What has almost 700 horsepower, weighs slightly over two tons, and emits gorgeous V8 sounds? I can think of two options. One is the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. The other? You’re looking at it: the 2027 Bentley Supersports.
Bentley has ventured down this path before, so a robust yet nimble coupe from Crewe shouldn’t be unexpected. The “Supersports” moniker dates back to the 1920s—and you need to trace back nearly that long just to discover a Bentley grand tourer that tips the scales at under two tons. Throughout my time reading (or engaging in) performance car evaluations, weight has consistently posed a significant challenge for Bentley’s faster models. Remember, this is the brand that introduced us to the W12, and for over a century, it has adopted a maximalist ethos matched only by Maybach and Rolls-Royce.
This has consistently led me to one lingering question: How much joy can you truly experience in a coupe that has a heft comparable to that of a Chevy Suburban? We’ve seen them attempt to answer this with the Mulliner and GT Speed variants, which have pushed the edge of power output while casually acknowledging weight reduction. Sure, there are substantial, heavy trucks that perform extravagant feats, but we’re discussing luxury touring vehicles here, not a TRX replica.
So, when Bentley’s communications head, Mike Sayer, sat across from me in Monterey and remarked, “This is the car that the GT3-R should have been,” it certainly caught my attention.
What does that imply, exactly? Similar to the Supersports, the GT3-R was a limited-production tribute to Bentley’s motorsport lineage, but in contrast to this fresh interpretation of the design, the 2015 Continental GT3-R remained heavily aligned with the road car concept. It maintained standard all-wheel drive, and, despite its engineers’ utmost efforts, still weighed almost 5,000 pounds—a benchmark that makes even a Hellcat seem nimble.
Bentley’s more-is-more strategy for speed certainly birthed some incredibly fast vehicles, but they were only capable of a handful of laps around a circuit before everything—particularly the brakes—required a breather. With the Supersports, Bentley has finally turned that narrative on its head. In what Sayer referred to as a true “skunkworks” project, the Continental’s engineers stripped away all the heavy components from the coupe and tuned the 4.0-liter V8. It now produces 657 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque solely to the rear wheels.
With the hybrid system and front drivetrain removed, Bentley then targeted every body part it could feasibly replace. When all was said and done, the Supersports is over 1,000 pounds lighter than the Continental GT Speed. It has also inherited nearly all of that car’s exciting features, along with a few additional ones. The robust brakes grip 17.3-inch carbon-ceramic rotors upfront and 16.1-inch rotors in the rear. Bentley claims it’s the largest brake setup available. You also receive the GT Speed’s rear-axle steering and an electronic anti-roll system. Sway bars—who needs them?
The Supersports may not hold the title of the most luxurious Continental, but it remains a Bentley. The company states the Supersports’ maximum lateral acceleration at 1.3G on the optional Pirelli Trofeo RS tires, but buyers can choose the more standard Pirelli P-Zero tires as well. That remains a summer tire, but it’ll wear (and ride) better than the Trofeo.
Combine all that, and Bentley asserts, and you receive the company’s first truly track-ready vehicle. And to verify this, it invited me to Laguna Seca to take a few laps and discover for myself.
When engineers are granted the chance to go wild with a platform, the outcome can be somewhat unhinged—that’s often the case when the inmates are permitted to manage the asylum. Given how drastically this car differs from the standard Continental, Bentley would have been excused for handing us the keys to something with a few actual and metaphorical screws loose. But staying true to Bentley’s philosophy of “effortless progression,” the Supersports is nearly apologetically composed even when you begin to push its boundaries.
What captivates you first is just how smoothly the Supersports accelerates. Press down on the accelerator, and you’ll feel your organs shift position towards the back of your ribcage as the V8’s torque builds, yet there’s no manic scream from the twin-turbo V8. It emits a sharp, warm baritone that subsides into an upshift just when things are beginning to sound intense. It’s both innovative and somewhat misleading, because it only requires a few of those interruptions before you’re in triple-digit speeds.
Laguna is a spacious, wide, fast racetrack. As you crest the blind kink in Turn 1, the Supersports feels grounded, instilling confidence. The large brakes are invaluable in the descent toward Turn 2, and the same weight that trivialized the front “straight” compels you to be a bit more deliberate here. You want it pointed the right way before unleashing all that torque through the rear wheels.
The electronic limited-slip differential effectively manages the big Bentley’s rear through the flatter sections of the track, but sitting shotgun, Sayer encourages me to push even harder, asserting that the Trofeos will hold—and they certainly do. The rear-axle steering truly becomes engaging as you speed up the cornering transitions; load all the weight on the Bentley’s front end, and it rotates smoothly as you ease off the throttle. That keeps Turn 11 thrilling even when you’re not racing door-to-door.
I would be intrigued to further explore this Bentley’s dual character outside the racetrack, but unfortunately, that wasn’t on the agenda. While our colleagues took their turns behind the wheel at Laguna, we occupied ourselves cruising along California’s scenic Route 1 in a duo of Continental GT Cs instead.
Reflecting on my experience behind the wheel of the Supersports, I can’t help but compare it to the Aston Martin Valhalla. They couldn’t be more different in nature. The Bentley is a remnant—it’s what you have left when you strip a luxury grand tourer of the elements unnecessary for rapid performance on a track. The Valhalla, in contrast, is a race car liberated from the stringent restrictions of a governing body. Aston’s method was additive where Bentley’s was subtractive. Despite not having real-world driving experience in the Bentley, I suspect it would take significantly longer to grow weary of the large, Continental-based coupe than Aston’s undeniably captivating supercar.
It feels unjust to equate the Supersports with the Valhalla superficially, but in reality, these vehicles cater to very similar individuals. Both are being manufactured in extremely limited quantities, and even if you’re among the first to read this review, you’re already months behind in reserving either car. Yes, the Bentley’s base price (just under $490,000) is half that of the Valhalla’s, but for vehicles like these, the MSRP is merely an abstract concept irrelevant to retailers. The cost is whatever figure secures a place at the front of the line with a dealer fortunate enough to land one of the 500 global allocations Bentley has made available—stress on made. It’s sold out worldwide.
It’s unfortunate that Bentley’s inaugural enticing venture into the track-day arena will be limited to such a small production run, but the Supersports conclusively demonstrates two things. First, Bentley can produce a performance coupe that weighs less than your family-sized SUV, and second, there’s backing within Bentley for pursuing such luxuries.
They have my vote too.
Bentley facilitated travel, accommodation, and access to the vehicle for the purpose of composing this review.
2027 Bentley Continental Supersports Specifications
| Base Price | $490,150 |
| Powertrain | 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 | 8-speed dual-clutch automatic | rear-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 657 |
| Torque | 490 lb-ft |
| Seating Capacity | 2 |
| Curb Weight | 4,400 lbs est. |
| 0-62 mph | 3.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 192 mph |
| EPA Fuel Economy | TBA |
| Score | 9/10 |
Quick Insights
Finally, a proper track-day Bentley. But good luck trying to find one.
**2027 Bentley Supersports First Drive Review: A Comprehensive Examination of Bentley’s Optimal Lightweight Sports Car**
The 2027 Bentley Supersports signifies a major shift in the luxury manufacturer’s offerings, merging the brand’s rich legacy with state-of-the-art technology and performance. As the most recent iteration of Bentley’s performance-focused vehicles, the Supersports seeks to reset expectations of what a lightweight sports car can embody, all while preserving the luxury and craftsmanship synonymous with the brand.
**Design and Aesthetics**
The exterior of the 2027 Supersports is a captivating fusion of aerodynamics and sophistication. The vehicle showcases a contoured body with bold lines that amplify its athletic stance. The front design features a prominent grille and sleek LED headlights, while the rear is marked by a unique spoiler and quad exhaust outlets that suggest the power contained within. Lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum are employed throughout the body, leading to a considerable decrease in weight without sacrificing structural strength.
Inside, the Supersports upholds Bentley’s luxurious standards. The interior is embellished with premium leather, meticulously crafted wood veneers, and advanced technology. The driver-oriented cockpit includes a digital instrument cluster and a state-of-the-art infotainment system, ensuring that both performance and comfort are given priority.
**Performance and Handling**
Beneath the hood, the 2027 Supersports is driven by a powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering an impressive power output of over 600 horsepower. This powertrain is coupled with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, enabling quick gear changes and a thrilling driving experience. The vehicle’s lightweight design enhances its nimbleness, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds.
The Supersports is equipped with an advanced all-wheel-drive system that ensures exceptional grip and stability, particularly in demanding driving conditions. The adaptive suspension system adjusts in real-time to road conditions, providing a smooth ride while maintaining sharp handling properties. Drivers can choose from multiple driving modes, customizing the vehicle’s dynamics to their liking, whether they prefer a comfy ride or a spirited drive on twisting roads.
**Technology and Features**
The 2027 Supersports comes with a range of cutting-edge technology features aimed at improving both performance and convenience. An extensive driver assistance system includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system, offering reassurance on the road. The infotainment setup features a high-resolution touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, and a premium audio system, ensuring a connected and enjoyable experience for passengers.
**Driving Experience**
During the initial drive, the Supersports impresses with its combination of power and refinement. The engine produces a robust growl, while the responsive steering and precise handling build the driver’s confidence. Whether maneuvering through urban streets or tackling curvy mountain roads, the Supersports appears balanced and serene. The lightweight design is particularly apparent in its agility, allowing for swift directional changes without compromising stability.
**Conclusion**
The 2027 Bentley Supersports is an extraordinary accomplishment in the realm of luxury sports vehicles. It effectively merges the brand’s dedication to craft with a focus on performance and innovation. With its lightweight architecture, formidable engine, and modern technology, the Supersports establishes a new benchmark for what a luxury sports car can achieve. For enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating driving adventure without sacrificing luxury, the 2027 Bentley Supersports stands ready to be the ideal option.