2019 Bentley Continental GT Convertible Review

The 2019 Bentley Continental GT Convertible represents the pinnacle of grand touring elegance, transforming Bentley’s iconic coupe into a roofless masterpiece that prioritizes sensory indulgence without sacrificing dynamic capability. This third-generation model introduces refined engineering that elevates open-air driving to new heights, combining a thunderous powertrain with whisper-quiet refinement.

Striking Design and Aerodynamic Excellence

Bentley’s design team crafted the Continental GT Convertible with a longer, lower profile that accentuates its muscular stance. By repositioning the front wheels 135mm forward, the bonnet stretches elegantly, lowering the nose for a predatory look that demands attention. The Z-fold fabric roof retracts in just 19 seconds at speeds up to 30-31mph, folding away silently without the typical mechanical clamor, preserving the car’s sleek lines even topless.

With the roof up, wind resistance remains minimal, matching the coupe’s refinement levels despite a 20% lighter yet still substantial body weighing 2,414kg. A five percent increase in structural stiffness over the predecessor minimizes flex, ensuring composure on undulating roads. This engineering feat allows the convertible to look even more graceful roof-down, its flowing curves and massive 22-inch wheels exuding old-world charm fused with modern precision.

Powertrain: W12 Mastery Redefined

At the heart lies Bentley’s 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine, delivering 626 horsepower at 6,000rpm and a staggering 900Nm (664lb ft) of torque from as low as 1,350rpm through 4,500rpm. This layout packs V12 smoothness into a compact footprint, enabling seamless integration into the grand tourer’s proportions.

Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic and all-wheel drive, it propels the 2.4-tonne behemoth from 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds (0-62mph in 3.8), topping out at 207mph—figures identical to the coupe despite the open-top configuration. The delivery is creamy and lag-free; in Comfort or Bentley modes, it whispers away with effortless surge, shrugging off its weight as if it were a lightweight sports car.

Sport mode unleashes a more vocal exhaust note and sharper responses, though it introduces slight structural wobble with the roof down—contained admirably by active anti-roll bars and the world’s largest production car brakes.

Chassis Dynamics: Surprisingly Agile

Despite its mass, the Continental GT Convertible handles with poise thanks to three-chamber air suspension, four-wheel steering, and active anti-roll technology. It glides over imperfections like a magic carpet, maintaining flat cornering even on twisty routes. The suspension firms up in Sport for better body control, though the convertible’s inherent flex is more evident open-topped.

• Key Handling Features: Active anti-roll keeps the body flat; massive brakes provide unshakeable stopping power; four-wheel steering enhances low-speed maneuverability.
• Ride quality excels in Comfort mode, absorbing bumps with sublime isolation.
• Grip from wide tires on 22-inch wheels is immense, though steering feedback is muted for grand touring comfort.

Reviewers note it dances through mountain switchbacks effortlessly, proving Bentley’s blend of luxury and sportiness remains intact.

Interior Opulence and Practicality

Step inside, and you’re enveloped in bespoke luxury: hand-stitched leather, wood veneers, and knurled controls elevate every surface. Rear seats exist but prioritize occasional use, with limited space typical of 2+2 coupes. The boot shrinks to 250 liters with the roof stowed—half the coupe’s capacity—limiting luggage for long trips.

Yet, the cabin’s craftsmanship sets it apart, with near-silent operation roof-up and manageable wind noise down at highway speeds. Technological touches like rotating displays and intuitive infotainment enhance the experience without overwhelming the analog feel.

Driving Experience Across Modes

Bentley offers multiple modes: Comfort for serene cruising, Bentley for optimized balance, and Sport for engagement. Comfort mode suits most owners, delivering muted engine notes and plush ride. Sport sharpens throttle and shifts but transmits more road energy, highlighting the convertible’s slight chassis flex.

Open-top driving amplifies the W12’s character, with enhanced exhaust symphony and fresh air immersion. The 19-second roof operation at speed adds spontaneity, perfect for sunny British roads or coastal cruises.

Ownership Considerations

Priced from around £175,100 (RRP in 2019), it’s an exclusive proposition with high running costs, poor CO2 emissions, and optional rather than standard safety tech. Reliability has been a weak point for Continental models historically, per expert ratings. Fuel economy hovers in the low teens mpg, but the deep performance reserve justifies it for those seeking prestige.

• Pros: Unrivaled luxury, potent acceleration, refined roof mechanism, impressive handling for weight.
• Cons: Limited boot/rear space, high costs, some optional safety features.

Comparisons and Market Position

Against rivals like the Ferrari Portofino or Aston Martin DB11 Volante, the Bentley prioritizes comfort over raw sportiness, winning on grandeur and all-weather usability. Its W12 refinement outshines V8 alternatives, though hybrids loom on the horizon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How fast does the 2019 Bentley Continental GT Convertible accelerate?

It reaches 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds, powered by a 626bhp W12 engine.

Can the roof operate while driving?

Yes, it folds or raises in 19 seconds at up to 30mph, silently and smoothly.

Is the convertible as stiff as the coupe?

It’s five percent stiffer than its predecessor and matches coupe refinement, with minimal flex.

What is the top speed?

207mph, identical to the coupe despite the added weight.

How practical is the boot space?

250 liters with roof down—adequate for weekend bags but smaller than the coupe’s.

Final Verdict

The 2019 Bentley Continental GT Convertible excels as a luxurious open-top cruiser, blending Herculean performance with peerless comfort. It’s not the nimblest sports car, but for those valuing image, quality, and effortless power, it’s unmatched.