A coupe-like speedster based on the Bentley Bakalar EXP 100 GT concept will make its debut.
Bentley chief designer Stefan Sielaff will oversee Mulliner's personalization department in 2017, preparing for an increase in special bodied models such as the 2016 Grand Limousine and 2017 Grand Convertible. In addition, it has been given a new task.
While all of these models are very similar to the Mulsanne on which they are based, the new Bacalar unveiled Tuesday by Bentley looks more like the spectacular EXP 100 GT concept unveiled last year than anyone in Bentley's current lineup - distinctive. It's a speedster.
In the words of Bentley CEO Adrian Hallmark, it is "the ultimate expression of a luxury open-top grand tourer".
Strictly a two-seater, only 12 examples will be built, and despite a reported price of $1.9 million, the Bentley Grand Tourer will be the "ultimate expression of luxury grand tourer".
The proportions are similar to the Bentley Continental GT convertible on which the car is based, but the headlights at each end and the matching fascia panel are new. The rear deck, with its graceful flying buttresses, has also not been overlooked.
Inside, driver and passenger are separated by a new steeply angled center console that transitions into a cockpit that wraps around both passengers and backs up to a semi-enclosed luggage compartment behind the two seats. Wherever possible, materials from sustainable and ethical sources have been used, including recycled river wood, natural wool and paints containing rice husk ash. According to Bentley representatives, this special paint is an alternative to traditional metal coatings.
Engine Bentley is powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W-12 engine. Instead of the Continental GT's usual 626 hp and 664 lb-ft, here it's tuned for 650 hp and 667 lb-ft of torque, while an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive system complete the mechanical package. Performance figures are not named, but the Conti GT is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds.
According to Bentley officials, the Bacalar is the first test of a new strategy in which the Mulliner division will focus on three key areas: restoration and refurbishment of classic models, production of low-volume coachbuilt cars, and customization of core models.
This strategy has worked well for Bentley's competitors. Ferrari, for example, has for years created one-off cars as part of its "Special Projects" program for the ultra-wealthy who want what their friends and neighbors cannot afford, and Bugatti and McLaren have recently entered the game by producing their own low-production cars. Rolls-Royce has been somewhat more cautious, but has been testing in recent years, including the launch of the impressive Sweptail in 2017.
