Muhammed Nafie joins a convoy drive of exclusive Bentley cars on the picturesque winding roads of Muscat and test drives some of the latest models of the luxury brand.
Sitting behind the wheel of a Continental GT, a Mulsanne or a Flying Spur, pushing them to their limits as they cruise along a scenic convoy drive of exclusive Bentley cars, is an exhilarating experience. The media test drive organised by Bentley Oman was a unique opportunity to have a closer acquaintance with Bentley brand and experience some of its 2016 models in a relaxed, fun setting.
We began our journey from Shangri-La‘s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa and proceeded to Mattrah Corniche via Old Muscat. From Corniche, we swapped cars and drove to Al Wadi Al Kabir from where we set off on the final leg of the drive through the picturesque winding roads of Qantab leading to Yiti. Hosted in characteristic Bentley luxury, the trip ended on a high note, back at Shangri La, where the participants were treated to scrumptious lunch cuisines.
New style and technology
Bentley vehicles are globally recognised as the last word in high performance automotive luxury. Bearing a testimony to this was 2016 Bentley Continental GT. The new model is refreshed with a complement of new exterior design features, aimed at sharpening the on-road presence of the iconic Grand Tourer. The new Bentley Continental GT sports an even more powerful W12 twin turbo engine, up to 590 PS from 575 PS, and an innovative variable displacement system that creates more power, but with lower emissions than ever before.
Alongside this increased performance is a suite of refinements to create the most luxurious travelling experience. They include a new, more sculpted and sporty steering wheel allowing the driver’s hands to fit, and connect, more closely with the car. There’s an optional semi-aniline hide that forms the enhanced straight-flute seating for an even more luxurious travelling experience. Supercar speed meets handcrafted luxury.
Unadulterated luxury
The 2016 Flying Spur showcases additional features and offers even more bespoke choice. The Flying Spur V8, a recent addition to the family, is the embodiment of everything Bentley stands for: pure unadulterated luxury combined with outstanding performance. The W12’s lighter, leaner sibling combines an upright grille, large jewel LED headlamps, sharp fender wing vents and the Flying Spur’s familiar contemporary lines to present a muscular yet elegant exterior design, now further refined with a choice of striking new alloy wheels.
Inside, Bentley’s famous craftsmanship is evident throughout, while touchscreen access to the latest in-car technology is provided for both driver and passengers. But it is what’s under the bonnet that really sets the heart racing. A powerful 4.0 litre V8 twin-turbocharged engine produces 507PS of power, coupled with a smooth 8-speed quick-shift transmission. It responds to the flick of a finger thanks to the new gearshift paddles on the sports steering wheel. Add Bentley’s renowned all-wheel drive and the Flying Spur V8 delivers exhilarating performance alongside exquisite sophistication.
Car for independent thinkers
Tailored for the driver, the Mulsanne is the flagship of the Bentley range with its exquisite blend of effortless driveability and unrivalled luxury. The 2016 Mulsanne Speed benefits from a revised 6.75 litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that has been designed to boost acceleration, power and torque. But it’s the numbers that matter: 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds (100 km/h in 4.9 seconds) and a top speed of 190mph (305 km/h).
Yet the Mulsanne Speed is much more than just a powerhouse. It is a car for independent thinkers. For those with the unquenchable desire to take the wheel and change the world, there is no more accomplished combination of performance, luxury and style.