The twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 makes a substantial 479 lb-ft (650 Nm) of torque at an extremely low 1,600 rpm, 4,500 fewer revs than needed to extract all of its 551 horsepower. And the engine sounds sensational too, more sporting than the traditional blower Bentley 6.1-liter V8. Where the old V8 makes more torque and less power, the new W12 feels sensational when the revs build, surging forward with a newfound enthusiasm that I've never felt in a Bentley before. Don't get me wrong, the old 6.1 puts down power to the road with more authoritative kick than a 426 Hemi, and with ten times the refinement, but the new W12 is a different kind of monster. It purrs where the V8 rumbles, and howls when the V8 growls. I love them both, but the high revving W12 suits the lighter, sportier coupe better.

The twin-turbocharged 551-hp 6.0-liter W12 makes a substantial 479 lb-ft (650 Nm) of torque. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

I think the lighter, sportier coupe suits me better than the big sedan too, although an Arnage T Mulliner would make a wonderful stable mate. When all is said and done, mind you, I won't be stepping up to the Bentley plate quite yet, yet like the Red Sox I've got an undying faith that will no doubt lead me to success, and to that end to one day find a Continental GT parked among my long-term test fleet. Those who experience good fortune grace their door sooner, however, may want to take advantage of the most enticing new Bentley, no, one of the most enticing new cars to be offered in decades.

Specifications:

• Base Price: $230,990 CAD ($155,990 USD)
• Body Type: 2-door coupe
• Layout: front engine, AWD
• Engine: 551 hp, 479 lb-ft of torque, 6.0-L, 48-valve, DOHC, twin-turbocharged W12
• Transmission: 6-spd auto with paddle shift actuated manual mode
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Curb Weight: 2,385 kg (5,258 lb)
• Performance (0 - 100 km/h): 4.8 seconds
• Top Speed: 318 km/h (198 mph)
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 370 L (13.1 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 26.2 / 11.9 (9 / 20 mpg) (EU certified)
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/unlimited comprehensive Direct Competitors: Mercedes-Benz CL55 / CL600
• Web Site: www.bentleymotors.com

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.