Editors' Picks -- 4 days ago
Words: Charlie Thomas
Bentley rarely chop the roofs off their luxury automobiles, but when they do the result is always a striking one. The new Bentley Grand Convertible was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show and it has made quite the impression on both press and the wider public as a whole.
Continuing to define British luxury with every new release, Bentley have become a favourite of those looking to invest in unadulterated quality. The Grand Convertible takes this idea to new levels though, and is arguably the most opulent car the marque has ever produced.
, Embodying Bentley’s current design ethos, as well as their vision for the future, the Grand Convertible is as elegant as it is exuberant. Its interior has been crafted from 14 naturally tanned leather hides, which have been combined to create the signature diamond quilting that Bentley customers have become accustomed to.
Under the bonnet you’ll find the familiar 530bhp, 6.75-litre twin turbo V8 from the Mulsanne, yet without a roof the burbling engine note can be enjoyed in ways not previously possible. The most impressive aspect of the car though is the way the design team have gone about implementing the roof.
Dominating the rear end of the Grand Convertible is a tonneau unlike any other. Reminiscent of a Riva yacht, the wood panelling is sublime. Made with dark-stained Burr Walnut, it is the biggest piece of wood veneer ever used on a Bentley and, finished with chromed steel inserts, its easily the most arresting. Bentley rounded up the world’s most accomplished furniture makers and skilled craftsmen to create this party piece and it’s fair to say it hasn’t disappointed.
Bentley chairman and CEO, Wolfgang Dürheimer, said ‘this concept demonstrates Bentley’s ability to create a pinnacle convertible Grand Tourer, while embodying elegance beyond compare. With this car we combine the opulent Mulsanne experience with the full sensory indulgence of open-air touring, continuing to unite luxury and performance in new ways.’
Whilst the car remains a concept at this stage it looks remarkably complete, perhaps hinting at a production-ready version hitting the tarmac in 2015.
For more information, visit Bentley’s website by clicking here.
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