Who would have thought that a company founded on the humble Beetle would be the automotive powerhouse that it is today. Whether you are delighted or concerned over VW's recent acquisitions, that include both Bugatti and Lamborghini, they nevertheless deserve admiration. The first product to emerge from the new Crewe factory is the GT coupé featured in these black and white pictures. True to Bentley form the new car is large, capable of ensconcing four adults in comfort and whisking them away to a breathtaking 290 km/h (180 mph) top speed.
To accomplish this, the GT incorporates a 6-L, twin-turbocharged, 12-cylinder engine boasting a more than adequate 550-hp and a robust 675 lb-ft of torque at a mere 3,100 rpm. This is no ordinary 12-cylinder mind you. Consisting of a 'W' instead of 'V' formation, the new engine allows for increased displacement in a minimally sized package. Essentially two 15-degree V6 (or VR6) engines are combined with a common crankshaft. The staggered cylinders allow for its compact nature. This is based on the W12 that will power the new Audi A8 and Volkswagen Phaeton, but it will be manufactured in Bentley's Crewe, England factory.
The engine isn't all that the GT inherits from Ingolstadt though. In fact, the entire platform comes from the top-line Audi and VW sedans. This includes its all-wheel drive configuration and 6-speed paddle shifted sequential gearbox. Expect it to accelerate a little quicker than the German cars though. Despite its large stature, it should make 100 km/h from standstill in a scant 4.9 seconds - impressive. It shouldn't be a slouch in the corners either, due to a double wishbone suspension with electronic damping up front and a multi-link system with electronic damping in the rear.