Bentley Continental GT

Costs

Running costs for the GT will inevitably be high, thanks to the thirst of the 6.0-litre engine, high insurance costs and the price of servicing. Its high carbon emissions will also put it in the highest bracket for excise duty.

Space and practicality

For a car of its size, the GT is relatively inefficient in its use of space. The cabin is cosy rather than spacious, although there is no shortage of room for front seat passengers. There are a handful of storage spaces in the cabin and the boot is usefully large.

Controls and display

The layout of the GT is highly impressive, with attractive yet clear displays, well labelled switches and controls and excellent graphics. The major controls are also well designed and easy to manipulate, adding to the relaxing nature of the driving experience.

Comfort

The level of comfort on offer in the GT is very impressive, from the supportive seats and the relaxed cabin to the low wind and engine noise levels. Passengers in the rear are less well catered for, although the use of individual seats does improve the amount of support.

Car security

A desirable car such as this needs protection, and the standard alarm and immobiliser system should prove sufficient to prevent most thieves.

Car safety

A high level of active and passive safety system are present in the GT, aided by the standard four-wheel drive system. Standard ESP and ABS systems are backed up by airbags throughout the cabin and a strong safety cell.

Driver appeal

The driving appeal of the GT comes from its ability to deal with any sort of driving. The refined powertrain, comfortable ride and low noise levels make it an excellent car for covering long distances, yet it is also a capable driver's car, responding well to inputs and delivering impressive performance with ease. It may not be as sharp to drive as some of its rivals, but it is certainly the best at offering both comfort and performance.

Family car appeal

The GT is probably too exclusive and expensive to be a family car, although it would take a family of four without any trouble.

First car appeal

The GT is out of the range of first car buyers, and its performance and costs would be prohibitive.

Quality and image

The quality of the GT is superb throughout, and is in keeping with standard that Bentley customers would expect. Especially inside, the GT feels hand made rather than mass produced, and has the right feel for a luxury car. The image of the GT is almost as strong, taking the peerless Bentley image and making it more accessible. It is this that has caused the only potential demerit, as the GT's popularity has made something of a common occurrence in certain circles.

Accessibility

Access to the front of the GT is simple, with a long door on each side that opens wide. The low roofline does not present a problem either. Passengers getting into the rear face a more difficult task, as the front seats slide forward a limited amount.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

As standard the GT comes with a high specification audio system, with a six-CD autochanger and radio. The sound quality is very good indeed, and is well suited to a car likely to make long journeys.

Colours and trim

The exterior of the GT is available in a variety of shades ranging from the lurid to the conservative, but it is the more subtle hues that suit its shape. Inside the trim is of a very high standard, with quality materials in a wide choice of colours.

Parking

The GT is relatively straightforward to park for a car of its size, although the long tail and nose can make it difficult to judge the proximity of the car to other objects.

Spare wheel

Space saver spare wheel fitted beneath the boot floor.