Luxury automaker to debut high-performance hybrid, signaling a major step in its electrification strategy
HM Journal
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about 3 hours ago
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Bentley Motors is set to formally introduce its new Continental Supersports at a highly anticipated event in New York City on November 7, 2025. The luxury automaker confirmed on November 5, 2025, that this private showcase, hosted at the Bentley Manhattan dealership, signifies the revival of the Supersports nameplate, last seen in 2017. This launch aligns squarely with Bentley's accelerated "Beyond100" electrification strategy, a pivotal move towards ultra-luxury performance electric vehicles.
The new Supersports is engineered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining a twin-turbo V8 engine with electric motors to deliver a formidable 800 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. Preliminary specifications indicate an impressive acceleration from 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds, with a top speed reaching 208 mph. Crucially, the vehicle boasts an electric-only range of 50 miles (80 km) based on WLTP testing, positioning it as a significant step in Bentley's push for sustainability. This hybrid configuration substantially reduces CO2 emissions to 50 g/km, a sharp decrease from the 2017 model's 358 g/km.
Bentley's CEO, Adrian Hallmark, highlighted the model's significance in a November 5, 2025, press release. He stated, "The new Continental Supersports represents the ultimate fusion of Bentley's heritage in grand touring with cutting-edge hybrid technology. This unveil in New York underscores our commitment to the American market, where demand for sustainable luxury performance is surging." The company views the Supersports as a crucial "bridge" model as it works towards its goal of becoming fully electric by 2030. A Volkswagen AG spokesperson affirmed this direction, noting the launch aligns with the group's €10 billion investment in electrification for premium brands.
The new Continental Supersports is projected to start at $350,000 USD, representing a 20% premium over the standard Continental GT Speed, which was priced at $285,000 as of October 2025. Production for the first year will be limited to 300 units globally, a strategy that often enhances exclusivity.
Bentley's focus on the U.S. market for this unveiling is strategic. The U.S. accounts for 25% of Bentley's global sales, making it the brand's second-largest market. Data from October 2025 indicated a 30% sales uptick in hybrid models within New York state alone, reflecting strong regional demand. The vehicle's compliance with stricter emissions standards, such as California's ZEV mandates, and eligibility for a $7,500 federal EV tax credit are additional benefits for the American market. Bentley reported a 15% increase in U.S. sales for Q3 2025, with hybrids contributing 25% of deliveries; the Supersports is expected to push this to 30% in 2026.
This iteration of the Supersports introduces several advanced features, including Bentley's first adaptive hybrid system with AI-driven power distribution. Other key additions include a 48-volt mild-hybrid assist, carbon-ceramic brakes with regenerative technology, and an augmented reality heads-up display optimized for track use. Inside, the cabin showcases sustainable materials like recycled leather and a 20-speaker Naim audio system. Compared to its 2017 predecessor, the new model offers 20% more torque, a 100 kg weight reduction through carbon-fiber components, and Level 2+ autonomous driving aids.
Expert opinions on the Supersports are largely positive, albeit with some measured observations. Automotive journalist Chris Harris remarked, "Bentley is smartly evolving the Supersports—it's not just faster, but smarter with hybrid tech that doesn't dilute the thrill." However, EV expert Sam Abuelsamid noted that while impressive, the 50-mile electric range "lags behind competitors like the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT (over 60 miles), potentially limiting appeal in urban markets." Online forums have shown considerable excitement for the "iconic revival," yet some criticism has emerged regarding the high price tag. Kelley Blue Book analysts suggest this launch positions Bentley competitively within the luxury hybrid segment, particularly against rivals like Ferrari whose hybrids typically start at a higher price point.