Bentley will end production of its venerable W-12 engine in April 2024, and the limited-edition Batur coupe will be the last model to feature the engine.
Until then, however, you can still order a Bentley with a motor, including the new Speed Edition 12 models, which feature design elements that celebrate the motor.
It was revealed this week that there is a Speed Edition 12 version for each Bentayga, Continental GT, Continental GT convertible and Flying Spur model range, with production of all four variants limited to 120 examples worldwide.
As the name suggests, the Speed Edition 12 models are based on Bentley’s Speed level, with the power of their turbocharged 6.0-liter W-12 engines increased to 650 hp.
The cars featured a number of design enhancements, including unique badging, a numbered engine plate, and a dash with the W-12’s firing sequence etched alongside an inlaid “Edition 12” badge.
Buyers can choose from a range of exterior colors, including a new color developed for the car called Opalite. It is described as a mix of gray and green and has a subtle copper effect that can be seen in bright sunlight. All cars come with the Blackline package, which darkens the exterior chrome, along with 22-inch wheels and silver brake calipers.
Each car also comes with a scale model of the W-12 block, cast from aluminum taken from an actual W-12 engine.
Bentley first introduced the W-12 in 2003 with the Continental GT, and by the time production ends, Bentley estimates more than 105,000 will have been built. Bentley hasn’t revealed what powertrain will replace the W-12, though rumors point to a new plug-in hybrid system that includes a turbocharged V-8 internal combustion component.
