Wanderlust

Tag: Bentley

  • Bentley’s Women Unite to Design Bespoke Grand Tourer

    Bentley’s Women Unite to Design Bespoke Grand Tourer

    • World-leading musicians Anna Lapwood, Tina Guo and Sister Bliss unite as part of Bentley’s Extraordinary Women programme
    • Union honours International Women’s Day on Saturday 8th March
    • Trio collaborate to design bespoke Continental GTC, to be handcrafted in Crewe and revealed in Q4 this year
    • Unique result symbolises collaboration and female empowerment in celebration of International Women’s Day
    • Extraordinary Talk held for Bentley colleagues, featuring inspiring discussions on creativity, leadership and driving change in male-dominated industries 

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – Bentley Motors has welcomed three exceptional, world-leading musical artists to its Crewe headquarters to design a one-of-a-kind Continental GTC, commissioned to honour female empowerment and collaboration. Celebrated organist and conductor Anna Lapwood MBE, world-renowned virtuoso cellist and composer Tina Guo, and Sister Bliss of legendary dance music group Faithless, joined forces to create a bespoke Bentley that embodies creativity, craftsmanship, and inclusivity.

    This special commission is part of Bentley’s Extraordinary Women programme, an initiative dedicated to championing gender equality, fostering inclusion, and empowering women globally. Bentley Motors invited these exceptional artists to join the programme in recognition of their remarkable contributions to music, their influence as role models, and their dedication to challenging industry norms. 

    The unique Continental GTC, tailored through Bentley’s Mulliner division, represents the artistic and personal influences of each musician, blending bespoke design elements that reflect their personal journeys and shared vision. Bentley’s Mulliner design team played a pivotal role in bringing the vision to life, with two leading female designers at the forefront of the project. These industry leading experts ensured every detail of the Continental GTC reflected the essence of the musicians’ artistry. Their expertise in bespoke luxury design continues to set new standards in automotive personalisation, reaffirming Bentley’s dedication to fostering talent across industries, including the arts, automotive, and beyond. The result of this extraordinary collaboration will be revealed in Q4, after the car has been handcrafted by the craftspeople and artisans at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England.

    Alongside this design project, Bentley hosted the next session of its ‘Extraordinary Talks’ series for its colleagues, where Lapwood, Guo, and Sister Bliss shared inspiring discussions on creativity, leadership, collaboration and driving change in male-dominated industries to an audience of over 100 colleagues. The talk encouraged colleagues to embrace innovation and support a more inclusive future.

    Bentley Motors continues to support DEIB initiatives that drive positive change. This unique Continental GTC serves as a striking representation of what can be achieved when talent, vision, and collaboration come together.

    Anna Lapwood MBE

    Anna Lapwood, awarded an MBE at just 28, has captivated millions on social media and in live audiences by redefining the role of the organ, blending classical music with modern genres and pushing the boundaries of performance. Lapwood has built a following of more than two million across her social media channels, regularly performs concertos with leading symphony orchestras and conductors and collaborated with artists including Raye, Bonobo and Benedict Cumberbatch. Anna’s passion for the organ is matched by her mission to support girls and women in music. She was the first female in Magdalen College Oxford’s 560-year history to be awarded the Organ Scholarship and since then has run regular organ workshops for young players around the country. Having spent some years being encouraged to “play like a man”, Anna is proud and humbled to see so many adopt her hashtag,  #playlikeagirl. She is an Associate Artist of the Royal Albert Hall in London, and in 2023 was awarded the prestigious ‘Gamechanger’ Award from the Royal Philharmonic Society.

    Today, Anna announces ‘Firedove’, her new album set for release on 30th May via Sony Classical. Recorded through the night at Nidaros Cathedral in Norway, ‘Firedove’ brings together all of Anna’s different musical worlds for organ & choir with classical pieces, film scores, minimalism, new commissions and unexpected pop covers.

    Tina Guo

    Tina Guo, a Chinese-born American Grammy-nominated virtuoso cellist, is known for her genre-defying approach and collaborations with some of the world’s most celebrated artists. Guo has performed as the featured soloist in scores for major film productions (including Sherlock Holmes, Dunkirk, Inception and many others), TV shows and video games. One of the most recorded solo cellists of all time, Guo recent film projects include DUNE, DUNE 2, Gran Turismo and Top Gun: Maverick, while also delivering music for new video games Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora.

    Alongside her work for film scores, Tina is a classical soloist performing with orchestras across the globe, and has toured as a soloist with her electric cello as part of Hans Zimmer Live since 2016.

    Tina also co-composed the Main Theme for Wonder Woman with Hans Zimmer – music that has since become an anthem for female empowerment, and a defining example of her own power and ability. Guo performs on a Gand & Bernadel cello made in Paris, France in 1878, a customized Yamaha SVC-210 electric cello, and an erhu made in Shanghai, China.

    Sister Bliss

    Sister Bliss, one of the founding members of legendary dance act Faithless, has led a pioneering 17-year career, producing eight albums, six top-ten singles and selling over fifteen million records worldwide, breaking new ground for female DJs. Founding Faithless as the core musician together with producer Rollo and vocalist Maxi Jazz in 1995, Sister Bliss is responsible for the music behind all of Faithless’ most iconic records, including Insomnia – voted the fifth best dance track of all time. Faithless have headlined major festivals across Europe, including four appearances at Glastonbury.

    As one of the first female DJs to find incredible mainstream success, Sister Bliss paved the way for a generation of female talent to rise up through the traditionally male-dominated dance music industry. Following a break after the tragic loss of Maxi Jazz in 2022, Sister Bliss announced that Faithless would return to the stage in 2024 after an eight year absence. 2025 will bring continued touring with summer dates across the UK and Europe and the release of Faithless’ next studio album, Champion Sound.

  • Exterior Accent Colours Extend the Palette Beyond 46 Billion Possibilities

    Exterior Accent Colours Extend the Palette Beyond 46 Billion Possibilities

    • Even more exterior accent colours and options now available for fourth-generation Continental GT and Continental GT Convertible
    • The 46 billion ‘standard’ ways to configure a Continental GT now becomes truly infinite, thanks to the world of Mulliner
    • Accent colour options include body kits, wheel designs and door mirrors
    • Wheel finishes offered in a wide choice of single colour, duo tone, satin and pearlescent shades
    • Options also available for Flying Spur and Bentayga personalisation
    • Bespoke co-creations use accent colours to realise the designer’s vision
    • One in four Bentleys now feature Mulliner bespoke options

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – Bentley customers now have access to an even wider array of exterior personalisation options for the fourth Generation Continental GT and Continental GT convertible. Bentley’s bespoke and coachbuilding division – Mulliner – has expanded its wide range of exterior accent colours, allowing owners to express their individuality and eye for detail through subtle enhancements, each executed with meticulous care by Mulliner’s artisans.

    Accent colour options include pinstripes to body kits and door mirrors, and wheel designs painted in single colours, two contrasting colours, or with pinstripe details. Adding to the breadth of choice, wheels can be specified in solid or metallic colours, as well as satin and pearlescent finishes. 

    Exterior accent colours can complement or contrast the model’s exterior finish. They can also echo an interior finish or any hide colour, uniting interior and exterior colour palettes. For example, the new dark chrome interior finish offered for the Continental GT could be paired with a matching exterior accent colour in dark grey. The Mulliner Personal Commissioning Guide is the gateway to a world of possibilities, enabling each customer to realise their unique vision. 

    Emphasing style and performance

    With their lean, muscular lines the fourth generation Continental GT and Continental GT Convertible readily inspire a personal and dramatic colour specification. For these models, Mulliner now offers a contrast accent pinstripe for the aerodynamic body kit in either gloss or satin finish. The perfectly executed pinstripe traces the outer edges of the front spoiler, sills and rear diffuser. A pinstripe accent colour is also available for mirror caps and wheel rims. 

    Another contrast option offered by Mulliner is a Beluga black roof finish for the new Continental GT*. This creates a bold, performance-focused look. It recalls the livery of the Pikes Peak limited edition, which celebrated the record-breaking ascent of Pikes Peak in just 10 minutes, 18.4 seconds by a Continental GT. 

    Subtle details demonstrating individual flair

    As with the Continental GT, the contrast accent pinstripe for the Flying Spur traces the lower edge of the body kit.  Alternatively, Mulliner offers a carbon fibre body kit, which can either feature the carbon fibre weave beneath a protective clear lacquer finish or be specified in a finish of the owner’s choice. This component, too, can be specified with a contrast accent pinstripe. Wheel rim and mirror cap pinstripes in matching accent colours complete the look. 

    Bright and bold for Bentayga

    Contrast accent options for the Bentayga include pinstripes to mirror caps and wheel rims. Painted brake callipers are offered in a choice of Klein Blue, Signal Yellow and Ice Silver as an alternative to the standard black finish. The Bentayga’s optional carbon fibre body kit can also be specified with a contrast accent pinstripe. 

    Wheels – the finishing touch

    Wheel finishes make a dramatic difference to the visual impact of the finished vehicle; a single colour, perhaps matched to the body finish, create a unified and contemporary look. In contrast, a metallic duotone – with the spokes and pockets of the wheel in contrasting colours – draws the eye to the wheel’s intricate design and creates a more opulent effect. A more subtle effect is achieved through pinstriping around the circumference of the wheel rim. Customers can choose painted wheels in either solid, metallic, duo tone, satin or pearlescent finishes – using the entire paint range or even commissioning their own truly bespoke colour and finish.

    Bespoke creations

    Accent colours add a key ingredient to Mulliner’s bespoke creations. When fashion designer Supriya Lele collaborated with Mulliner designers to create a one-off Bentayga S, she created a bespoke colour, Nīla Blue, inspired by her Indian heritage. This bespoke hue, subtle yet distinctive, echoes the sense of enduring elegance that characterises her work. The same shade was used as an accent colour on the wheel rims, while the Mulliner White accent colour on the bodykit anticipates the restrained use of white piping in the interior.  

    Another one-off, co-curated by Bentley Naples, was Mulliner’s first bespoke fourth Generation Continental GT Convertible. Design highlights included sumptuous Damson exterior paint with Moonbeam accent colour, complementing the White main hide, Damson secondary hide and silver seat piping of the interior. This one-off creation was auctioned at the Naples Winter Wine Festival and raised $1.7m for at-risk and underprivileged children.

    A growing trend

    With one in four Bentleys leaving the Crewe factory now featuring Mulliner content, customer demand for greater individuality and distinction continues to grow. David Parker, Chief Commercial Officer at Mulliner, commented: “Our team of designers, engineers and artisans aim to ensure that each customer’s tastes and personality can be expressed, whether by exclusive paint and hide colours, materials, or bespoke features. The only limits are those of the imagination”.

    * Black roof option for Continental GT available when panoramic roof is specified. 

  • Market Find: Continental GT S in Lilac Frost at Bentley Beverly Hills

    Market Find: Continental GT S in Lilac Frost at Bentley Beverly Hills

    What: 2024 Bentley Continental GT S
    Color: Beluga over Lilac Frost (lilacfrost; metallic Uni; 6392; Bentley)
    VIN: SCBCG2ZG6RC017453
    Mileage: 33 miles
    Price: $374,580
    CarFax: N/A
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: O’Gara Coach / Bentley Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills, CA
    Dealer Listing: Link

    Maybe it just makes sense, but Bentley Beverly Hills has established itself as one of the foremost stockists of pastel-colored Bentley motor cars. We’ve highlighted them before on this site, and this particular purple Continental GT S fits snugly within that mold.

    The color is Beluga over Lilac Frost, a pastel purple unlike anything you’re likely to see on a modern car. Although, in the home town of Paris Hilton and her own pink Bentley, it’s not hard to get why this purple GT S would make a compelling case.

    The additional details of the specification include

    Other manufacturer options include Mulliner – Colour Split S, GT Black Roof Mulliner Range Solid & Metallic, Styling Specification, Touring Specification, Leather Spec w Precision Diamond Quilting, Bentley Rotating Display, Panoramic Glass Roof, Front Seat Comfort Specification, Single Finish – High Gloss Carbon Fibre, 22-inch 10 Spoke Sports Wheel – Black Painted, Colour Specification, Mulliner PCG – Mulliner Overmats (Front), Mulliner PCG – Contrast Stitch Diamond Quilt Area, Standard Brakes with Black Calipers, Heated Windshield, Self Leveling Wheel Badge – by Mulliner, LED Welcome Lamps, Deep Pile Overmats – Front.

  • Mulliner Legacy Colors Return for Bentley Bentayga Atelier Edition

    Mulliner Legacy Colors Return for Bentley Bentayga Atelier Edition

    • New Limited Edition for Bentayga showcases clean, contemporary luxury aesthetic
    • Six curated colour specifications include the return of five Mulliner legacy exterior colours and a new Obsidian Crystal paint 
    • The Atelier Edition’s elegant luxury contrasts the S Black Edition’s contemporary style
    • Exterior design details include Atelier Edition wing vent, Hallmark Satin bumper valances, 22” ten-spoke wheels with Tungsten pockets and unique grille treatment 
    • Interior special features include Atelier Edition treadplates, headrest brand tags and single elongated diamond in contrast stitching on Harmony Diamond seat quilting
    • Atelier Edition animated welcome light sequence unique to this model
    • Lavish specification includes many Mulliner options as standard

    Crewe, England –  The new Atelier Edition for Bentayga offers a beguiling combination of limited-edition exclusivity, contemporary design and cosseting luxury. Complementing a thoughtfully curated package of exterior and interior features, the Atelier Edition is offered in six distinctive colour combinations. These include five Mulliner Legacy colours and feature exterior detailing finishes that are unique to this model. The new Atelier Edition is available for the Bentayga V8 and Hybrid, as well as the Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB). 

    The five legacy exterior colours, Light Onyx, Rubino, Porcelain, Quartzite and Light Emerald and are joined by a new additional colour, Obsidian Crystal to form the six curated colour combinations. Rubino stunned the crowds at Frankfurt Motor Show with the launch of the third generation Continental GT, Porcelain provided a beautiful exterior colour to compliment the introduction of the Mulliner range for Continental, and Quartzite emphasised the performance look of the S range for all models.

    Alternatively, customers have the entire range of Bentley finishes to select from should they prefer. Completing the package are sought-after options such as mood lighting, Bentley Dynamic Ride (where available), Harmony Diamond upholstery quilting – Bentley’s most comfort-focused quilting option – and the five-seat Comfort Specification. 

    Six curated colour combinations

    While customers may choose any exterior colour from the full paint range, the Atelier Edition’s designers have curated six recommended colour specifications, combining exterior finishes with a two-colour interior where the secondary hide colour is matched by piano finishes on centre stack and veneer carriers. 

    For the first colour combination, Light Onyx, a warm grey Mulliner legacy finish, is matched to an interior where the main hide is Linen and the secondary hide is Imperial Blue. The recommended finish for fascia and waistrails is diamond brushed aluminium. 

    The second colour combination features a new finish specially created for the Bentayga Atelier Edition. Dramatic Obsidian Crystal is complemented by a secondary hide of Beluga with a main hide of Saddle, while fascia and waistrails are Open Pore Dark-stained Walnut. 

    Colour combination three offers another Mulliner legacy finish, Light Emerald, paired with an interior of Cumbrian Green and Portland. The diamond brushed aluminium on the fascia and waistrails is a subtle echo of the Hallmark Satin finish that appears on the exterior.

    The fourth combination takes the deep red of Rubino exterior finish and pairs it with a Cricketball secondary hide colour in the interior. Cricketball contrast stitching and veneer carriers stand out beautifully against the understated Gravity Grey main hide upholstery and the brushed aluminium finish on fascia and waistrails. 

    Owners living in warmer, sunnier climates may be drawn to the lighter tone of Porcelain exterior finish. This Mulliner legacy shade is matched with an interior where the main hide is Portland and the secondary hide Burnt Oak. A fascia and waistrails in Open Pore Koa maintain the mood of contemporary luxury while the finish for the centre stack, picnic tables (if applicable) and console is executed in Piano Burnt Oak. 

    The sixth and final recommended colour combination takes Quartzite, an elegant grey, and pairs it with a two-colour interior of Linen and Gravity Grey. Fascia and waistrails in Piano Linen are framed by veneer carriers in Gravity Grey. 

    Exterior: subtle distinction in Hallmark Satin

    The exterior of the Bentayga Atelier Edition strikes a note of assured elegance thanks to its combination of subtle details. These include a vertical vane chrome grille behind which is a second, matrix grille in Hallmark Satin. Hallmark Satin finish can also be found on the front and rear bumper valances, while the 22” ten-spoke alloy wheels feature a bright machined finish in satin with painted pockets in Tungsten Satin. The wing vent with the Atelier Edition features Tungsten Satin as a background finish. 

    Interior: clean, elegant luxury aesthetic

    On opening the doors, the driver and passengers are greeted by an animated welcome light sequence that is unique to the Atelier Edition. On entry, they step over Atelier Edition treadplates with the inscription ‘Hand Crafted in Crewe, England’. Visual and tactile delights include Harmony Diamond quilting with a single, elongated diamond picked out in contrast stitching matched to the secondary hide colour. The same contrast colour features as piping on the headrests and painted veneer carriers. Small Atelier Edition brand tags on the headrests provide a finishing touch. 

    A comprehensive specification

    Customers may feel little need to scan the options catalogue as many of the most sought-after Mulliner options are included as standard. Features include self-levelling wheel badges, the iconic ‘jewel’ filler cap, mood lighting, Bentley Diamond Illumination and the five-seat Comfort Specification. Owners of the V8 models, whether the standard wheelbase Bentayga V8 or the Bentayga EWB, will also enjoy Bentley Dynamic Ride with all-wheel steer. 

    Each of the Atelier Edition Bentayga’s produced, will showcase the painstaking craftsmanship, contemporary luxury and effortless performance, offered by this latest model.     

    *Specifications may vary between region. 

  • Retrospective: Dames Point Bridge Commission Bentley Continental GTC at Last Year’s Amelia Concours

    Retrospective: Dames Point Bridge Commission Bentley Continental GTC at Last Year’s Amelia Concours

    As the automotive community gets ready for The Amelia weekend March 6-9, we wanted to take a look back at one of the cars that very quickly grabbed our attention on site last year. Amidst the main show field sat an installation by Bentley, and within that this very unique Continental GTC.

    One of the things we love about companies like Bentley is their readiness to jump into tailored and commissioned builds, with display cars for key events like The Amelia offering a perfect opportunity to show off their capabilities. This car, appearing to pay tribute to The Dames Point Bridge as seen on its infotainment screen, is fitting in that it harks the nearby structure in nearby Jacksonville, FL. The span, part of I-295 north and south, spans the St. Johns River to connect downtown Jacksonville with points north… points such as Amelia Island, FL that The Amelia calls home.

    At the heart of any Mulliner build like this is are the special touches. The car’s Silver Taupe (silvertaupe; metallic Uni; 6745; Bentley Mulliner) exterior paint is a light metallic brown that seems an obvious nod to the concrete hue of the Dames Point Bridge. Accents to that paint include a Sky Blue painted pinstripe and Carbon Fiber Bodykit Styling Specification excluding the Bootlid Spoiler. The lower brightware of the GTC is here again color matched in Silver Taupe.

    Obviously, a color harkening concrete is going to be subtle, which sets up perfectly for this cabriolet’s more bold cabin specification.

    Inside, the tribute is to the blue waters of the St. Johns River, the interior leather receives Bentley’s Color Split D configuration, with primary hide being striking Sky Blue, with secondary hide of Beluga and accent hide and seat bolsters in Stratos.

    Frankly, the level of specification for a display car befitting a venue such as The Amelia is staggering, so we reached out to Bentley to get the full Mulliner specification for this remarkable interior. Unsurprisingly, it’s a substantial list. It includes:

    • Bespoke Colour Split (Based on Colour Split D):
    • Beluga Secondary Hide.
    • Sky Blue Main Hide.
    • Scratos Accent Hide.
    • Seat Bolsters in Stratos.
    • Steering Wheel 6 O’Clock Spoke in Sky Blue.
    • Concrast Gear Lever and Steering Wheel Accent Tab in Scratos.
    • Contrast Stitching to Standard Areas with Additional Seat Piping in White.
    • Addiditional Contrast Stitching to Door Armrests in White.
    • Piano Black Veneer:
    • Sky Blue Pinscripe to Fascia and Door Waistrails (Including Upper Bullseye Vane).
    • Bentayga Brushed Metal Finish to Centre Console.
    • Concrast Stitching to Inner and Outer Diamonds of MDS Quilt Pattern in Stratos.
    • Concrast Mulliner Steering Wheel Honeycomb Stitching in Stracos.
    • Embroidered Bentley Emblems – Contrast in Stratos.
    • Personalised Jacksonville Seven Bridges Collection Treadplate.
    • Personalised Dames Point Bridge Overlay on Bentley Rotating Display.
    • Mulliner Overmats:
    • Beluga Carpet.
    • Beluga Binding and Scitch.
    • White Micropipe.

    The list of additional standard order book options for this Dames Point show car is also robust. On the outside, this included 22-inch ten spoke wheels painted black, Touring Specification, Blackline Specification, Styling Specification, Black Roof, LED welcome Lamps “By Mulliner”, and standard brakes with black painted calipers. Order book options inside the car include carpets matched to secondary hide, front seat Comfort Specification, Mood Lighting Specification, Naim for Bentley audio, Bentley Rotating Display, heated single-tone 3-spoke steering wheel, Leather Specification and Mulliner Colour Specification.

    What will Bentley bring for 2025? We’ll all have to wait and see.

  • Bentley Speed Six Continuation Series #3 Presented to Owner

    Bentley Speed Six Continuation Series #3 Presented to Owner

    • Created by hand in the Mulliner workshops over eight months
    • Culmination of a boyhood dream, inspired by a child’s toy
    • Unique specification has personal significance to owner and family
    • Special green ‘Embelo’ finish named for their three daughters
    • Owner’s garage includes Continuation Series Blower, a first generation Continental GT, rare Continental GT3R, Supersports and Bentayga
    • Handover took place at Cliveden House, Berkshire.

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – Many a Bentley owner’s love of the marque begins in childhood, and the owner of the third of twelve Speed Six Continuation Series is no exception. In his case, it was a ‘Models of Yesteryear’ scale model Blower Bentley, given to him by his uncle, that sparked a lifelong fascination with the pre-war Bentley racing cars.

    The owner and his wife enjoy a stable of Crewe-built Bentleys, including a first-generation Continental GT, a motorsports-inspired Continental GT3R, second-generation Continental Supersports and First Edition Bentayga. Pride of place however goes to his Continuation Series ‘Blower’ 4½ Litre Supercharged and the latest addition, a Continuation Series Speed Six. Not only has he kept that cherished scale model ‘Blower’ to this day, but it also provided the visual inspiration for his two Bentley Continuation Series cars.     

    At the workshops of Mulliner Classic, realising a customer’s dreams is both their calling and their pride. Continuation Speed Six #3 (of 12) is a case in point; created with meticulous attention to detail to be identical in every respect to the original 1930s works racer, it also features several personal touches in its specification that make it truly individual, from the one-off paint finish to the racing number 3 that it carries on its flank and radiator.

    Personal memories and family associations
    Both the Continuation Series Speed Six and the Continuation Series Blower are the third of twelve in their series, and the Speed Six also carries the racing number 3. The number that has fond associations for the owner, who played rugby to semi-pro standard as a tighthead prop, wearing the number 3 jersey, for many years.

    Both the Blower and the Speed Six are finished in the same specially blended shade of green, chosen after careful consideration to be mid-way between the light green of the owner’s scale model and traditional British Racing Green. The shade was christened ‘Embelo Green’, taking the first letters of the couple’s three daughters. Like the owner’s scale model Bentley, his Speed Six Continuation Series’ interior is upholstered in red, though the couple chose a more muted shade than that of the toy.

    As with all this owner’s Bentleys, the Speed Six will be regularly and enthusiastically driven. Accordingly, another special request was for the Mulliner team to provide two exhaust systems with the Speed Six: one unsilenced as the original Speed Six specification, and the other with a silencer for circuits where noise restrictions are required.  Bentley Mulliner engineering developed this silencer specifically for the Speed Six Continuation series. Finishing touches include a white patch on the leading edge of the nearside front fender for easier identification when coming into the pits and a hand-painted Union Flag on the driver’s side of the car. 

    A hands-on experience
    Commissioning a Continuation Series Bentley is a highly personal process and, like many Mulliner Classic customers, the owner of the #3 Speed Six became a familiar figure in the Crewe workshops. A highly capable craftsman in his own right, he even spent a day working as part of the Mulliner team to fit the period-correct Rexine fabric of his Blower’s Weymann-style bodywork. While work commitments meant he was unable to do the same for his Speed Six, he fully intends to use it as W.O. Bentley intended – fast, reliable and capable of impressive performance.

    The legendary Speed Six
    The Speed Six was introduced in 1928 as a more sporting version of the Bentley 6½ Litre. The engine was modified to liberate more power, with twin SU carburettors, a higher compression ratio and a high-performance camshaft.

    182 Speed Six models were built between 1928 and 1930. Two wins at the Le Mans 24 Hour race, in 1929 and 1930, cemented the Speed Six’s pre-eminent place in Bentley racing history.

    For the Continuation Series Speed Six, Mulliner Classic took two original Speed Sixes as its template: the company’s own Speed Six, GU409, and ‘Old Number 3’, a works Speed Six driven in the 1930 Le Mans 24 Hour race by Sammy Davis and Clive Dunfee. The latter was generously loaned by its owner and gave the Mulliner team invaluable data on dimensions, materials, and components. The Mulliner Classic team is also indebted to the W.O. Bentley Memorial Foundation, which provided 80% of the original drawings and notes used by the team.  

    About Bentley Motors
    Bentley Motors is the most sought-after luxury car brand in the world. The company’s headquarters in Crewe is home to all of its operations including design, R&D, engineering, Mulliner and production of the company’s five model lines, Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible, Flying Spur, Bentayga and Bentayga EWB. The combination of fine craftsmanship, using skills that have been handed down through generations, alongside engineering expertise and cutting-edge technology is unique to UK luxury car brands such as Bentley. It is also an example of high-value British manufacturing at its best. Bentley employs around 4,000 people at Crewe.

  • Speed Six Continuation and Continental GTC to Debut at Retromobile Classic Event

    Speed Six Continuation and Continental GTC to Debut at Retromobile Classic Event

    • Continuation of the Speed Six, the most successful Bentley race car in history, with two Le Mans wins in 1929 and 1930
    • Every car handcrafted from scratch using period-correct tools, fixings and techniques – over a process of 10 months from start to finish
    • Continental GTC with the all-new 782 PS, 1000 Nm ‘Ultra Performance Hybrid’ powertrain
    • 81 km of electric range, and CO2 emissions of 29 g/km*

    [source: Bentley]

    Munich, Germany –  Bentley Motors will showcase the Bentley Speed Six Continuation Series following the successful completion of twelve Bentley 4½ Litre Supercharged ‘Blower’ Continuation models, the world’s first pre-war continuation series. The build of each car will take a total of ten months from start to finish.

    The Continuation Series Speed Six takes two original Speed Sixes as its template: the company’s own Speed Six, GU409, and ‘Old Number 3’, a works Speed Six driven in the 1930 Le Mans 24 Hour race by Sammy Davis and Clive Dunfee. The latter was generously loaned by its owner and gave the Mulliner team invaluable data on dimensions, materials, and components.

    The Speed Six was introduced in 1928 as a more sporting version of the Bentley 6½ Litre. The engine was modified to liberate more power, with twin SU carburettors, a higher compression ratio and a high-performance camshaft. A contemporary road test in The Morning Post concluded, “I consider this car to be one of the most remarkable engineering achievements of the century, the balance of speed, silence and flexibility having been maintained in a unique manner.”

    182 Speed Six models were built between 1928 and 1930. Two wins at the Le Mans 24 Hour race, in 1929 and 1930, cemented the Speed Six’s pre-eminent place in Bentley racing history. 

    Bentley Motors is also proud to reveal the fourth generation Continental GTC Speed in Jetstream, following in the 21-year tradition of the Continental GT family by redefining the ultimate blend of supercar performance, handcrafted luxury and everyday usability.

    For the new Continental GTC Speed, a brand-new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain has been developed. The new powertrain combines a new 4.0 litre V8 engine capable of producing 600 PS (584 bhp) with a 190 PS (187 bhp) electric motor. Performance of the Continental GTC Speed is breath-taking for an open-air Grand Tourer. 

    The Convertible features Bentley’s seven-bow fabric roof system, available in a range of seven exterior colours (including tweed) and deployable in 19 seconds at speeds up to 48 km/h. With a  completely new 400-volt electrical architecture enables the most advanced suite of powertrain technology to be offered by a luxury automotive brand today, delivering emissions of 29 g/km of CO2 and an electric range of 80 km on the WLTP drive cycle.

    Bentley location at Retromobile: Hall 1 H084

  • First Bespoke New Continental GTC Speed Sold at Charity Auction Benefitting Naples Children & Education Foundation

    First Bespoke New Continental GTC Speed Sold at Charity Auction Benefitting Naples Children & Education Foundation

    • Fourth-generation bespoke GTC auctioned at 2025 Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF) benefitting the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF)
    • Auction lot 45 raised $1.7M in 2025, the highest lot of the day 
    • Auction winner to take delivery of Bentley’s latest open top grand tourer and join exclusive 2025 Monterey Car Week program
    • GTC sports unique Damson exterior with bespoke Mulliner interior of White and Damson hides with Silver Piping
    • Specification curated by Mulliner with Bentley Naples for the auction
    • The NWWF, in its 25th anniversary year, resulted in the most successful auction ever raising more than $34M for the NCEF

    [source: Bentley]

    Naples, FL –  The first bespoke new Continental GTC Speed was auctioned for charity at this year’s Naples Winter Wine Festival. Bentley’s latest pinnacle open top grand tourer took part in the Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF), raising $1.7M to support at-risk and underprivileged children in Collier County. This brings the total amount raised at the 2025 NWWF to over $34 million, resulting in the most successful auction to date for its 25th anniversary year.

    The Bentley Naples auction lot included two core areas: delivery of a unique Continental GTC Speed with Mulliner specification crafted specifically designed for the Naples Winter Wine Festival and an exclusive one-off package and access to Bentley’s largest event of the year, Monterey Car Week, taking place in August 2025. 

    The GTC features a striking Damson exterior paint paired with a Dark Grey Metallic fabric roof, while the Light Grey interior roof complements the White main hide and Damson secondary hide, accented with silver seat piping. Adding to its exclusivity are personalized Naples Winter Wine Festival treadplates, blackline and touring specifications, LED welcome lights, and a Moonbeam-painted pinstripe around the exterior. The GTC also features a unique piano white and Damson-painted veneer, a specification exclusive to Mulliner, making this vehicle truly one of a kind.

    This year, for the first time, Bentley auctioned its most powerful engine offering, the Ultra Performance Plug-In Hybrid V8, which produces 771 horsepower, over 100 more than the previous version, and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 3.2 seconds.

    In addition to the new Continental GTC, the winners will experience Bentley’s exclusive Monterey Car Week 2025 program in August, the brand’s most significant activation of the year. The package includes four nights of luxury accommodations at The Inn at Spanish Bay, two tickets to Bentley’s VIP Terrace during The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and two VIP tickets to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, complete with access to The Bench hospitality suite at The Lodge, offering unparalleled views of the prestigious awards. Winners will also receive an exclusive invitation to Bentley’s Beach Dinner at Seal Rock Beach and access to Bentley’s Signature Party at the Beach and Tennis Club.

    “Bentley Motors is pleased to support Bentley Naples as we see through another successful auction at the Naples Winter Wine Festival continuing its charitable efforts,” said Jun Watanabe, Senior Director, Sales and Operations at Bentley Americas. “Contributing to the community and fostering a sense of purpose are integral to our broader understanding of sustainability, paving the way for future generations to thrive.”

    As part of Bentley’s commitment to philanthropy, the proceeds from the auction benefited the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF), which works to improve the lives of underprivileged children in Collier County, Florida. The Naples Winter Wine Festival, now in its 25th year, is celebrated for its exceptional auction lots and its dedication to community impact, having raised more than $336 million since its inception.

    “We have been honored to be involved with the Naples Winter Wine Festival Auction since 2006 and it’s transformative work the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF),” said Jason Reidel, Managing Partner of Bentley Naples. “Each year, together with Bentley Motors Inc we are grateful for the opportunity to play a role in supporting this incredible mission and making a meaningful difference in our special Southwest Florida community.”

    “We are sincerely grateful to Bentley for allowing us to showcase this phenomenal automobile in our 25th annual Naples Winter Wine Festival live auction,” said Bill Beynon, Team 25 Co-Chairs. “Their extraordinary support this year and in the past several years has enabled us to raise much needed funds for essential programs that will improve the lives of underprivileged and at-risk children in our community.”     

    About Naples Winter Wine Festival 
    The Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF), one of the world’s most prestigious charity wine auctions, offers a weekend of unforgettable memories. Guests enjoy world-class food and wine during intimate dinners in elegant, private homes and other landmark settings throughout Naples and are invited to bid on once-in-a-lifetime travel and wine experiences during an electrifying live auction. Since its inaugural event in 2001, the NWWF has raised more than $336 million, making a profound difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of children in Collier County.

  • Bentley at Brussels Motor Show, Including Bentayga EWB Riviera Collection Debut

    Bentley at Brussels Motor Show, Including Bentayga EWB Riviera Collection Debut

    • Bentley Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection turns heads at the Brussels Motor Show 
    • A unique blend of craftsmanship, designed with bespoke exterior and interior elements inspired by the world of yachting
    • Alongside the new Continental GTC, powered by the ultra performance hybrid powertrain

    [source: Bentley]

    Brussels, Belgium – Bentley Motors proudly presents two exceptional models at the Brussels Motor Show, marking a new pinnacle of luxury and performance. The Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection, with its captivating Aegean Blue exterior inspired by the depths of the sea, takes centre stage alongside the debut of the new Continental GTC in a dazzling Bronze finish at the heart of Belgium’s capital.

    Designed to set a new standard for passenger comfort, the model features the innovative Airline Seat Specification, incorporating a postural adjustment system. This groundbreaking technology, developed in collaboration with chiropractors, uses algorithms to make 177 micro adjustments across six independent pressure zones over a three-hour period, ensuring optimal comfort and minimizing fatigue during long journeys. Reflecting the serenity and refinement of the yachting lifestyle, the Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection is a testament to Bentley’s commitment to artistry and innovation.

    The Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection offers a unique bespoke environment with an interior that includes Linen as main hide and Brunel as secondary hide with Autumn accents. A special Riviera Collection ‘knot’ embroidery on the headrest and “Azure” embroidery on the seat backs in Autumn accents underpin the collection’s attention to detail and exclusivity. 

    Accompanying this extraordinary model is the new Continental GTC, finished in a stunning Bronze exterior complemented by granite-coloured brightware and striking 22” ten-spoke wheels in a grey-painted and bright-machined finish. With an interior in Cumbrian Green leather, Camel accents and detailed with contrast stitching. Redefining the ultimate blend of supercar performance, handcrafted luxury and everyday usability. The performance of the powertrain is matched by a new chassis system, with new two-chamber air springs paired with new dual-valve dampers, along with Bentley Dynamic Ride (48V active anti-roll control), eLSD and torque vectoring. The new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain delivers a revolutionary blend of extreme performance and effortless electric luxury, delivering an unforgettable driving experience. 

    The performance of the Continental GTC Speed is breath-taking for an open-air Grand Tourer. With 782 PS and 1000 Nm it takes 3.4 seconds from 0-100 km/h while delivering emissions of 29 g/km of CO2 and an electric range of 81 km on the WLTP drive cycle. The Convertible features Bentley’s seven-bow fabric roof system available in a range of seven exterior colours (including tweed) and deployable in 19 seconds at speeds up to 48 km/h. 

    The Bentley brand is represented by D’Ieteren Automotive in Belgium with three dedicated showrooms: Bentley Antwerp, Bentley Brussels and Bentley Knokke. 

  • Color Check: Bentley Flying Spur Speed in Storm Grey over Kingfisher

    Color Check: Bentley Flying Spur Speed in Storm Grey over Kingfisher

    While most cars today are produced in monotone paint, there’s no denying that duo-tone bodywork has enjoyed heydays over the years, with more frequent heydays in the super luxury space where brands like Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Bugatti operate. Cars like the new Flying Spur Speed are a perfect platform for just such a duo-tone livery. And in the case of this particular Flying Spur Speed that turned up on the brand’s Global Media Drive, Bentley’s Storm Grey (stormgrey; metallic UNI; 6704; Bentley) over Kingfisher (kingfisher; metallic UNI; 6549 / 9560205; Bentley) looks the business.

    Bentley has released photos of each car on location for the drive. This includes full build specifications. Going forward, we’re going to be color checking all of them, and next up is this particular specification.

    Inside, the cabin is Brunel and Kingfisher leather detailed with contrast stitching and High Gloss Carbon Fiber fascias.

    Worth noting, the car also has several options that we’ll list here along with U.S. pricing. These include Mulliner Personal Commission Duo Tone Paintwork ($33,325), ‘Naim for Bentley Premium Audio System ($9,615), Touring Specification ($7,890), Bentley Rotating Display ($6,955), Full Length Center Console with 4-Seat Configuration ($5,135), Illuminated Flying ‘B’ in Polished Stainless Steel ($4,895), Wellness Seating ($4,670), 22″ Ten Swept Spoke Wheels – Bright Machined ($4,400), and High Gloss Carbon Fiber Fascia ($4,330).

    Touring Specification includes Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Night Vision and Head-up Display.

    Wellness Seating includes Postural and Lumbar Adjustments, Cooled and Heated Seating and Massage Functions.