The Appeal of True "Fine Things"

Groundbreaking. The English adjective, used to mean pioneering or revolutionary, felt perfectly apt when the Bentley "Continental GT" debuted in 2003.

The drivetrain, combining a powerful W12 engine with a full-time 4WD system, and the styling that masterfully balanced strength with elegance. It was truly impressive.

Even after 120 years of automobile manufacturing, with countless new models launched each year, I was astonished that there was still room for such an innovative model to emerge.

The voluminous front section tapers sharply towards the rear, while the rear fenders flare out, creating a long rear overhang. This is a proportion that only truly talented designers can achieve.

The details are meticulously crafted. Take the radiator grille, for example. The mesh is formed by numerous panels interwoven in a cross pattern, with each piece individually shaped and curved differently. The result is a beautiful surface. Few manufacturers could replicate this.

That impression remains unchanged through model updates. It fulfills the desire for speed while offering a sense of exclusivity, in the best sense of the word, reserved for a select few. It precisely grasps what is demanded of this car. This must be the true appeal of "fine things."

Fine things can be described as providing customers with what they need, in a superior form—sometimes beyond what they might have expected. The arrival of the Continental GT was precisely that, and the same can be said for "United Arrows," a pioneer in Japanese select shops.

Bentley, along with "United Arrows," can be considered lifestyle brands in the sense that they enrich our lives. Since its founding in 1989, United Arrows has consistently offered not only the cut and tailoring of its apparel but also meticulously selected materials, weaves, and colors.

While authentic items are crafted with utmost attention to detail, contemporary products showcase a spirit of playfulness. The curated selection within the store creates a magnificent world, which is part of its charm.

Page 2.A Lifestyle Brand Stays True to Life

A Lifestyle Brand Stays True to Life

"A person's life isn't one-dimensional, is it? Even if you wear a dark suit for work, a flashy jacket can make you feel more festive for parties, right?"

This is according to Tetsuya Iwaki, who entered the fashion industry as a part-time student employee at Beams, later becoming a founding member and representative director of United Arrows. He is currently an advisor but remains involved in daily operations.

"United Arrows carries flashy suits for those occasions, which led to us being jokingly called 'the chimedon-ya of Classico Italia' in the past. But I believe a lifestyle brand is one that truly stays true to people's lives."

Personally, I feel a certain kinship between Bentley and United Arrows. This is likely because, as Mr. Iwaki's words suggest, they offer products based on the understanding that humans (and their lives) are multifaceted.

The Continental GT Mr. Iwaki test drove for this feature is a "Burnt Orange" metallic with a "New Market Tan" interior. I was impressed that this resort-spec, which evokes excitement from every angle, is a combination that only Bentley could create.

Conversely, while the interior might be bright and cheerful, the exterior can be a subdued dark color. Bentley also excels at models that wouldn't look out of place when seeking a loan from a bank.

"I began to pay attention to Bentley again precisely when the Continental GT debuted. What I found slightly similar to our own philosophy is their approach to product development, adapting thoughtfully to the changing times."

Mr. Iwaki said this as he walked around the Continental GT during the photoshoot, as if to convince himself.

"While creating products based on one's convictions is important, clinging to the past and turning away from the times means you cannot survive. I believe Bentley understands the importance of walking alongside its customers."

Page 3.Bentley Suits Those Who Enjoy Life

Bentley Suits Those Who Enjoy Life

Opening the large coupe door and settling into the well-cushioned, body-hugging seats, I pressed the engine start button. Initially, a crisp engine note echoed, but it soon settled into a remarkably quiet idle.

Engaging the gear and setting off, I was surprised by the nimble acceleration, making me question if this was truly a heavy car, over 4.8 meters long and weighing more than two tons.

The accelerator pedal requires only light pressure, and the steering wheel, also lightly tuned in normal driving modes, responds instantly. This allows you to experience a sensation akin to driving a lightweight sports car.

Yet, at high speeds, the ride becomes remarkably smooth, highlighting its comfort, which significantly reduces fatigue on long journeys as a grand tourer.

This car's appeal also lies in its ability to embrace a wide range of people, regardless of gender or age. Both vibrant young individuals and those with more life experience seem perfectly at home in the driver's seat of the Continental GT.

It is truly a lifestyle car. It suits anyone who enjoys life. "Bentley is a pleasure to drive," says Mr. Iwaki, and I believe this perfectly captures its essence.

The word "comfortable" is used for the feel of clothes and the ride of a car. Both are crucial elements. Those who resonate with the world of United Arrows' clothing will likely appreciate Bentley, and vice versa. When you can wear fine things and drive fine things, life becomes richer.

Bentley Continental GT Speed
Body Dimensions: Length 4,820 x Width 1,945 x Height 1,400 mm
Wheelbase: 2,745 mm
Vehicle Weight: 2,360 kg
Engine: 5,998cc W12 DOHC Twin-Turbo
Bore x Stroke: 84.0 x 90.2 mm
Compression Ratio: 9.0
Max Output: 472 kW (642 ps) / 5,900 rpm
Max Torque: 840 Nm / 2,000 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed AT (Dual Clutch)
Drivetrain: 4WD
Tires (Front/Rear): 275/35R21
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 4.2 seconds
Max Speed: 331 km/h
Minimum Turning Radius: 5.65 meters
Trunk Capacity: 358 liters
Fuel Economy (EU): 14.6 L/100km (approx. 6.8 km/L)
CO2 Emissions: 338 g/km
Price: 27.1 million yen

• Bentley Continental GT Details