What kind of engine is in a Bentley? From powerful V8 and W12 engines to hybrid options, our expert insights delve into the heart of these exquisite automobiles. Discover the harmonious blend of performance and sophistication that defines Bentley's engine lineup.

Which Bentley Models Have a W12 engine?

Bentley Continental GT

Considered one of the most iconic Bentley models, the Continental GT has been graced by the W12 engine since its introduction in 2003. 

This illustrious model, bearing the renowned twin-turbocharged, 12-cylinder engine, is a marvel of engineering prowess that blends both impressive power and exceptional luxury. 

Since its inception, the Bentley Continental GT has been the embodiment of what the W12 engine represents: performance, refinement, and technological innovation.

The Continental GT, along with its convertible sibling, sports the Speed Edition 12 badges on its front wing/fender, signifying its status in the W12 engine era. Its powerful build, coupled with the heritage of the W12 engine, has made it a truly unforgettable model in Bentley's history. 

From the emblem to the engine cover, every aspect of the Continental GT pays tribute to Bentley's historic W12 era.

Bentley Flying Spur

The Bentley Flying Spur, carrying the W12 emblem on its rear pillar, is another proud bearer of this powerful engine. 

Since 2005, the Flying Spur, driven by the W12 engine, has offered an unparalleled driving experience, boasting a unique blend of power, comfort, and style. This luxury saloon car has been an integral part of Bentley's W12 engine history, a testament to the brand's commitment to unparalleled power and precision.

The Bentley Flying Spur with its 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine has often been regarded as the powerful version of luxury and elegance in the world of cars. Over time, this model has emerged as a favourite among enthusiasts who appreciate the power of the W12 engine and the refinement of Bentley craftsmanship.

Bentley Bentayga

Making its mark in the realm of luxury SUVs, the Bentley Bentayga has been equipped with the W12 engine since its introduction in 2015. The Bentayga, with its twin-turbo W12 engine, has redefined the perception of luxury and power, setting new benchmarks in the SUV segment. The Speed Edition 12 badges adorn the rear pillars of this model, marking Bentley's tribute to the powerful W12 era.

This powerful SUV, riding on 22-inch wheels, delivers a smooth yet exhilarating driving experience. With more than 100,000 W12 engines built since its introduction, the Bentayga stands as a testament to Bentley's pioneering role in luxury SUVs.

Bentley Bacalar

Limited to just 12 units worldwide, the Bentley Bacalar is one of the most exclusive models sold by Bentley. Boasting a hand-built W12 engine, crafted meticulously in Crewe, England, each Bacalar is a celebration of Bentley's automotive heritage and the illustrious history of the W12 engine.

The Bacalar's W12 engine, known as the most advanced 12-cylinder engine in history, signifies Bentley's relentless pursuit of excellence. The entire process, requiring over 6.5 hours of production for each engine, is a testament to the time and skill invested by Bentley's artisans. The Bacalar, in its rarity and power, truly encapsulates the legacy of Bentley's W12 engine.

Which Bentley Models Have a W12 engine?

Which Bentley Models Have a V8 Engine?

Bentley Bentayga

The Bentley Bentayga, a model that marked Bentley's entry into the world of luxury SUVs, features a formidable V8 engine option. With performance figures that reflect the engine's power, the 2021 Bentayga V8 showcases the sophisticated engineering behind the Bentley brand. The Bentayga V8's engine is fitted with two twin-scroll turbochargers, providing an immediate response to the driver's demands and allowing the SUV to achieve a maximum speed of 180 mph.

It impressively sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. This powertrain delivers a maximum power of 542 BHP and a maximum torque of 770 Nm. Despite the eye-popping power, Bentley has ensured that the Bentayga V8 remains efficient with the integration of start-stop and variable displacement technologies.

Bentley Continental GT

The Continental GT, a true Bentley icon, similarly features a V8 engine equipped with two twin-scroll turbochargers. The 2021 model of the Continental GT V8 sees a significant reduction in weight compared to its predecessors. This lighter structure enables the Continental GT V8 to surpass the Bentayga in terms of both maximum speed and acceleration, reaching a top speed of 198 mph and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds.

Despite this boost in speed, it still maintains the same maximum power of 542 BHP and maximum torque of 770 Nm, identical to the Bentayga V8. This strategic reduction in weight has also led to enhanced traction and stability during acceleration, offering a driving experience characterised by balanced weight distribution and remarkable agility.

Bentley Flying Spur V8

Lastly, the Flying Spur V8, propelled by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, shares similar performance specifications with the Continental GT V8. 

The Flying Spur V8, a model that epitomises speed, agility, and the signature Bentley design, achieves a maximum speed of 198 mph, only a second shy of the Continental GT V8 in the 0-60 mph sprint, clocking in at 4.0 seconds.

Similar to the other two models, it also delivers a maximum power output of 542 BHP and a peak torque of 770 Nm. The key highlight of the Flying Spur V8 lies in its versatility. Bentley offers optional Electronic All-Wheel Steering for this model, which improves mobility at lower speeds by providing a smaller turning circle. 

The same technology also boosts stability at higher speeds, instilling confidence in the driver while overtaking and cornering.

Bentley Announces End to 12-Cylinder Engine Production

In a landmark move for the automobile industry, luxury car manufacturer Bentley has announced that it will bring the production of its iconic 12-cylinder W12 engine to a close by April 2024. This decision represents a key part of Bentley's ambitious "Beyond100" strategy, which reflects the company's acceleration towards a future shaped by sustainable practices.

Over its lifespan, more than 100,000 of these powerhouses will have been meticulously handcrafted at Bentley's Dream Factory, located in Crewe, England. This move towards the cessation of the W12 engine manufacturing marks a significant shift in Bentley's long-held engineering traditions, ushering in a new era of hybrid powertrain options available across all Bentley models.

However, the W12 is not bowing out without a grand finale. Bentley has concluded development on the most potent version of the W12 ever built. Destined exclusively for a limited run of 18 Bentley Batur models, this ultimate W12 iteration will deliver a remarkable 750 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque, making it the most powerful road-going Bentley ever constructed.

Introduced in 2002, Bentley's iconic 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine has undergone significant evolution over the past two decades. The most recent model of the W12 was released with the Bentayga in 2015, and it featured substantial enhancements, including a 30 per cent stronger crankcase and friction-reducing cylinder surface coatings.

The process of creating each W12 engine is a labour of love, involving a 6.5-hour assembly process by expert craftspeople. This is followed by a stringent and sophisticated testing regime, ensuring every Bentley W12 engine meets the highest standards of performance and reliability.

As the chapter closes on Bentley's production of the W12 engine, it's also a significant milestone in the automotive world. With over 105,000 engines produced in the W12 engine facility's 20-year history, Bentley's shift towards sustainability and electrification signals an exciting new era for the prestigious brand.