Performance on par with the coupe

At the beginning of the press conference, Tim Mckinlay, Bentley Motors Japan Representative, stated, "In 2018, Bentley achieved over 10,000 global sales for the sixth consecutive year, and in Japan, we delivered a record 437 units to our customers, our second-highest ever. 2019 marks the 100th anniversary of the company's founding. 100 years ago, Walter Owen (W.O.) Bentley founded the company, and in 1921, produced the first production model, the '3 Litre,' in 19 units. Thanks to the generosity of the Wakui Museum, we are able to exhibit this car here today."

"The 'Continental GT Convertible' we are unveiling today is produced entirely in Britain, embodying the craftsmanship of Bentley, the maker of the world's finest grand tourers. Its captivating understated elegance, impeccable engineering, and the extraordinary capabilities of the new model are unparalleled, a testament to the proud British marque. We invite you to experience this GT."

The unveiled magenta Continental GT Convertible is powered by a 6.0-liter W12 TSI twin-turbo engine, producing a maximum output of 635ps at 6,000rpm and a peak torque of 900Nm between 1,350-4,500rpm.

Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, its top speed is officially stated as 333km/h, the same as the baseContinental GT Coupe, with 0-100km/h acceleration at 3.8 seconds, 0.1 seconds slower than the coupe. Thanks to the variable cylinder system, which deactivates half the engine under certain conditions to operate as a 6-cylinder, it achieves a fuel economy of 12.4ℓ/100km.

An open-top grand tourer with enhanced roof operation

The body of the new Continental GT Convertible is 20 percent lighter and 5 percent more rigid in torsion compared to the previous generation. The chassis features Bentley Dynamic Ride, an advanced 48V control system. By employing electronic actuators with quiet operation, instantaneous response, and ample power in the anti-roll bars of each axle, it allows for variable torsional resistance according to conditions, without sacrificing ride comfort for body control as in conventional systems. As a result, during cornering, Dynamic Ride instantly suppresses roll, maximizing tire contact and achieving a class-leading ride and exceptional handling.

The fabric convertible roof, a distinctive exterior feature exclusive to this model, folds in a Z-pattern and can be opened or closed in 19 seconds even while driving at speeds up to 50km/h (compared to 25 seconds at 30km/h for the previous generation). With a redesigned sealing system and sound insulation, cabin noise during cruising has been reduced by 3 decibels compared to the previous model. The roof is available in seven colors, including traditional British tweed patterns. The body color can be chosen from 17 standard colors, with up to 70 options available.

The 2+2 interior, designed for enjoying open-air driving, is equally meticulous. The cabin is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, featuring the finest natural leathers and rare wood panels sourced through environmentally conscious methods, used across more than 10 square meters.

The center console incorporates the same Rotating Display as the coupe. Upon entering, the driver is greeted by a wood veneer panel. Upon starting the engine, a 12.3-inch touchscreen digital display appears. A third option presents analog dials showing outside temperature, compass, and chronometer in a triple arrangement. Below this sits an analog clock, while switches and controls feature knurled and diamond-knurled finishes, exuding an aura of luxury.

To ensure enjoyment of all-season open-top grand touring, the Bentley's signature quilted comfort seats are equipped with seamlessly integrated neck warmers. Additionally, a heated steering wheel and newly designed heated center and door armrests are provided.

The price for the new Continental GT Convertible in Japan is ¥28.18 million. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2019.

Japan-exclusive Bentayga also unveiled

In addition, the "Bentayga A Limited Edition by Mulliner exclusively for Japan," a special edition limited to 10 units featuring Japanese Yosegi-zaiku (marquetry) in its interior, crafted by Mulliner, Bentley's bespoke division, was also presented. Deliveries are scheduled for the first quarter of 2019, with a price of ¥30.86 million.

At the venue, a Bentley 100th anniversary edition of the "Continental GT" was displayed, along with the Bentley's first production model, the "3 Litre," as mentioned by Mr. Mckinlay at the beginning.

Bentley Continental GT Convertible
Body Dimensions: Length 4,850 x Width 1,954 (mirrors folded) x Height 1,399mm
Wheelbase: 2,851 mm
Weight: 2,214 kg
Front/Rear Weight Distribution: 55:45
Engine: 6.0-liter W12 Twin-Turbo
Max. Output: 635ps / 6,000 rpm
Max. Torque: 900 Nm / 1,350-4,500 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed DCT
Drivetrain: 4WD
Front Suspension: Double Wishbone
Rear Suspension: Multi-link
Front Brakes: 420mm Ventilated Discs
Rear Brakes: 380mm Ventilated Discs
Front Tires: 265/40ZR21
Rear Tires: 305/35ZR21
Minimum Turning Radius: 5.755 meters
Trunk Capacity: 235 liters
0-100km/h Acceleration: 3.7 seconds
Top Speed: 333 km/h
CO2 Emissions: 284 g/km
Price: ¥28.18 million