Brief

Bentley unveils 2026 Supersports, a $486,600 rear‑drive V8 track car

The limited‑run Supersports replaces all‑wheel‑drive and hybrid components with a pure‑combustion layout for track‑focused performance.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:44:22 GMT

Bentley announced the 2026 Supersports on October 10, positioning it as a rear‑drive, combustion‑only counterpart to the Continental GT. Priced at $486,600 in the United States, the model has already sold out, with each buyer working with Bentley’s Mulliner division on bespoke personalization, according to Popsci.

What happened

The Supersports stems from an internal "what‑if" study that asked engineers to strip the Continental GT of its all‑wheel‑drive system and hybrid powertrain. Removing those components shed roughly 1,000 lb, allowing the car to focus on pure on‑track performance. The result is a rear‑wheel‑drive sedan powered by a souped‑up version of the GT’s 4.0‑liter twin‑turbo V8, now delivering 657 horsepower and 590 lb‑ft of torque.

What the reports add

Popsci notes that the engine features larger‑diameter single‑scroll turbochargers and a dual‑mass flywheel, while the transmission is a ZF‑supplied eight‑speed dual‑clutch unit that can shift automatically or manually. Carbon‑fiber body panels, forged‑aluminum wheels and a titanium Akrapovič active exhaust further reduce weight and enhance aerodynamics. The active exhaust can be dialed up for a louder track note or turned down for quieter street driving.

What was said

Mike Rocco, Bentley Americas President and CEO, told Popsci that the carbon‑fiber elements are "all purposeful; it is for downforce and to help the wind clear and cool the car as it’s being driven." He also emphasized the philosophy behind the car, saying, "Less is more" when describing the stripped‑down approach.

How it came about

The Supersports follows Bentley’s recent electrification push, highlighted by the fully electric Torcal SUV launched in September 2026. By contrast, the Supersports demonstrates the brand’s willingness to retain a pure‑combustion offering for enthusiasts seeking a track‑oriented experience.

Key facts

• The 2026 Bentley Supersports starts at $486,600 in the US. (popsci.com)
• It produces 657 hp and 590 lb‑ft of torque from a twin‑turbo 4.0‑liter V8. (popsci.com)
• The car sheds about 1,000 lb by removing all‑wheel‑drive and hybrid components. (popsci.com)
• Carbon‑fiber bodywork, forged aluminum wheels and a titanium Akrapovič exhaust contribute to weight reduction. (popsci.com)
• Mike Rocco, Bentley Americas President, said the carbon‑fiber is "all purposeful" for downforce and cooling. (popsci.com)

Sources

• [1] popsci.com — originally reported as “The 2026 Bentley Supersports is what happens when you combine luxury with on-track performance”