Following the ditch of its iconic W12 engine, Bentley has introduced three more special editions to bid farewell to its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. The three special edition models are the "Edition 8" versions of the Continental GT, Continental GTC and Flying Spur. Available only in North America, these bespoke models pay homage to the exceptional V8 engines that have powered Bentley's iconic models for decades.
With the end of the W12, the twin-turbo V8 engine followed. Bentley plans to phase it out completely in Europe first, followed by the United States. Although it has died out in most models, it will continue to exist in the Bentayga for the time being.
Bentley says most of the Mulliner personalisation options are included on these models, starting with the Blackline variant, which can blacken the exterior trim. The 22-inch wheels are available in a 5-spoke or 10-spoke design, and these wheels also feature self-leveling wheel logos. Owners can choose from the Mulliner's expanded range of 60 paint colours, and the exterior also features LED welcome lights, jewel-style fuel caps and the Edition 8 logo.
Inside, these models offer comfort-spec seats with Palm Fluting design, making them even more unique than mainstream Bentley models. The interior is embroidered with the Edition 8 logo and features Bentley's signature rotating display.
In fact, Bentley didn't do away with its V8 engine entirely, but just transformed it into something new and brought it to the high-end market. Bentley says the new plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain will replace the iconic W12, and the entire Bentley range will be equipped with a hybrid system.
The new V8 hybrid system puts out 740 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque, up from the W12's 626 hp and 900 Nm. There is also an all-electric range of 80 km. Bentley plans to offer hybrid versions for all of its models this year. Going forward, Bentley will only offer V6 and V8 hybrid models. By 2033, Bentley plans to go fully electric.