Car Statistics: Bentley - Continental GT Series 10 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

The subtle changes have created a GT much closer to the designer's fantasy, and the sharp creases give it a pleasing tautness. However if you didn't like the shape before then it's unlikely you'll feel differently now.

Handling (4 stars)

Where the old car never left you in any doubt of its considerable mass, the second-generation version is happier playing the sports car. The steering is consistent if not super-sharp, but the four-wheel drive now has the right torque split to allow you to punch out of bends with real alacrity.

Comfort (5 stars)

Even riding on massive alloys the Continental GT soothes away road imperfections and keeps its occupants in a state of perpetual calm. The cabin is a wonderful place and works much better now, while the optional ventilated massage seats will keep pampered behinds comfortable.

Quality (5 stars)

VW Group parentage pays dividends here, so expect near-bulletproof reliability and savour the cabin quality. Superb materials are put together with faultless consistency, greatly adding to the ownership experience.

Performance (5 stars)

Even with 2.3 tons to haul about, the 567bhp W12 just keeps on pulling. At low speeds initial acceleration might even seem a little languid, but once rolling the GT accelerates with a relentless shove that continues well into three-figure speeds. The quicker upshifts from the gearbox help to cut acceleration times too.

Roominess (3 stars)

Those up front have nothing to complain about with plenty of head and legroom. The wide transmission tunnel gives a cosy feel too. Legroom is improved in the back by nearly 5 centimetres thanks to the slimmed-down front seats, but it's still not somewhere you would want to sit for more than a couple of hours.

Costs (2 stars)

If you have to ask then you can't afford it. With a combined fuel consumption figure only just creeping into the 17s and 384g/km of C02, the Continental GT can't be run on a shoestring. Expect to pay a great deal for insurance too.

Value (3 stars)

There's no question that you get a lot of car for the money. The specification is comprehensive and the fit and finish is superb. Yet most crucially the GT is arguably more capable than its rivals which can cost as much as £20,000 more.

Stereo (5 stars)

The old GT's system was a little clunky for a car in this class, but the latest car has an up-to-date unit with features like Google Maps and can find destinations using geo-tagged pictures. The controls system is much more intuitive too, while the optional Naim audio system brings epic-quality sound to the cabin.