The new diet version of Bentley Continental GT powered by a V8 engine make its official debut at the Detroit Motor Show in both coupe and convertible guises.

This might be a lite Conti, but it is still a proper Bentley with loads of power and luxuriousness above any man’s best expectations. The 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 is not only fuel efficient, it also makes the car lighter. All that means a gain of 40 per cent improvement in fuel economy and CO₂ emissions over the W12 model.

The new powertrain delivers maximum power of 500 bhp (507 PS / 373 Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft). So there’s no shortage of power. It also has a very satisfying performance with zero to 60mph in 4.6 seconds for the GT coupe (0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds) and a top speed of 188 mph (303 km/h). The Convertible will be a bit slower, but still mighty fast for its size.

This V8 comes with a sophisticated engine management system that turns it into a V4 under light throttle load. The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.

But for us the best feature of the new engine is probably the V8 growl. The W12 Conti is very quite and civilized, and to be honest a bit boring. The nice, dignified V8 rumble will make the car more fun to drive.

Some of the visual differences between the V8 and the W12 include Gloss black matrix grille with bright chrome surround and divider, Three-segment lower bumper with black air intakes and striking body-coloured dividers, Dark rear lower valance, Distinctive twin ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, and Red enamel Bentley winged ‘B’ badges above the front grille, to the bootlid and wheel centres.

Bentley Continental GT V8 Pricing: