Bentley’s Transition: Farewell to the W-12 Engine, Welcome to the Ultra Performance Hybrid

Bentley, the epitome of luxury and performance, is embarking on a significant transformation. The venerable W-12 engine, which has powered Bentley vehicles for over two decades, is gracefully bowing out. In its place, a new era dawns—the Ultra Performance Hybrid. Let’s delve into the details of this momentous shift.

The W-12 Legacy

Introduced more than 20 years ago, the Volkswagen Group’s unconventional 12-cylinder 6.0-liter W-12 engine has been the beating heart of Bentley’s high-performance lineup. Its distinctive “W” formation, rather than the traditional “V” shape, set it apart. The W-12 powered iconic models like the Continental GT, the elegant Flying Spur, and the opulent Bentayga.

The End of an Era

But all good things must come to an end. Bentley has announced that production of the W-12 engine will cease in April 2024. The recently unveiled Batur convertible serves as a fitting farewell, boasting the most powerful version of the W-12 engine—740 horsepower and 737 pound-feet of torque. However, the Batur is already sold out, leaving only a few order slots for other Bentley models equipped with the W-12.

The Ultra Performance Hybrid Emerges

Fear not, Bentley enthusiasts! The transition is not a loss of power but a leap into the future. The new powertrain, aptly named the Ultra Performance Hybrid, combines a V-8 engine with hybrid technology. Here’s what we know:

• Power Output: The Ultra Performance Hybrid churns out an impressive 739 horsepower—at least 89 horsepower more than the W-12 offered in the Speed performance variants of the Flying Spur and the Continental GT.
• Electric-Only Range: With a 50-mile electric-only range, this hybrid powertrain balances performance and sustainability.
• A New Generation of Daily Supercars: Bentley hints that the first model to receive the hybrid V-8 will befit “a new generation of daily supercars.” Imagine the thrill of driving a Bentley with electrified power under the hood.

The Road Ahead

Bentley’s commitment to electrification extends beyond hybrids. Eventually, the brand plans to shift to electric-only vehicles. Currently, Bentley offers plug-in hybrid variants of the Flying Spur and the Bentayga, both utilizing a V-6 engine. As the automotive landscape evolves, Bentley’s journey toward sustainability and innovation continues.

So, as the W-12 engine takes its final bow, we eagerly await the Ultra Performance Hybrid’s debut. It promises not only power but also a greener future—a fusion of luxury and responsibility. Bentley aficionados, fasten your seatbelts; the next chapter awaits!

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Note: The information in this article is based on available sources and reflects the current state of Bentley’s plans. Further details may emerge as the Ultra Performance Hybrid officially arrives.