Bentley Continental GT Convertible 2019 Review

The third-generation Bentley Continental GT Convertible redefines luxury grand touring by combining effortless power, sumptuous comfort, and innovative engineering into one breathtaking package. Despite its substantial 2,414kg curb weight, this drop-top marvel accelerates from 0-60mph in just 3.7 seconds, courtesy of a 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine producing 626bhp and 900Nm of torque. Its Z-fold fabric roof retracts in 19 seconds at speeds up to 30mph, allowing drivers to savor the open sky without sacrificing refinement.

Design Excellence: Timeless Elegance Meets Modern Flair

Bentley’s designers crafted the Continental GT Convertible with a longer, lower profile that emphasizes its grand touring heritage. The front wheels sit 135mm further forward, extending the bonnet and lowering the nose for a more aggressive stance. Sweeping lines flow from the iconic matrix grille to the haunches, culminating in signature oval tail lights. With the roof stowed, the car’s silhouette becomes even more alluring, evoking classic coachbuilt elegance.

High-quality materials define the exterior: handcrafted details, optional diamond-quilted door panels, and 22-inch wheels shod in bespoke Pirelli tires. The convertible’s body is 20% lighter and 5% stiffer than its predecessor, thanks to advanced aluminum construction and strategic reinforcements. This ensures structural integrity even with the top down, minimizing flex during spirited drives.

• Key design highlights: Extended bonnet for presence; aerodynamic roof stowage; optional Mulliner styling pack with knurled accents.
• Paint options range from solid hues to deep pearlescents, enhancing the car’s jewel-like quality.
• LED matrix headlights with dynamic high-beam assist provide superior illumination.

Powertrain Mastery: W12 Refinement with Supercar Thrust

At the heart lies Bentley’s potent 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12, a compact V12 alternative delivering seamless power. Twin turbochargers spool quickly, banishing lag and unleashing 900Nm from low revs, propelling the hefty GT to a 207mph top speed. An eight-speed dual-clutch automatic shifts with creamy smoothness, prioritizing comfort in daily driving. All-wheel drive and torque vectoring ensure traction in all conditions.

Drive modes—Comfort, Bentley, and Sport—tailor the experience. Comfort mode whispers engine notes while shrugging off weight; Sport sharpens throttle and suspension for dynamic runs. The exhaust adds drama with the roof down, amplifying the W12’s sonorous growl.

Chassis Dynamics: Composed Handling for a Luxury Behemoth

Engineering feats enable this 2.4-tonne convertible to handle like a sports car. The world’s largest production brakes—420mm front rotors with 10-piston calipers—provide prodigious stopping power. Three-chamber air suspension adapts to loads, delivering a magic-carpet ride over imperfections. Active anti-roll bars keep the body flat in corners, countering the convertible’s inherent flex.

Steering is precise yet insulated, with massive grip from wide tires. On twisty roads, the GT Convertible flows effortlessly, its 5% stiffer chassis containing any wobble. Sport mode firms damping but can transmit more road energy roof-down. Refinement matches the fixed-roof coupe, with wind buffeting minimized by neck warmers and aero tweaks.

• Anti-roll tech flattens cornering stance.
• 20% lighter body aids agility.
• Air suspension excels on rough surfaces.

Interior Opulence: A Sanctuary of Craftsmanship

Step inside to a cabin rivaling private jets. Hand-stitched leather, open-pore woods, and knurled metal accents create a bespoke ambiance. The rotating display toggles between analog gauges, infotainment, or blank veneer. Rear seats, though tight, offer luxury for short journeys. Noise insulation is exemplary, with the W12 barely audible in Comfort mode.

Boot space shrinks to 250 litres roof-down (from 358 in the coupe), but a powered tonneau preserves style. Four-zone climate control and Naim audio elevate comfort. Tech includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, adaptive cruise, and night vision.

Practical Considerations: Luxury with Subtle Compromises

While peerless in grandeur, the GT Convertible demands consideration. Rear space suits occasional use; boot capacity limits luggage. Fuel economy hovers around 20mpg combined, befitting its power. Pricing starts over £175,000, escalating with options. Safety features like lane assist are optional, a quirk in modern terms.

Driving Experience: Grand Touring Perfected

On open roads, the Continental GT Convertible shines. Torque overwhelms inertia, air suspension soothes bumps, and the roof’s silence invites al fresco cruising. Urban maneuvers benefit from a tight turning circle and parking aids. High-speed stability is phenomenal, with brakes instilling confidence. It’s a car for epic journeys, blending hypercar pace with Rolls-Royce poise.

Compared to rivals like Aston Martin DB11 Volante or Ferrari Portofino, the Bentley prioritizes all-around usability over raw edge, securing its GT throne.

Technology and Innovation: Future-Proofed Luxury

Bentley integrates cutting-edge systems seamlessly. The Bentley Intelligent Park Assist self-parks; My Bentley app enables remote preconditioning. Chassis tech includes 48V active roll control and torque vectoring by brake. The roof mechanism is a engineering highlight, folding silently without drama.

Ownership Verdict: Worth the Investment?

For those seeking the ultimate open-top GT, the 2019 Continental GT Convertible justifies its premium. It advances every metric from prior models, delivering joy roof-up or down. Maintenance via Bentley’s network ensures longevity, with residual values strong among connoisseurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast is the 2019 Bentley Continental GT Convertible?

It reaches 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds and tops 207mph.

What’s the roof operation like?

Electric Z-fold roof deploys/retracts in 19 seconds up to 30mph, silently.

Is it practical for daily use?

Yes for grand touring, but rear/boot space is limited.

What engine powers it?

6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 with 626bhp/900Nm.

How does handling compare to the coupe?

Nearly identical, with 5% more stiffness containing flex.