Bentley Owners Club

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BENTLEY’S GREAT WINTER DRIVING ADVENTURE

January 27th, 2012

dave787

POWER ON ICE heads for Finland, 5-26 February 2012

High-adrenaline ice driving with the 198mph, all-wheel drive Continental GT
A unique, luxury winter break with Bentley in Lapland

(Crewe/Finland. 25 January, 2012). Whether you have a passion for speed and a desire to put your driving skills to the ultimate test – or you’re simply seeking an exclusive, luxury winter break with a twist – Bentley’s Power on Ice adventure is set to deliver.

Next month Bentley is returning to the idyllic, far-north of Finland – a location where it has shattered two ice speed driving records with the four-time World Rally Champion Juha Kankkunen – to offer guests the chance to enjoy driving the 6.0 litre 567bhp (575PS) Continental GT coupe and the 621bhp (630PS) ultra high performance Continental Supersports coupe on one of the world’s most unusual and challenging test tracks.

“The circuits are crafted from snow and ice and are unlike any other track or road you have seen before,” says Peter Barnes a senior instructor with Bentley Driving.

“Power on Ice mixes the pure exhilaration of slaloming a Bentley supercar on a purpose-built course or taking a spin around a ‘figure of eight’ track, with the opportunity to acquire advanced techniques from a personal instructor, that will enable drivers to handle their cars with confidence even in the harshest weather conditions,” Peter explains.

Bentley’s record-breaking exploits in Finland have captured many people’s imagination and provided the inspiration for this unique driving experience. Bentley’s Continental range is ideally suited for winter driving with their state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling on all road surfaces and in all weathers.

The power split for the all-wheel drive system has a 40:60 rear bias for sporting handling and spirited mid-corner acceleration. However, it can adjust the power split instantaneously between the front and rear wheels depending on the available grip. The sophisticated Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system provides additional security and grip whatever the driving style.

In February 2011, Finnish motorsport legend Juha Kankkunen, driving the all-wheel drive Continental Supersports Convertible on the frozen Baltic Sea, achieved an astonishing speed of 205.48 mph (330.695 km/h) eclipsing his own ice speed record of 199.83 mph (321.6 km/h) set in 2007 in the original Continental GT.

“As well as drawing inspiration from Juha’s world records, Bentley’s engineers and professional drivers have used Finland’s extreme conditions to enhance the safety and handling capabilities of our cars. We’ve got a great deal of knowledge and expertise to share but the accent for Power on Ice will always be on fun and taking part in something far more memorable than a normal skiing holiday,” adds Peter.

After a hard day of high-speed ‘slaloming’ Bentley’s high-performance supercars, there is the chance to indulge in some well-deserved luxury at the mountainside Ruka Peak hotel. Fine dining in front of roaring open fires, relaxing in the sauna, as well as taking the odd shopping trip or ‘husky-powered’ nature excursion across frozen lakes is all part of the Bentley experience.

And for those guests seeking the chance to escape from the crowd for a few days, the cottages and apartments in the grounds of the Ruka Peak hotel, all furnished in traditional Scandinavian style, offer welcome and additional privacy and space.

The Bentley Power on Ice adventure is open to all driving enthusiasts and for detailed information about available dates, accommodation options and pricing please join us at http://www.bentleymotors.com/world_of_bentley/power_on_ice_2012/

A POTENT PRESENCE – OPENING OF BENTLEY LYON

January 27th, 2012

dave787

Berlin / Lyon, 24^th January 2012: Bentley today announced the opening of its 33^rd showroom in Europe and the third dealership in France, reflecting the growing strength of the high luxury automotive marque. Partnering with the performance and prestige automotive experts of the SOGESA Group, Bentley’s new showroom will attract customers throughout France’s Rhône-Alpes Region.

With sales of Bentleys bouncing back to pre-recession levels, the British carmaker is looking to broaden its presence not just in new markets, but in established ones as well. Bentley’s new showroom in Lyon will be responsible for both sales and after-sales and will be operated by the successful Passion Automobiles Prestige dealership group owned by the SOGESA Group.

Whilst the current showroom remains temporary as the site is expanded to ensure the very highest levels of customer service, potential clients and customers can still expect signature Bentley hospitality. The full model range is on display and customers can specify the myriad features, colours and materials of their new Bentley. Extensive investments in 2012 will lead to an extension of the present building. The result will be an impressive Bentley showroom dedicated to new car sales and a second showroom for Bentley Pre-Owned.

The driving force behind the new venue in Lyon is Joël Schmidt, who created and developed the luxury automotive distributor SOGESA more than 35 years ago. Obsessed with quality and service in this challenging segment, the group has consistently received very high customer satisfaction scores.

Welcoming the partnership with SOGESA, Guillaume Chabin, Bentley’s Regional Director Europe commented:

“Undoubtedly the power, performance and luxury of our models are a key part of our success but so too is the authenticity of the Bentley name. With our flagship Bentley Mulsanne and the second generation Bentley Continental GT and GTC – which are now also available with a 4.0 Litre V8 engine as well as the unmatched 6.0 W12 – we have a strong position. We look forward to working with the team at Bentley Lyon, whose understanding of the prestige sports car market makes them ideal partners for us.”

Asked about the investment, Schmidt responded: “Certainly the times are challenging, but the investment is a long-term commitment to the Bentley brand. This is a luxury carmaker growing by over 37% and with significant further development potential. There will always be customers for this level of traditional craftsmanship and innovation.”

In 2011 SOGESA sold more than 1500 new and pre-owned cars. Managing the group and the launch of Bentley Lyon are Emmanuel Cuenot, General Director, and Bruno Winterstein, Administrative and Financial Director.

BENTLEY MULSANNE AND CONTINENTAL GT MAINTAIN AWARD WINNING FORM

January 27th, 2012

dave787

Bentley Owners Club

(Crewe. 24 January 2012). Bentley Motors has started 2012 with four more honours, from China’s highly-influential Hurun Report, The World Luxury Association as well as The Detroit News, maintaining the company’s award-winning form in 2011.

The Bentley Continental GT coupe triumphed in China winning the ‘Best Super Luxury Car’ at the Hurun Report’s Best of the Best 2012 awards and the Bentley Continental FlyingSpur saloon secured the coveted Limited Edition Super Luxury Car title.

In a unique collaboration with the famous British design company Linley, Bentley created 10 Continental Flying Spurs, exclusively for the Chinese marketplace, which feature specially selected veneers in Santos rosewood applied to the fascia, console, waistrail and roof console.

Widely recognised as the foremost authority on the rapid changes taking place amongst China’s high net worth individuals, the Hurun Reportproduces 20 magazine issues a year, made up of a monthly main book and supplements that target the special interests of China’s wealth creators.

The World Luxury Association also confirmed Bentley’s place amongst the world’s Top 100 Most Valuable Luxury Brands at their recent awards ceremony in Beijing, dubbed the “Luxury Oscar Awards.” Bentley lined up alongside Prada, Cartier, Chanel, Bugatti and Harley-Davidson in the exclusive rankings.

In the United States, for the second time the Bentley Mulsanne received the annual Readers’ Choice award for the ‘Most Luxurious’ vehicle from The Detroit News. Each year, the newspaper takes 100 readers to Detroit’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) and asks them to select the most appealing vehicles in a variety of categories.It is also the only NAIAS award chosen by consumers.

The award maintains a rich vein of form around the world for the Mulsanne. Bentley’s flagship is the current holder of the Robb Reportmagazine’s ‘Best of the Best’ award (secured at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show) and also was chosen by Centurion Magazine readers as their outstanding Best Limousine/Saloon Car. Centurion is the international luxury lifestyle magazine for holders of the most exclusive charge card from American Express^®, the Centurion^® Card. The Mulsanne has also secured awards from Gulf Connoisseur magazine as well asCAR Middle East.

Used cars Nottingham

January 17th, 2012

dave787

Finding a used car dealership is as simple as A, B, C! For example if you were looking for vehicles in the Nottingham area, simply type ‘Used cars Nottingham’ into your search engine and you would be flooded with results such as motors.co.uk.

This procedure will allow you to see exactly which garages and dealerships are around you. Buying a car that is closer to home is a great option and is much better than purchasing one further a field.

This way you will be able to revisit the garage several times in order to ensure you have chosen the right motor.

You will also be able to either get the help of a professional person or take it to a garage in order to check the motor over. They will be able to give it a thorough once over, which will in turn allow you to see whether it has any underlying faults.

Knowing help is at hand is a great incentive for those that are unsure of the ins and outs of any motor to buy a used vehicle.

Used vehicles are a must for those that just don’t have the budget to invest in a brand new vehicle. New vehicles tend to lose their value as soon as they leave the showroom. This is a great incentive for car customers to invest in used vehicles. It is also a great way to save a few pennies!

Of course with used vehicles come a few risks. These risks can be overcome however, if you read up on what to look for. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as possible. It is after all an expensive investment and a big commitment to buy a new vehicle.

Searching online is the easiest way to begin your search. For example if you were looking for a used car in the Nottingham area, simply type ‘Used cars Nottingham’ into the search engine.

THE NEW BENTLEY CONTINENTAL V8 RANGE

December 12th, 2011

dave787

New Continental GT and GTC V8 models will debut at the North American International Auto Show, Detroit (January 2012)
Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio combined with classic Bentley power and torque from new 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine
Fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to a new powertrain delivering a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO₂emissions
Advanced technologies include direct injection, variable displacement, new close-ratio 8-speed transmission and all wheel-drive
New Continental V8 model range complements the flagship 6.0 litre W12 GT and GTC

(Crewe 12^th December, 2011) Two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on 9th January 2012.

The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.

This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500bhp (507PS/373Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a sub-5 second acceleration time for the 0-60 mph (0-100km/h) sprint and a top speed of over 180mph (290km/h).

At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800km) on a single tank of fuel. Full and official figures will be released in early 2012.

The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions.

The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.

The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.

The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.

The new V8 engine will be available in two models; the Continental GT and the Continental GTC. Expressing their potent, muscular character, these models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B’ badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.

At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B’ bootlid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s.

Both models are specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with an optional 21-inch six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes.

Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.

The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre,12-cylinder engined Continental GT and GTC, which continue to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631bhp (640PS).

Both new models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.

Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley’s factory in Crewe, England, the largest producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate expression of Bentley’s engineering strength.

Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors said:

“With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine will have all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic ‘wave of torque’. This is complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and emissions.”

THE NEW CONTINENTAL V8 MODELS

Distinctive sporting style

Gloss black matrix grille with bright chrome surround and divider
Three-segment lower bumper with black air intakes and striking body-coloured dividers
Dark rear lower valance
Distinctive twin ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes
Red enamel Bentley winged ‘B’ badges above the front grille, to the bootlid and wheel centres
7 exterior colours offered in standard range

Sporty, contemporary interior

New Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneer unique to the V8 models
Eliade cloth headlining and pillar trim
Short centre console in place of W12 through-console
4 hide colours offered in standard range
Unique two-tone leather colour split
3 hood colours (Continental GTC)

Exhilarating, efficient new 4.0 litre V8 engine

Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio reflecting engine efficiency
Variable displacement (a technology first proven on the Mulsanne) imperceptibly cuts 4 cylinders on cruise and light throttle
Switchable engine mounts ensure refinement
Engine optimisation technologies boost efficiency
New, close-ratio, 8-speed transmission offers 6 per cent efficiency gain with ultra-fast shifts
Turbochargers mounted within ‘V’ for efficiency and fast response
Over 500 miles (800km) range on one tank of fuel
Distinctive V8 growl
All-wheel drive system with 40:60 rear biased torque split

The New Sound of Bentley

December 5th, 2011

dave787

Welcome to the new sound of Bentley — a stirring and thunderous soundtrack and the prelude to a potent new Bentley driving experience that begins in 2012. And for a first glimpse of things to come.

The New Bentley Continental GTC reveal film

December 5th, 2011

dave787

The new Bentley Continental GTC.

Progressive, sharp and muscular. Elegant and sporty. The very essence of a modern Bentley.

The designers responsible for the Continental GTC talk about the ‘face’ of a Bentley; those instantly recognisable bonnet line, matrix mesh grille, and twin inner large headlamps. It’s a design DNA that can be traced back to Le Mans.

Yas Island Driving

December 5th, 2011

dave787

The Continental Supersports and Continental Flying Spur Speed were put through their paces by up to 130 specially invited guests from throughout the Middle East and India.
They were joined on Abu Dhabi’s world-renowned Formula One race track by the historic ‘Bentley Blower’

New James Bond Book Lifts the roof at ST Pancras International

December 5th, 2011

dave787

The first copies of the eagerly awaited new Bond book, Carte Blanche, arrived in style at St Pancras International in London Today (Wednesday 25 May 2011). Copies of the book by the best-selling American thriller writer Jeffery Deaver, published in the UK tomorrow by Hodder & Stoughton, were delivered by the Royal Marine Commandos in a stunning display involving abseiling, a fast car and a beautiful Bond Girl on a motorbike.

BREITLING FOR BENTLEY: COOL AND CHIC – THE ICE-SPEED RECORD WATCH

November 29th, 2011

dave787

29th November 2011 - Inspired by Juha Kankkunen’s world-record breaking exploits on the ice, Bentley and Breitling have once again combined British chic and Swiss tradition to create a limited edition chronograph to mark this grand achievement.

Bentley’s most potent and radically-styled convertible ever – the 202mph (325km/h) Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ convertible – is a celebration of the world ice speed record set by Finland’s four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen in a Bentley Continental Supersports convertible.

The ISR Supersports convertible – just 100 cars will be produced – provides the inspiration for the new timepiece. The Supersports Ice Speed Record commemorative watch is the perfect embodiment of the two companies’ shared passion for prestige and performance. This remarkable combination of handcrafted technology and striking aesthetics is also restricted to 100 and is only available without charge to those who buy the car.

Driving the all-wheel drive, biofuel-powered 6-litre, 12-cylinder Continental Supersports convertible on the perilous frozen Baltic Sea, off the coast of Finland, Kankkunen achieved a speed of 205.48 mph (330.695 km/h) eclipsing his own ice speed record of 199.83 mph (321.6 km/h) set in 2007 in the Continental GT.

Look closer, and you’ll see the watch shares many of the same design cues as the limited edition extreme Bentley. The distinctive red detailing. The carbon fibre fascia with dashboard-style dial. The classically knurled finish on the control buttons. Even the carbon fibre presentation box. All combine to create a unique and original timepiece like no other.

Wolfgang Duerheimer, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, said:

“Juha Kankkunen’s drive was a remarkable achievement and worthy of a very special car. The Continental Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ is a true driver’s car that captures that unique Bentley spirit. It offers extreme performance, agility and an extrovert personality, while retaining the refinement, handcrafted luxury and comfort our customers expect.”

It is no coincidence that both watch and car are personalised with the same engraved number, upholding the renowned and time-honoured tradition of genuine exclusivity of both Breitling and Bentley. Highly sought. Pure Bentley and Breitling through and through.

Limited edition Supersports Ice Speed Record chronograph specification

MOVEMENT:

• Breitling Calibre 27B • Officially chronometer-certified by the COSC • Self-winding • High-frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour) • 38 jewels • 1/4th of a second chronograph • Central 60-minute totaliser • Combined 60-minute and 12-hour totaliser • Calendar

CASE:

• Titanium case with special engraving on reverse • Dial with carbon fibre weave • Water resistant to 100m • Bidirectional rotating pinion bezel with variable tachometer (circular slide rule) • Cambered sapphire crystal face, glare proofed on both sides • Screw-locked crown • Diameter: 49mm

STRAP:

• Highly durable rubber

PRESENTATION BOX:

• Premium carbon fibre presentation box with a unique identification plaque