Used 2011 Bentley Continential GTC Review & Ratings

The 2012 Bentley Continental GTC is the drop-top variation of the Continental GT. It sports a tremendous engine that can run on E85, and it handles well, even for a convertible. Though it has flaws and costs as much as a house, the GTC offers the ultra-luxury that one expects from the brand.

The turbocharged W12 engine offers 552 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, which is sure to impress anyone with a need for speed. It handles beautifully off ht eline and can accoerate to 60 mph in only 5 seconds. The six-speed ZF automatic transmission shifts faster than a person can blink, yet graciously allows the driver to change gears with paddles thoughtfully placed behind the steering wheel. Handling is fantasticc, and with all of the electronics controlling the air-suspension, it is easy to select exactly how stiff it should be. The ride does not suffer one bit from the body's rigidity either.

The body of the Continental GTC is constructed with the same quality that is characteristic of the brand. The chassis is super-rigid, reducing noise and vibration, while the interior can be outfitted with all of the latest gadgetry and comfort items. Be warned though, you will be bothered by wind noise with the top down once you reach about 50 mph, but most would expect a bit anyway. There are 17 exciting colors of leather and seven different woods to choose from, and brushed metal is always an option as well. The infotainment system includes a tremendous range of functionality and is fairly easy to use. The soft top is exceptional, can be closed while driving in only 25 seconds. Even with the top down there is little buffeting at highway speeds. The back seat, while not exactly roomy, is acceptable for an adult to enjoy a shorter ride.

The 2012 Bentley Continental GTC should prove to be a very safe vehicle to be in during a collision. The solid construction, along with electronic stability control, automatic seat belt presenters and frontal airbags, should all help make the GTC the car to be in if anything unfortunate happens on the road. Overall the Bentley Continental GTC is a big, heavy, expensive luxury car with a drop-top, trying desperately to be a sports car. It has all the ingredients, a ton of power and good handling, but the luxury features keep the appearance subdued and tame. The GTC tells everyone that you've arrived, but it also lets you have fun and be comfortable while you are on your way.