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Motor Authority - blog Category: Arnage

  • Spy shots: Grand Bentley Arnage replacement

    Spy shots: Grand Bentley Arnage replacement July 30th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, July 30th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 16 Comments

    Spy shots: Grand Bentley Arnage replacement Today's Arnage is showing its age against modern ultra-luxury rivals like the Rolls Royce Phantom and Maybach saloons, but testing of a new model is well underway. Despite the head start of its rivals, Bentley is planning to pause almost a full year from this September before going into production of its next-gen, up-scale Arnage replacement, which has been partially revealed in teaser form, and is also confirmed for an unveiling at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours D’ Elegance in Monterey, California this August.

    The all-new model is expected to be more expensive than the current Arnage, and some sources speculate the car might be... Today's Arnage is showing its age against modern ultra-luxury rivals like the Rolls Royce Phantom and Maybach saloons, but testing of a new model is well underway. Despite the head start of its rivals, Bentley is planning to pause almost a full year from this September before going into production of its next-gen, up-scale Arnage replacement, which has been partially revealed in teaser form, and is also confirmed for an unveiling at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours D’ Elegance in Monterey, California this August. The all-new model is expected to be more expensive than the current Arnage, and some sources speculate the car might be pitched at a higher position. This would make it a direct challenger to the Rolls-Royce Phantom, at a time when a new Rolls-Royce Ghost is preparing to take on the Bentley Continental Flying Spur. A spokesman would only confirm that "the price will reflect the exclusivity and positioning of this all-new model," and that the name of the vehicle will be announced at its unveiling this summer. Expect to see the car debut at Augusts’ Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Under the code name “Project Kimberly”, the new model will be based off a heavily revised version of Audi’s modular platform used for a host of models ranging from the A4 sedan up to the next A8 flagship. However, the Bentley will feature its own unique V8 powertrain with drive sent to the rear wheels via ZF’s new 8-speed automatic. It's likely the new V8 will feature some form of forced induction, but whether it will be supercharged, twin-turbocharged or something similar remains uncertain. Peak output is expected to rate around the 550hp and 737lb-ft of torque mark. There were rumors Bentley may introduce a new diesel engine in its Arnage replacement but the eventual engine option is most likely to be a petrol unit with E85 capability. The car is also expected to make heavy use of aluminum in its construction to keep weight and emissions down. A high-performance replacement for the Arnage T is also in the works, but don’t expect it to feature the Bugatti Veyron’s W16 engine as previously rumored. Expect Bentley's strategy with the Arnage - in terms of parts-sharing, at least - to follow along the same premises as it has already outlined for the next-gen Continental.2010 Bentley Arnage replacement spy shotsOfficial teaser for Bentley's Arnage replacement Read More

  • Bentley getting greener with cylinder deactivation technology

    Bentley getting greener with cylinder deactivation technology July 20th, 2009 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, July 20th, 2009 Kenneth Hall 0 Comments

    Bentley getting greener with cylinder deactivation technology The pressure to show an interest in the ecological impact of driving is extending ever-upwards, so high that even Bentley is working on advanced fuel saving technologies for its cars. We’ve already seen the unveiling of the flex-fuel capable Continental Supersports, Bentley’s fastest and most powerful production car ever, and soon we’ll see a Bentley with environmentally friendly features such as aerodynamic aids and engine cylinder deactivation.

    Bentley recently bid farewell to its Arnage flagship, but the company has ambitious plans for the future, with a new ‘super’ Arnage expected to start production by... The pressure to show an interest in the ecological impact of driving is extending ever-upwards, so high that even Bentley is working on advanced fuel saving technologies for its cars. We’ve already seen the unveiling of the flex-fuel capable Continental Supersports, Bentley’s fastest and most powerful production car ever, and soon we’ll see a Bentley with environmentally friendly features such as aerodynamic aids and engine cylinder deactivation. Bentley recently bid farewell to its Arnage flagship, but the company has ambitious plans for the future, with a new ‘super’ Arnage expected to start production by the end of next year. Larger, faster and more luxurious, this new model will reportedly feature cylinder deactivation. The technology is designed to sharply reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by closing off individual combustion chambers during low load situations, reports Automotive News. The car’s body will also feature an innovative forming technology that uses superheated air and high tool pressure to shape its curvaceous bodywork and aid aerodynamic efficiency. Power is expected to come from a unique V8 engine with drive sent to the rear wheels via ZF’s new 8-speed automatic. It's likely the new V8 will feature some form of forced induction, but whether it will be supercharged, twin-turbocharged or something similar remains uncertain. Bentley is planning to pause almost a full year from this September before going into production of its new Arnage replacement, which has been partially revealed in teaser form, and is confirmed for an unveiling at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours D’ Elegance in Monterey, California this August.Official teaser for Bentley's Arnage replacement Read More

  • Pebble Beach Concours debut for new 'Grand Bentley' Arnage replacement

    Pebble Beach Concours debut for new 'Grand Bentley' Arnage replacement July 8th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, July 8th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 5 Comments

    Pebble Beach Concours debut for new 'Grand Bentley' Arnage replacement Today's Arnage is showing its age against modern ultra-luxury rivals like the Rolls Royce Phantom and Maybach saloons, but testing of a new model is well underway. Despite the head start of its rivals, Bentley is planning to pause almost a full year from this September before going into production of its next-gen, up-scale Arnage replacement, which has been partially revealed in teaser form again, and is also confirmed for an unveiling at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours D’ Elegance in Monterey, California this August.

    The all-new model is expected to be more expensive than the current Arnage, and some sources speculate the car might be... Today's Arnage is showing its age against modern ultra-luxury rivals like the Rolls Royce Phantom and Maybach saloons, but testing of a new model is well underway. Despite the head start of its rivals, Bentley is planning to pause almost a full year from this September before going into production of its next-gen, up-scale Arnage replacement, which has been partially revealed in teaser form again, and is also confirmed for an unveiling at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours D’ Elegance in Monterey, California this August. The all-new model is expected to be more expensive than the current Arnage, and some sources speculate the car might be pitched at a higher position. This would make it a direct challenger to the Rolls-Royce Phantom, at a time when a new Rolls-Royce Ghost is preparing to take on the Bentley Continental Flying Spur. A spokesman would only confirm that "the price will reflect the exclusivity and positioning of this all-new model," and that the name of the vehicle will be announced at its unveiling this summer. Expect to see the car debut at Augusts’ Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Under the code name “Project Kimberly”, the new model will be based off a heavily revised version of Audi’s modular platform used for a host of models ranging from the A4 sedan up to the next A8 flagship. However, the Bentley will feature its own unique V8 powertrain with drive sent to the rear wheels via ZF’s new 8-speed automatic. It's likely the new V8 will feature some form of forced induction, but whether it will be supercharged, twin-turbocharged or something similar remains uncertain. There were rumors Bentley may introduce a new diesel engine in its Arnage replacement but the eventual engine option is most likely to be a petrol unit with E85 capability. The car is also expected to make heavy use of aluminum in its construction to keep weight and emissions down. A high-performance replacement for the Arnage T is also in the works, but don’t expect it to feature the Bugatti Veyron’s W16 engine as previously rumored. Expect Bentley's strategy with the Arnage - in terms of parts-sharing, at least - to follow along the same premises as it has already outlined for the next-gen Continental. Below you'll find spy images of an Arnage prototype, revealing a number of important clues about the future model. The extra-wide B-pillar indicates a longer wheelbase, and a slightly wider track should ensure a more dynamic drive than the current car. That extra size and performance will go a long way toward pushing the Arnage back to the top of the luxury ranks - or at least that's what Bentley is counting on. Today also has a special importance for Bentley as it marks the company's 90th anniversary. Founded by W.O. Bentley in 1919, the company’s first production car, the 3-litre was delivered in September 1921. Over the next ten years, Bentley went on to produce an array of iconic motor cars. At the same time, the exploits of the Bentley Boys – a select group of business and sports men – forged the company’s racing pedigree both on and off the racetracks of Europe. The Bentley Boys made the legendary Le Mans endurance race their own, winning five times between 1924 and 1930.2010 Bentley Arnage replacement spy shotsOfficial teaser for Bentley's Arnage replacementGrand Bentley teaser: 'We are the opposite of mass production' Read More

  • Pebble Beach to host former Bentley Boys cars in addition to Arnage unveiling

    Pebble Beach to host former Bentley Boys cars in addition to Arnage unveiling June 10th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, June 10th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 2 Comments

    Pebble Beach to host former Bentley Boys cars in addition to Arnage unveiling For those not familiar with the Bentley Boys, they were a group of hard-driving, wealthy and dedicated works team racers that helped push Bentley to its racing success in the 1920s. This year, a few of the cars they drove over 80 years ago will be re-convened at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

    It's no small reunion the event's organizers are planning, either - all four of the supercharged Birkin Blowers ever built and three of the Bentley Speed Six race cars are to be on hand, reports Motor Trend.

    One particularly fine specimen, Bentley Chassis 141 (pictured), a 1922 3.0L car that set the inaugural lap record at the first Le Mans... For those not familiar with the Bentley Boys, they were a group of hard-driving, wealthy and dedicated works team racers that helped push Bentley to its racing success in the 1920s. This year, a few of the cars they drove over 80 years ago will be re-convened at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. It's no small reunion the event's organizers are planning, either - all four of the supercharged Birkin Blowers ever built and three of the Bentley Speed Six race cars are to be on hand, reports Motor Trend. One particularly fine specimen, Bentley Chassis 141 (pictured), a 1922 3.0L car that set the inaugural lap record at the first Le Mans race in 1923, will be making the trip from its current home in Australia all the way to the Pebble Beach event. Bentley has already announced plans to unveil the new 'Grand Bentley' Arnage replacement at the event as well. We're just a little over two months away from the 59th running of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, so all you inveterate Bentley fans had better make your travel plans fast.2010 Bentley Arnage replacement spy shotsOfficial teaser for Bentley's Arnage replacement Read More

  • Bentley bumps up future product schedule, new Continental GT may come next year

    Bentley bumps up future product schedule, new Continental GT may come next year April 20th, 2009 ByJeremy Weber Jeremy Weber, Author, April 20th, 2009 Jeremy Weber 0 Comments

    Bentley bumps up future product schedule, new Continental GT may come next year While some industry analysts are predicting that the auto market will not recover until 2011 or 2012, Bentley is certain that its customer base will be ready to buy again as early as next year. In fact, the luxury British brand is so confident in this prediction that it’s bumping up its release dates for its future product cycle by around half a year - meaning that the replacement for the popular Bentley Continental GT may be arriving as early as next year.

    Moving production ahead is a bold move, but jumping the gun doesn't seem to be an issue at Bentley, which is confident that it will see a recovery in 2010. The information comes... While some industry analysts are predicting that the auto market will not recover until 2011 or 2012, Bentley is certain that its customer base will be ready to buy again as early as next year. In fact, the luxury British brand is so confident in this prediction that it’s bumping up its release dates for its future product cycle by around half a year - meaning that the replacement for the popular Bentley Continental GT may be arriving as early as next year. Moving production ahead is a bold move, but jumping the gun doesn't seem to be an issue at Bentley, which is confident that it will see a recovery in 2010. The information comes from the carmaker’s board member for sales and marketing, Stuart McCullough, who explained to Automotive News that capitalizing on this recovery will be important, and "coming out of the dip is when new models will pay off". While the next-generation Bentley Continental GT coupe is now likely to arrive by next year, it will be followed soon enough by replacements for the Continental Flying Spur four-door sedan, as well as the obligatory GTC convertible variant. Also due next year is a replacement for the Arnage, which is expected to bow in as a new super-luxury model towards the end of the year. Bentley's plans will place a great deal of weight on emerging markets such as China, the Middle-East and Russia, as well as returning customers from previously vital markets such as the U.S. market. Last year, sales for Bentley in the U.S. fell by close to one-third. The first quarter for this year was even worse, with sales down by over two-thirds compared to the same period last year - not exactly a good sign for a recovery predicted as early as next year. Read More

  • Bentley's production V8 turns 50

    Bentley's production V8 turns 50 January 20th, 2009 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, January 20th, 2009 Kenneth Hall 1 Comment

    Bentley's production V8 turns 50 Fifty years ago Bentley first installed a V8 engine in its iconic S2 Continental, and the legacy of that original 6.2L aluminum powerplant can still be found today in cars like the 530hp (395kW) Brooklands coupe, Arnage saloon and Azure convertible. To celebrate the achievement, Bentley’s board member for engineering, Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, will give a keynote speech mentioning the engine at the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation lecture in London on January 22.

    Today's Bentley V8 engine is true to the original design, however, it has achieved power and torque increases of over 150% through the introduction of fuel injection,... Fifty years ago Bentley first installed a V8 engine in its iconic S2 Continental, and the legacy of that original 6.2L aluminum powerplant can still be found today in cars like the 530hp (395kW) Brooklands coupe, Arnage saloon and Azure convertible. To celebrate the achievement, Bentley’s board member for engineering, Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, will give a keynote speech mentioning the engine at the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation lecture in London on January 22. Today's Bentley V8 engine is true to the original design, however, it has achieved power and torque increases of over 150% through the introduction of fuel injection, turbocharging and intercooling technologies whilst also remaining compliant with the latest emissions standards. In 2007, the 6.75L, twin-turbocharged V8 saw a step-change in performance with a comprehensive range of enhancements. These included a more efficient and refined valve-train, re-profiled camshafts, a free-flowing air induction system, and more responsive, low-inertia turbochargers. These were complemented by a new six-speed transmission with semi-automatic function and Bosch engine management system. Bentley currently hand-builds the engine at its Crewe headquarters in the UK. The latest iteration of the design displaces 6.75L and in its most powerful guise develops 530hp (395kW) and 775lb-ft (1,050Nm) of torque. In the Brooklands coupe, this output results in a 0-60mph sprint time of five seconds and a top speed of 184mph. Not only is the engine the most powerful V8 ever launched by Bentley, it also has the highest torque of any production V8 in the world. Prior to the introduction of the V8 engine in the S2 Continental, Bentley was using a straight-six engine in its S1. Today, the carmaker also features a quad-turbocharged 6.0L W12 engine, whose introduction was also overseen by Dr. Eichhorn. Read More

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