Bentley to replace W12 engine with 750hp hybrid V8

Bentley has confirmed that it will replace its outgoing W12 engine with a V8-based plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain that puts out 750hp. The firm suggested that the setup will produce, “four-figure torque over a wider plateau”, implying that it will at least match the 1,000Nm of the tuned W12 in the recently revealed Batur.

Bentley has yet to disclose the technical specifications of the new engine or its electricals but said the powertrain will deliver an electric-only range of 80km between charges. The Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur will be updated with the new powertrains later this year, replacing both the standard V8 and the W12 in each instance. The V6-based plug-in hybrid powertrains in both the Bentayga and the Flying Spur will remain on sale.

Bentley delayed its first battery-electric car from next year to late 2026. Former CEO Adrian Hallmark cited delays to the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) programme as the reason for pushing back the new car. These issues also set back the arrival of the Audi Q6 e-tron and the electric Porsche Macan.