Bentley Mulliner’s ‘Edition 8’ is a luxurious farewell to the V8 era

Bentley Mulliner recently announced the launch of ‘Edition 8’, a lavish final edition for its celebrated 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engines fitted in the Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur models. This special edition is tailored exclusively for the North American market, marking a grand farewell as Bentley transitions to its new Ultra Performance Hybrid electrocharged powertrain.

The discontinuation of the V8 engine from the Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur lines is a key step in Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy, which aims to offer a hybrid variant in all model lines by 2024. This initiative began with the introduction of the Bentayga and Flying Spur Hybrid models, which have seen demand surpass expectations.

The ‘Edition 8’ encompasses a handpicked selection of Mulliner’s most exclusive options. It features a choice of stunning 22-inch wheels available in either 5-spoke or 10-spoke designs and Comfort Specification seats that enhance the luxury driving experience. One of the standout features is Bentley’s innovative Rotating Display, allowing drivers to switch between three different fascia panels. The interiors are further distinguished by exquisite contrast stitching, adding a touch of sophistication.

Bentley offers customization with over 60 colours available in Mulliner’s Extended Paint range, allowing customers to personalize their vehicle to their taste. A unique addition to this edition is the Palm Fluting on the front and rear seats, a design never before offered on any mainstream Bentley production model, providing a distinctive and luxurious aesthetic.

Other elegant details include self-leveling wheel badges that maintain the Bentley logo upright while the vehicle is in motion, LED welcome lamps that greet passengers as they enter, and a highly polished, engineered ‘jewel’ fuel filler cap—originally a bespoke request from a customer that has now become a feature of this special edition.

Externally, ‘Edition 8’ badging adorns the fender of the Continental GT and GTC models, and on the D Pillar of the Flying Spur. Inside, the ‘Edition 8’ motif is embroidered on the seat backs and engraved on the treadplates, emphasizing the exclusivity of these models. This release is significant as it represents one of the last opportunities for North American customers to own one of the most richly appointed 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 models. With the first deliveries expected soon, buyers are assured of obtaining a piece of Bentley’s prestigious legacy.

Bentley’s 4.0-litre V8 engine has been a cornerstone of its engineering since its introduction in 2012. Over 53,000 V8-powered vehicles have been produced, each meticulously crafted by hand at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England. The engine is noted for delivering three times the power of Bentley’s first V8 engine introduced back in 1959, despite having two-thirds the capacity.

As Bentley prepares to phase out this iconic engine in the UK, Europe, and MEAI, the ‘Edition 8’ serves as a fitting tribute to its performance and legacy in North America. The continuation of the V8 in the Bentayga family ensures that while this chapter in Bentley’s history is closing, the spirited performance of the Bentley V8 will continue to be part of the luxury automaker’s offerings.