Bentley Continental Supersports 2026: 657 HP RWD Review

The Bentley Continental Supersports redefines what a grand tourer can achieve, merging unparalleled luxury with supercar-level dynamics. This latest iteration stands as Bentley’s quickest production car, delivering blistering acceleration, innovative engineering, and a rear-wheel-drive layout that prioritizes pure driving engagement. Engineered for enthusiasts who demand both refinement and raw excitement, it combines a potent V8 powertrain with significant weight reductions and advanced chassis tech.

Powertrain Evolution: From W12 to V8 Dominance

At the heart of the Supersports beats a **4.0-liter twin-turbo V8** producing **666 PS (657 HP)** and **800 Nm (590 lb-ft)** of torque. This marks a shift from the iconic W12 engines of past models, embracing a lighter, more responsive setup without hybrid assistance for unfiltered performance. Bigger turbos, reinforced crankcase, and upgraded cylinder heads enable this output, ensuring explosive response across the rev range.

A full-length **Akrapovič titanium exhaust** amplifies the V8’s roar with authentic, unamplified sound—no synthetic enhancements here. Paired with a ZF eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, gear shifts are sharper and more immediate, transforming power delivery into seamless surges.

This powertrain not only outpaces predecessors but also rivals hypercars, with a broad torque curve available from low revs for effortless overtaking and highway cruising.

Chassis and Handling: Lightweight Agility Meets Precision

Bentley has shed over **300 kg** compared to prior Continentals, making this the **lightest Bentley in 85 years** at under 2,000 kg. The **first-ever rear-wheel-drive** configuration for a Continental GT unlocks playful dynamics, ditching all-wheel drive for better balance and driver involvement.

Advanced **torque-vectoring** via brake application—borrowed and refined from the GT3-R—enhances cornering poise without complex differentials. It subtly applies brakes to the inside rear wheel, sharpening turn-in and reducing understeer. Carbon-ceramic brakes, standard issue, save 22 kg while delivering fade-free stopping power, with 60-0 mph in around 109 feet.

The air-spring suspension offers tunable modes from Comfort to Sport, maintaining composure over rough surfaces while firming up for track duty. Lowered by 0.1 inches and with retuned anti-roll bars, it exhibits neutral balance, minimal body roll, and surprising agility despite its grand tourer proportions. Optional **Pirelli Trofeo RS tires** enable 1.3g cornering grip, generating over 300 kg of downforce at speed.

• Rear-biased torque split (in AWD modes of past models): Promotes rotation on throttle.
• Retuned steering: Quick, direct, with reduced mass feel.
• Body control: Flattens crests and bumps for high-speed stability.

Drivers report a neutral chassis that invites trail-braking and power oversteer, far from the nose-heavy tendencies of earlier heavyweights.

Design and Aerodynamics: Aggressive Yet Elegant

The Supersports’ exterior screams performance with a wider stance, aggressive front splitter, and massive rear diffuser. Carbon fiber accents and 21-inch wheels clad in performance rubber complete the look, while active aero elements generate substantial downforce without compromising the signature Bentley silhouette.

Inside, it’s a haven of luxury: two bespoke seats trimmed in diamond-quilted leather and Alcantara, with Sparco-inspired bolstering for support during hard driving. Though thinly padded for weight savings, they remain comfortable for long hauls. The cabin blends traditional wood veneers with digital interfaces, though the infotainment screen lags behind rivals in size.

Practicality persists with a usable boot, but the focus is firmly on the driving experience—only two seats ensure weight distribution favors the rear.

Performance Benchmarks: Numbers That Stun

Bentley’s claims are backed by real-world testing. The 3.7-second 0-62 mph sprint matches or beats many supercars, propelled by that vast torque plateau. Top speed hits 192 mph, limited by aerodynamics, while 0-100 mph arrives in 7.2 seconds—1.7 seconds quicker than the prior Supersports.

On track, it shines: quick slalom responses, stable high-speed braking, and agility that belies its size. No tire smoke on launch, just linear progression thanks to sophisticated traction control.

Luxury and Refinement: Grand Touring Redefined

Despite its credentials, the Supersports retains Bentley’s wafting ride in Comfort mode, ironing out imperfections while preserving feedback. It’s a **six-litre contradiction**: gentlemanly cruiser by day, caddish hoon by night.

Noise insulation is exemplary, with the exhaust’s bellow only intruding when desired. Four modes let drivers dial in the personality, from serene to savage.

Comparisons: How It Stacks Up

It cedes little to rivals in straight-line speed but excels in usability and luxury.

Pricing and Ownership

Expect a starting price around £170,000-£250,000, reflecting bespoke options. Maintenance suits high-end ownership, with unlimited-mileage warranties on earlier models setting the standard. Fuel economy hovers at 14 mpg combined, prioritizing thrill over efficiency.

FAQs

What makes the 2026 Supersports unique?

It’s Bentley’s first RWD Continental, lightest in decades, with 666 HP V8 and Akrapovič exhaust for pure driver focus.

Is it comfortable for daily driving?

Yes, tunable suspension ensures a plush ride in Comfort mode, with exemplary refinement.

How does it handle compared to past models?

More agile and neutral, thanks to weight savings, torque vectoring, and RWD layout.

What’s the top speed and acceleration?

192 mph top speed; 0-62 mph in 3.7 seconds.

Any hybrid tech?

No, pure ICE V8 for unadulterated performance.

Why the Supersports Matters

In an era of electrification, the Supersports champions internal combustion with V8 fury, proving luxury and speed coexist without compromise. It’s for those who value heritage, innovation, and the joy of driving above all.