’, with contrast stitching in the same shade throughout. The fascia and waist rails feature two different veneer finishes – open pore Dark Burr Walnut over high gloss Dark Burr Walnut – separated by a painted pinstripe in Cypress, connecting the interior with the exterior.

    An extensive list of features includes the Blackline, Touring and Styling Specifications – together bringing polished black exterior brightware, a suite of technical enhancements and a carbon fibre front splitter, side skirts, diffuser and subtle boot lip spoiler respectively. Self-levelling Mulliner wheel badges finished the 22” Sports Wheels in unique Dark Grey Satin. The interior features Naim for Bentley audio and the Bentley Rotating Display, while the personalised treadplates read, ’20 years of the Continental GT by Bentley Mulliner’. Outline representations of the 2003 and 2023 Continental GTs feature on the fascia, centre console and outer sill. This celebratory one-of-one car has already been sold, was handed to its new owner at The Quail, and represents the highlight of four months of activities and events to celebrate this milestone in Bentley’s history.

    20 Years and three generations

    The impact of the first-generation Continental GT was seismic, not only redefining Bentley as a modern luxury brand but also creating a new market sector. The first all-new Bentley with no carried-over components since the original 3 Litre of 2019, the Continental GT was designed at the Crewe studio under then Design Director Dirk van Braeckel and Head of Exterior Design Raul Pires. The sleek lines of Bentley’s new grand tourer were inspired by those of the 1952 R Type Continental, with a Bentley ‘powerline’ that starts low at the front and follows the shoulder line of the bonnet and door before meeting a muscular rear haunch. Twin round headlamps and a Bentley mesh grille gave a subtle nod to the company’s thunderous Le Mans-winning racers of the 1920s.

    Under the bonnet was an all-new 6.0-litre twin-turbo 48-valve W12 engine. This compact, smooth and powerful design developed 550 bhp and 650 Nm, powering all four wheels via a ZF six-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0-62 mph took 4.8 seconds and top speed was a shade under 200 mph.

    During the seven years the first-generation Continental GT remained in production it sired a family of models including the Continental GT Convertible, Continental Flying Spur, Continental GT Speed and Supersports.

    Arrival of the V8

    The second-generation Continental GT, launched in 6.0-litre W12 form at the Paris Motor Show in 2010, also saw the arrival of a second all-new Bentley engine. The efficient and charismatic 4.0-litre V8, which made its debut in 2012, endowed the Continental GT with an eager, agile and responsive character, accompanied by a characterful V8 exhaust backbeat. In 2017 the line-up was joined by the limited edition 710PS Supersports, its conception inspired by the Team Bentley racing GT3.

    2018: the third generation

    Bentley’s third generation Continental GT was launched in 2018. An entirely new design, its sharper, sleeker lines took full advantage of a new, purpose-designed platform. Even its W12 engine was all-new, paired with a new dual-clutch transmission. Highlights of the new model’s specification included three-chamber air springs and 48V electric active anti-roll control, while the on-board technology took a major leap forward thanks to all-new electrical architecture. It was simultaneously faster, more comfortable, more efficient and more luxurious than its predecessors – yet unmistakably still a Continental GT.

    Around the world in 20 reviews

    A Bentley ‘baton’, designed and created in house to represent the key lines of the Continental GT, visited Monterey to start a global journey – travelling in a variety of Continental GT models across Europe, the Middle East, China, Asia Pacific and the US before returning to Crewe. At journey’s end at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, the baton – which will contain 20 mementoes of the tour – will become a time capsule as a permanent reminder of a unique journey.

  • Porsche Teams up with Backdrop to Bring an Array of Colors to Your Home

    Porsche Teams up with Backdrop to Bring an Array of Colors to Your Home

    Atlanta. Bringing historic Porsche paint colors into your home for the first time, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA) today announced a unique collaboration with premium paint brand, Backdrop, to inspire unique interior designs. Coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the very first Porsche taking to the road, the two brands, each defined by their use of color, have selected the following assortment of vibrant colors from several eras of Porsche sports cars:

    • Irish Green: First seen in 1964 on a 356C sports car, the dark hunter green shade is also one of the first colors to grace the Porsche 911. It’s a color as timeless as the sports car itself.
    • Speed Yellow: This vibrant yellow first appeared on the Porsche 911 in 1991. Not for the shy or Sunday driver, the color is distinctly tied to the sports car and the Porsche brand.
    • Ruby Star: Dating back to 1991 and seen on Porsche 911, 928 and 944 models over the years, Ruby Star is a deep magenta red that is distinct, bold and joyous.
    • Riviera Blue: An electric bright blue, the head-turning and audacious color was developed in 1994 and has been seen on the 911, 928, and 968 models.

    The collection will be available exclusively at www.backdrophome.com/Porsche starting today through the end of the year.

    “Individualization is at the core of Porsche. Whether it’s a custom-built Taycan or your home office, we want to inspire all to dream in full color,” said Ayesha Coker, Vice President of Marketing of PCNA. “Together with Backdrop, we’ve curated a series of bright, saturated colors that have significance to us and are sure to bring the beloved Porsche aesthetic to your home interior design.”

    Porsche currently offers 180 shades through its Paint to Sample program, with the option to specify a totally bespoke color from a much wider pallet through Paint to Sample Plus, which requires extensive feasibility testing. These colors are in addition to the wide selection of paint choices Porsche already offers on its vehicles, including several non-metallic colors, and additional metallic colors.

    “Everything we do at Backdrop centers around our love of color. Naturally, we jumped at the chance to work with an iconic brand like Porsche, which has always been synonymous with its bold, statement-making color palette,” said Natalie Ebel, Co-Founder of Backdrop. “It has been an absolute dream come true to collaborate with Porsche, especially during its 75th anniversary year, and to be inspired by its rich history. I am incredibly excited to translate our shared love of design and spirit of self-expression into a collection that will take on new life in our homes and on our walls.”

    The four-piece collection will be available in a custom-designed, co-branded collectible paint can with a limited-edition Porsche 75 leather key chain. It will retail for $75 for a gallon at www.backdrophome.com/Porsche.

    Backdrop Affiliate ID: Pepperjam/Skimlinks 131940

    About Backdrop

    Created by husband and wife duo Natalie & Caleb Ebel, Backdrop is The New Way to Paint. The company has transformed the whole process of painting from start to finish – from curating the perfect color palette to sourcing the highest quality supplies. Backdrop offers premium, Green Wise certified, and low-VOC paints that come in beautifully redesigned, award-winning paint cans, 12×12’’ removable adhesive samples, the highest quality supplies, and a perfectly curated palette of 75+ colors – all quickly delivered to your door. Since its launch in November 2018, each Backdrop sale has contributed to the International Rescue Committee, which helps displaced families in some of the most challenging places in the world, and in 2020 Backdrop became the first Climate Neutral certified paint company. 

    In 2021, Backdrop was acquired by renowned luxury design house F. Schumacher & Co (FSCO) and joined the company’s stable of global design brands, which includes Schumacher, the legendary textile and wallpaper brand founded in 1889; Patterson Flynn Martin, the luxury rug and carpet brand; and Frederic, Learn more at www.backdrophome.com and @backdrop.

    About Porsche Cars North America, Inc. | One Porsche Drive, Atlanta, GA 30354 USA

    Established in 1984, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA) is the exclusive U.S. importer of the Porsche 911, 718 Boxster, 718 Cayman, Macan, Cayenne, Panamera and Taycan. The Porsche Car Configurator can be used by anyone to customize and pre-order any vehicle in that lineup at any time. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1998, PCNA is home to the first Porsche Experience Center in North America, which features two module-based 1.6 mile driver development tracks, a business center and Restaurant 356. The campus is also home to the U.S. headquarters of Porsche Classic. The company operates a second Porsche Experience Center near Los Angeles. That complex features a driver development track with eight educational modules totaling 4.1 miles, a business center, Restaurant 917 and the headquarters of Porsche Motorsport North America. PCNA supports 202 independently owned and operated Porsche dealerships in the U.S., four Porsche studios and five satellite stores in the U.S., including supplying parts, service, marketing, and training. They, in turn, work to provide Porsche customers with a best-in-class experience that is in keeping with the Porsche brand’s 75-year history of leadership in the advancement of vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency. PCNA is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Porsche AG, which is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany.*

    At the core of this success is Porsche’s proud racing heritage that boasts some 30,000-plus motorsport wins to date.

    Photos and video footage are available to accredited journalists on the Porsche Press Database and on the Porsche Cars North America Newsroom.

    Follow us: x.com/porsche | facebook.com/PorscheUSAOfficial | instagram.com/porscheusa |
    facebook.com/PECAtlanta | instagram.com/pecatl | facebook.com/pecla | instagram.com/pecla

  • Bentley Batur Completes Development Program

    Bentley Batur Completes Development Program

    • Brace of Baturs complete whole vehicle development programme
    • Two cars combine for 58 weeks of total durability work
    • Batur’s W12 engine completes two-year development and test regime
    • Tests included more than 30,000 kilometres of real world driving in varied conditions
    • More than 800 parts exclusive to Batur – all tested to the highest standards of durability
    • 750 PS W12 Batur will be the most powerful Bentley to date – the ultimate grand tourer 
    • Personal commissioning of 18 customer cars continues

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England –  Bentley’s ultimate grand tourer, the coachbuilt Batur by Mulliner, has completed its whole vehicle development programme, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of performance and durability. Work now commences on the build of customer cars, each of which will feature an exceptional level of bespoke craftsmanship and take around four months to handcraft – with the last one to be completed at the end of 2024.

    Following on from the creation of two development vehicles (known as Car Zero and Car Zero-Zero), just 18 Batur customer cars will be produced by hand in the Mulliner workshops. However, no concession has been made in Bentley’s rigorous testing regime, which includes durability tests on handling tracks, real-world road conditions, high speed testing beyond 200 mph, and rough surfaces. Other tests included 600 hours of solar loading, equivalent to five years in an Arizona desert, to ensure that the sustainable materials used in the Batur’s construction will be robust enough to endure a lifetime’s use.

    The original development Batur – Car Zero 

    Car Zero is no ordinary development mule. It was built to the same levels of craftsmanship as each of the 18 customer cars to come. Its bespoke exterior finish, Purple Sector, is complemented by front splitters, side skirts and rear diffuser in a high gloss natural fibre finish. The main matrix grille in Gloss Dark Titanium is accented with contrast chevrons in a horizontal ombré pattern that flows from Purple Sector in the centre, gradually darkening to Black Crystal at the periphery. The ‘endless bonnet’ line is finished in Satin Titanium, as are the 22” wheels which feature spokes in Gloss and Satin Black Crystal.

    A second development Batur, Engineering Car Zero-Zero, is finished in the equally striking Marina Teal finish. These bespoke finishes, and new components such as the one-off LED headlamp units, faced a series of tough durability tests, which included a 2,500 km European tour, high speed testing at closed circuits, and extended exposure to the harshest environments. In total, over 800 unique and one-off components have been tested and proved in 160 simultaneous weeks of intensive development work.

    The most powerful Bentley to date

    The W12 engine that powers Batur can trace its origins back to the Continental GT of 2003. The W12 has both literally and figuratively powered Bentley’s ascent to the pinnacle of automotive luxury brands. It has continued to evolve, becoming more powerful, refined and efficient with each successive generation. Now, as Bentley begins its journey to full electrification, the Batur’s W12 represents a celebration of this remarkable engine as well as its swansong. Its 750PS peak output makes it the most powerful W12 and therefore the most powerful Bentley powertrain ever built. Its new air intake system, modified turbochargers, revised intercoolers and new calibrations for engine, transmission and electronic stability control were tested to the limit in over 100 weeks of powertrain development. The engine’s breath-taking performance is matched to the most advanced Bentley chassis specification ever. Highlights include Speed-tuned air suspension, electric active anti-roll control, eLSD, four-wheel steering and torque vectoring. 

    A new coachbuilding era

    The advanced technologies used to create Batur make it possible for Mulliner to offer customers a level of individuality unheard of in the modern era. New sustainable materials such as natural fibres and technologies such as Additive Manufactured Gold give Mulliner’s designers a near-infinite palette of choice, enabling customers to realise their unique vision of the ultimate grand tourer. Every detail has also had to pass development scrutiny, including the 18ct yellow gold options for the Charisma Dial and the Organ Stop air vent control. Made from recycled, 3D printed gold, these parts have been subjected to tests as wide-ranging as thermal loading to resistance to sun cream.

    The first customer cars 

    Having passed every test with flying colours, Batur is now ready for the next stage of its journey. All 18 examples of Batur have already been reserved, and each customer can now continue the process of co-creation, guided by Mulliner’s in-house design team. After the customer specification of the colour and finish of almost every surface of the Batur, each unique car will be handcrafted in the coming months at Mulliner’s workshop in Bentley’s carbon neutral factory in Crewe, England, with each one taking around four months to complete.

  • Aston Martin Unveils its First Ultra-Luxury Flagship, Q New York 

    Aston Martin Unveils its First Ultra-Luxury Flagship, Q New York 

    • Experience unmatched British tailoring with unique craftsmanship and highly tuned intensity at the Home of Aston Martin in Manhattan
    • Aston Martin’s first ultra-luxury flagship location on 450 Park Avenue, in the heart of New York City
    • Q New York provides an exclusive and immersive entry into the thrilling world of Aston Martin
    • Offering an ultimate blend of digital and physical car configuration, the new location brings the very highest levels of the Q by Aston Martin bespoke service 
    • Flagship opening builds on Aston Martin’s long-standing commitment to luxury craft and the growing trend of personalisation

    [source: Aston Martin]

    New York City, NY – Where Savile Row meets Park Avenue. Aston Martin proudly opens the doors to Q New York, its first ultra-luxury flagship on 450 Park Avenue, in New York City.

    The new location brings the highest levels of the iconic British brand’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin to North America for the very first time, providing the most sophisticated luxury specification experience available anywhere in the world.

    The first-of-its-kind landmark location forms a key pillar of Aston Martin’s ultra-luxury brand and customer experience strategy, with the commitment to provide the very best possible environment for its most discerning clients to create their own intimately personal Aston Martin.

    Conscientiously designed to immerse onlookers into the thrilling world of Aston Martin, visitors on Park Avenue are greeted by a unique window installation of epic proportion, named the ‘Champagne Frame’. Created with one of the largest single panes of glass ever installed into a New York building, the grand window frame looks into the stars – Aston Martin’s most iconic models – which are carefully illuminated by an impressive 2,100 bulb chandelier – spanning 40-metres (131-foot). Meanwhile, the use of mosaic tiles and commanding dining tables helps define the new flagship, bringing the best of British to one of the most prominent streets in the world.

    The new location will serve as a showcase and launch venue for Aston Martin’s latest products, from unique special builds to limited-edition models and newcomers to Aston Martin’s breath-taking portfolio. From today, the flagship proudly displays the all-new DB12 in North America for the very first time, in addition to the era-defining Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro hypercar.

    Q New York offers an ultimate blend of digital and physical car configuration. As part of a custom-made appointment, clients will be able to visualise their personalised Aston Martin on a 10.5 metre (35-foot) x 3.5 metre (10-foot) LED wall capable of providing an ultra-high definition, 360-degree view of any Aston Martin in real-life size. Sitting at the intersection between the physical and digital worlds, Aston Martin’s intention is to provide such a realistic configuration that clients feel as though they could open the door to their car.

    Use of the most innovative Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology will facilitate a seamless, high-end customer specification service, allowing clients to combine the sensorial touch and feel of physical colour and trim samples with live configuration on screen.

    A live video link from Manhattan to Aston Martin’s design studio in Gaydon, UK, enables real-time communication with the brand’s renowned designers and the Q by Aston Martin team, providing the most bespoke and sophisticated commissioning experience available outside of a personal visit to headquarters.

    Offering a concierge experience, carefully curated high-end dining and overnight travel experiences will also be available for those seeking to extend and elevate the experience of creating their own Aston Martin.

    Q by Aston Martin represents a key pillar of Aston Martin’s ultra-luxury strategy, giving clients the ultimate sense of freedom and expression when customising their cars. Whilst a long-standing part of Aston Martin’s DNA, this bespoke service facilitates the growing trend of personalisation across the luxury goods segment.

    Recent years have seen significant growth for the Q by Aston Martin division with a record number of Aston Martin units sold with bespoke touches and elements in 2022, representing a 51% year-on-year increase. Notably, the Americas is the fastest growing region for Q by Aston Martin, with 92% year-on-year growth in 2022.

    Special and limited-edition models have supported this growth, following the introduction of specific Q by Aston Martin: Collection options. These carefully-selected collections are fully costed and visible on the Aston Martin configurator, acting as a significant gateway to introducing customers to the world of Q by Aston Martin and demonstrating the possibilities of this most intimate of services.

    Q by Aston Martin: Commission, the very highest level of the bespoke service, takes customers on an even more exclusive journey that involves a personal collaboration with the Aston Martin design team. This provides an unrivalled opportunity to create a truly bespoke, individual car, with customers known to invest upwards of 30% of the car’s original retail value to add their own mark and achieve a truly bespoke creation.  

    Located on one of the most prominent corners of Midtown Manhattan, Q New York unites both the handcrafted and high-tech nature of Aston Martin, showcasing the very best of British craftsmanship and engineering against the backdrop of an immersive specification experience, thanks to state state-of-the-art technology.

    Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin said: “The opening of our first flagship Q location, in our largest commercial market, is the latest distinct expression of Aston Martin’s shift to an ultra-luxury brand. It demonstrates our ambition to drive global growth and create elevated customer experiences to match our owners’ passion for Aston Martin.

    “We recognise the growing trend of personalisation across the luxury goods segment and see huge value in investing in our customer experience to create the best specification experiences available anywhere in the world. With a 92% increase in Q by Aston Martin take-up in the Americas last year, this is the perfect time and the perfect place for us to open our very first global flagship location.”

    The design principles of the space are built upon quintessentially British architecture, including extensive use of mosaic tiles, chandeliers, beautifully framed grand windows, fireplaces, and mantel pieces, as well as large scaling dining tables.

    Ensuring the space reflects the latest design trends befitting of 21st century Manhattan, an extensive level of attention has been paid to adapting materials and furnishings, all of which are underlined with a conscious awareness of sustainable materials and practises, in line with Aston Martin’s Racing. Green. sustainability strategy. 

    Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Aston Martin said: “Creating wondrous places, spaces and experiences are important design statements for us. And just as we belong in Formula One as British makers of ultra-luxury high-performance sports cars, Aston Martin belongs in New York City. It’s a place where dreams come true.

    “We have created Q New York as a landmark across the Atlantic where our customers can collaborate with our designers to make their own lifelong Aston Martin dreams come true.

    “This is our version of creative performance design and precision craft at their finest – with sights and sounds, shapes and forms, and vivid colours and textured materials – all presented using the latest technology to provide customers with the engaging Aston Martin experience that they deserve.”

    Q New York is now officially open at 450 Park Avenue, with appointments available to be scheduled by any Aston Martin dealer.