New Bentley Drop-Top Going into Production

It's easy to see the similarities in the current Arnage, which experienced a front fascia design update and

The Arnage sedan, the basis for the new Drophead Coupe, comes in a variety of trim levels, from the luxury-oriented R, RL and Limousine models, the latter only available in Europe, to the sport-oriented T series (shown). (Photo: Bentley Motors)

enhancements to the interior for the 2005 model year. The Arnage sedan, the basis for the new Drophead Coupe, comes in a variety of trim levels, from the luxury-oriented R, RL and Limousine models, the latter only available in Europe, to the sport-oriented T series. It's one of the most revered sedans, sharing the luxury premium segment with Rolls-Royce and Maybach only, and holds its own among this rarified company, and then some. From its finely detailed, handcrafted interior, to its graciously sculpted body panels, no rival bests it for quality or luxury appointments.

GM isn't saying the order in which its various brands and models will get the

The new Drophead Coupe takes all that's good about the sedan and marries it to a two-door, open-top car. (Photo: Bentley Motors)

badge, but in time every car the General sells in North America will wear it.

What it has over its rivals is stimulating performance. Bentley has always been a driver's car first and foremost, despite offering a flagship limousine model with the sole purpose of pampering rear-seat passengers. From the phenomenally potent Continental GT coupe, to any Arnage model, powerful engines and nimble chassis' are mated to driver-oriented cockpits, featuring ideally positioned controls and instruments.

Now, the new Drophead Coupe, Bentley-speak for convertible by the way, will take all that's good about the sedan and marry it to a two-door, open-top car. The first cars are expected to roll out of Crewe's production facility in about a year's time, and when they do the droptop Arnage will position itself as the world's most prestigious four-seat convertible.