Vehicle Overview
| Vehicle Segment | Ultra-Luxury Grand Tourer (GT Coupe / Convertible) |
| Body Style | 2-Door Coupe (GT) / 2-Door Convertible (GTC, 2006) |
| Release Year | 2003 (GTC added in 2006) |
| Trim/Variant Reviewed | Continental GT W12 (1st Gen – Base Model) |
Key Specifications
| Engine | 6.0L Twin-Turbocharged W12 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed ZF Automatic with paddle shifters |
| Power Output | 552 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 1,600 rpm |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Full-time, rear-biased) |
| Dimensions | 4,807 mm (L) × 1,964 mm (W) × 1,405 mm (H); Wheelbase: 2,745 mm |
| Weight | ~2,350 kg (Kerb) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 liters |
| Fuel Economy | ~17.1 L/100 km combined (EU) |
| Boot Space | ~355 L (GT); ~235 L (GTC) |
Exterior Design
Designed by Dirk van Braeckel, the GT introduced a sleek, modern Bentley language
Signature mesh grille, twin round headlights, and long hood exude class and power
Muscular rear haunches and fastback roofline create a bold grand tourer stance
GTC version featured a fully automatic soft-top that folded in ~25 seconds
Classic, stately styling with subtle sporting cues – understated British opulence
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Rich hand-stitched leather, real wood veneers, polished aluminum trim
Dual-tone leather upholstery with infinite personalization options
Classic analog clock and organ-stop vents reflect Bentley heritage
4-seat layout with surprisingly usable rear seats for a GT
Exceptionally quiet ride thanks to double-glazed windows and soundproofing
GTC included heated neck warmers and insulated roof lining for all-weather use
Features & Infotainment
Touchscreen infotainment (basic by modern standards) with navigation and CD changer
12-speaker Naim for Bentley audio system available (introduced later)
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Power-adjustable, memory, heated front seats
Keyless entry, parking sensors, and rain-sensing wipers
Safety & Ratings
Safety Features
ABS, traction control, ESC
Front, side, and curtain airbags
AWD enhances stability in all weather
No Euro NCAP/IIHS crash rating due to exclusivity/class
Heavy structure and rigid chassis prioritize occupant safety
Driving Performance & Handling
0–100 km/h in 4.8 seconds (Continental GT W12)
| Top speed | ~318 km/h (198 mph) – supercar-level for a luxury coupe |
Smooth and silent power delivery from the W12; immense mid-range torque
AWD system ensures surefooted handling; feels rear-biased during spirited driving
Air suspension with continuous damping control balances comfort and agility
Not as sharp as a Porsche, but delivers an effortless high-speed cruising experience
Fuel Efficiency / Range
| Rated Economy | ~17.1 L/100 km combined |
| Real-World Consumption | 18–20 L/100 km in mixed driving |
Fuel tank provides ~450–500 km range depending on usage
High fuel consumption is expected given the twin-turbo W12 and weight
Practicality & Everyday Usability
GT offers 355 L trunk space – enough for two medium bags
GTC loses space due to folding roof (235 L)
Surprisingly usable rear seats for short trips
Smooth ride makes it capable of long-distance, everyday use
AWD and high build quality give it year-round usability
Warranty & Maintenance
| Original Warranty | 3 years / unlimited mileage (varied by market) |
| Maintenance Intervals | Oil changes every 12 months or 10,000 km |
Common ownership costs include
Brake pad wear, suspension bushings
Cooling system leaks and electrical gremlins (early years)
Repairs and servicing are high-end and dealer-specific
On-Road Price & Value for Money
| Europe | From ~€165,000 |
Delivered Aston Martin style and Ferrari pace at a luxury price point
High depreciation initially, but early models now high-value collectibles
Comparison with Rivals (2003–2006)
| Model | Engine | Power | 0–100 km/h |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bentley Continental GT | 6.0L W12 | 552 hp | 4.8s |
| Aston Martin DB9 | 6.0L V12 | 450 hp | 4.7s |
| Mercedes CL65 AMG | 6.0L V12 TT | 604 hp | 4.4s |
| Maserati Coupe GT | 4.2L V8 | 390 hp | 5.2s |
| Bentley led in | Prestige, AWD usability, craftsmanship |
Weighed more than rivals, but compensated with W12 torque
Pros & Cons
Pros
Timeless luxury grand tourer design
Ferocious W12 power with smooth AWD grip
Ultra-refined cabin and ride
Excellent long-distance comfort
GTC offers open-top Bentley cruising with year-round usability
Cons
Heavy curb weight impacts cornering sharpness
High fuel consumption
Maintenance costs are significant
Early infotainment system aged quickly
Overall Rating
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4.4 / 5) |
True Motion Auto has not independently road-tested this vehicle. Specifications, pricing and performance figures are compiled from manufacturer technical data and published independent tests, and are attributed where quoted. Our score reflects a structured research assessment of specifications, pricing, safety data and owner feedback for the segment — not an independent road test. Read how we review cars.
A luxury performance masterpiece that redefined the grand touring formula—equal parts style, speed, and serenity.
Final Verdict
The 2003 Bentley Continental GT (and later GTC) marked Bentley’s modern rebirth under VW Group, combining British craftsmanship with German engineering. It’s ideal for drivers who want effortless power, refined luxury, and prestige—whether cruising the autobahn or pulling up to a five-star hotel. Even 20 years later, it remains a symbol of timeless GT excellence.
More Bentley reviews: Bentley Bentayga W12 Review and Bentley Continental Flying Spur Review.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting strong driver appeal and performance-focused character, premium materials, image and comfort. |
| Body style | Performance Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.