Bentley has unveiled its first V8-powered Continental models, which will complement the 6.2-litre W12-engined Continentals already on sale.

The new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 delivers 500bhp to provide a 4.6-second 0-60mph sprint and 188mph top speed, and will be launched in the GT and GTC models, priced £123,850 and £136,250 respectively.

However it also offers lower emissions and better economy, said Bentley, and will ensure the model can offer more than 500 miles range on one tank of fuel.

The red winged ‘B’ and black gloss grille provide a strong indicator that a different Bentley powerplant nestles in the engine bay of the Continental GT V8 and its convertible stablemate.

The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40% improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2emissions.

The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode 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.