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    2013 Bentley Continental GT V8
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2013 Bentley Continental GT V8

Bentley has updated its Continental GT for the upcoming 2013 model year, showing off the auto makers new focus on efficient power and refined luxury.  The 2013 Bentley Continental GT V8 ditches the W12 engine of the last model for a twin-turbocharged V8 that pushes comparable power.  This 500 hp system will race to 60 mph in under five seconds, on its way to a top speed of nearly 180 mph.  With four less cylinders than 2011’s W12 Continental, Bentley has delivered an increase in fuel economy while maintaining a similar range of performance statistics that Bentley buyers will desire.

With the new Continental GT, Bentley went even further in its aims to provide efficiency.  The new model features a cylinder deactivation system which will use only four cylinders when carrying light loads at moderate speeds.  This keeps half of the V8 from burning any fuel unless it is needed for acceleration.  You wouldn’t expect a luxury car maker to provide such progressive green options, nor would you expect a luxury buyer to worry about the extra savings at the pump.  But for those buyers with a conscience or a willingness to keep costs low, this new, smarter Bentley is a serious upgrade.

The 2013 Bentley Continental GT V8 will begin rolling out of the factory late in 2012.  The price tag is not yet finalized, but a buyer could expect to pay slightly less than $200,000 for a GT V8 of their own. [via motorauthority]

2013 Bentley Continental GT V8 Gallery