2013 Frankfurt Preview: Bentley debuts new Continental GT V8 S

2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S

Bentley unveiled today, ahead of the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), the new Continental GT V8 S and GTC V8 S models. As expected, both models are powered by the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine developing 521 bhp (389 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque. The 2014 Continental GT V8 S is able to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 192 mph (309 km/h), while the GTC V8 S hits the same speed in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 191 mph or 308 km/h. Despite the increased performance, the GT V8 S is able to cover more than 500 miles (805 km) on a single tank of fuel. The new GT V8 S coupe returns a combined cycle fuel economy of 26.8 mpg (10.6 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 246 g/km.

The equivalent figures for the convertible are 25.9 mpg (10.9 l/100km) and 254 g/km. The 2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S also comes with a lowered sports suspension (by 10 mm), complemented by increased spring rates (45% front, 33% rear) and revised damping for a more engaging and responsive drive. Bush stiffnesses are increased by up to 70%, while the rear anti-roll bar is stiffened by 54% over the standard GT V8 models for improved body control and turn-in.

In terms of design, we find lower-body styling such as a sharp front splitter, side sills and a subtle rear diffuser finished in Beluga gloss. Moreover, the Continental GT V8 S features black gloss radiator grille with single chrome divider bar and 'figure of eight' exhaust tail pipes instantly signify the powerful V8 engine.

The 20-inch wheels are unique to the S models and have an open-spoke design. Besides the 17 exterior colours, the GT V8 S models also get two new ones: Kingfisher Blue and the new Monaco Yellow. Inside, we find discreet V8 S badges on each sill tread plate and a full range of seventeen colours. [source: Bentley]

Gallery: 2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S/ GTC V8 S

2013 Frankfurt Preview: Audi unveils the Sport Quattro Concept

The Lexus GS F was caught undisguised by spy photographers and Japan’s Best Car magazine was kind enough to reveal the photos. As you can see, the new Lexus GS F looks pretty impressive and carbon fiber is present in its new bodykit. The upcoming car will feature a new aerodynamic kit consisting of a front lip spoiler, enlarged front fenders, side sills, a new rear bumper with integrated air user and exhaust system. A carbon fiber rear lip trunk spoiler is available too as well as carbon fiber mirror covers. Under the hood we expect to see a 5.0-liter V8 engine delivering over 450 hp. More details to be revealed!

Gallery: Lexus GS F

2013 Frankfurt Preview: Audi unveils the Sport Quattro Concept

Audi Sport Quattro Concept

Prior to the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), Audi released the official info and specs of its new Sport Quattro Concept. The new concept car celebrates the 30th birthday of the iconic Sport Quattro, which was introduced back in 1983 at the IAA. The new Sport Quattro Concept that will make its world debut next week at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show has a wheelbase of 2,784 millimeters. Moreover, it has a length of 4,602 millimeters, a width of 1,964 millimeters and a height of just 1,386 millimeters. Regarding the design, the new car features angular, flat C-pillars, rectangular double headlights with Matrix LED technology (that made its debut on the new Audi A8 Facelift) and a new hexagonal single-frame grille.

The rear end shows rectangular tail lights and a spoiler that extends from the rear hatch at higher speeds. The interior is focused on the driver, as the steering wheel, digital instrument cluster and head-up display are all in the direct field of view. In addition, we find sporty racing bucket seats with folding backs. Furthermore, the interior features the touchwheel of the characteristic Audi MMI control unit that makes it easy to enter information.

Under the hood, there is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 560 hp and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. Moreover, located between the V8 engine and the transmission is a disc-shaped electric motor that develops 110 kW and 400 Nm (292 lb-ft) of torque. It draws its traction energy from a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery in the rear with a capacity of 14.1 kWh.

The concept car can be charged via the Audi wall box, which uses intelligent charge management to ensure the optimal feed of energy to the lithium-ion battery. As a result, it can travel up to 50 km (31 miles) using electric power. According to the applicable standard, the show car consumes on average 2.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (94.09 US mpg), a CO2 equivalent of 59 grams per kilometer (94.95 g/mile). When the V8 and the electric motor work together, the Audi Sport Quattro Concept is able to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds and has a top speed of 305 km/h (189 mph). [source: Audi]

Gallery: Audi Sport Quattro Concept