Bentley Supersports: The Return of a Performance Icon

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Bentley will release a limited-run, high-performance Supersports variant of its Continental coupe in Australia, but only a handful of the 500 global units will be allocated to the local market. Expected to arrive in early 2027, each vehicle carries an estimated price tag of $900,000 before taxes.

The Supersports name dates back to 1925, representing Bentley’s history of lightweight and powerful vehicles. This latest iteration strips back luxury features in favor of aggressive performance, marking a significant shift for the brand. It is the lightest Continental GT ever produced, weighing under 2000 kg – a first for Bentley in 85 years.

Stripped for Speed: What’s Changed?

The new Supersports model ditches all-wheel drive and hybrid components to achieve substantial weight savings. The vehicle is powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 490 kW and 800 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and rear-wheel drive. A bespoke Akrapovič exhaust enhances both performance and sound.

Bentley has removed nearly 500 kg by eliminating the battery, electric motors, and AWD system. Other measures include a carbon-fiber roof, a stripped-out interior with a leather-wrapped carbon-fiber tub in place of rear seats, reduced soundproofing, and the removal of certain driver-assistance features.

Performance Figures and Handling

The Supersports accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of approximately 310 km/h. Handling is improved through torque vectoring, a 48V electric anti-roll system (Bentley Ride), and upgraded braking with 440mm carbon-silicon carbide discs at the front and 410mm discs at the rear.

Exterior enhancements include new bumpers, a wider rear track, aerodynamic attachments, and a fixed boot lid spoiler. The vehicle rides on 22-inch Manthey Racing alloy wheels, and buyers can choose between Pirelli P-Zero or Trofeo RS tires.

A New Direction Under Walliser

The Supersports represents a deliberate push towards performance under the leadership of CEO Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, who joined Bentley from Porsche last year. The company aims to balance its luxury heritage with high-performance capabilities, as evidenced by its past successes in both state limousines and motorsport (including a Le Mans win).

“Supersports was about pushing us further in the performance direction,” according to Bentley communications chief Wayne Bruce. “It’s surprised people, and it’s good to surprise.”

The limited availability and radical focus of this model suggest Bentley is testing the boundaries of its brand identity. The Supersports is designed to reignite excitement among enthusiasts and attract new customers seeking uncompromising performance.

Bentley’s decision to revive the Supersports moniker with such a raw, track-focused approach signals a commitment to performance engineering alongside its traditional luxury offerings. The vehicle’s scarcity and aggressive design are likely to make it a collector’s item even before the first deliveries begin.