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Bentley Continental GT as 2004 Car of the Year Says Robb Report Magazine

Bentley Beats Out Lamborghini Gallardo and Maybach 62 to Win Top Pick

When introduced last year at the 2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, an event that marks its annual return this week, Bentleys Continental GT literally stole the show for production cars.

Although its introduction was relatively low-key compared to Jay Lenos 7:30 AM monologue on behalf of Maybachs luxurious 62, and Rolls-Royces less graceful but nevertheless impressive Phantom, whose introduction was interrupted by an annoying (although slightly humorous) blast from Dodges 500-hp Tomahawk motorcycle, it was the Bentley that caused the majority of positive commotion.

Sure Cadillacs Sixteen concept and Fords cool Mustang GT concept

Since its North American debute in January of 2003, the Bentley Continental GT has won a host of awards with the latest being luxury lifestyle magazine Robb Reports 2004 Car of the Year. (Photo: Bentley Motors)

were each sensational, but it was the Continental GT that walked away with best production car in show honors. Over the last year it has won a host of awards, with the latest being luxury lifestyle magazine Robb Reports 2004 Car of the Year.

The magazines editors, that include Senior Vice President/Creative Director and automotive editor of The Robb Report Collection Robert Ross, Editor-at-Large Paul Dean, and Associate Editors Christian Gulliksen and Fluto Shinzawa,

Robb Report announced its annual winner, based on a vehicles technical design, styling, performance and premium level exclusivity. (Photo: Bentley Motors)

gave the Continental GT top marks for its "exceptional security at speed, the ultimate exhilaration of getting there and the distinction, elegance and comfort in luxury that is an absolute."

Robb Report announced its annual winner, based on a vehicles technical design, styling, performance and premium level exclusivity, at the 2004 Los Angeles auto show on December 30.

And it wasnt like the competition was easy. Finalists included the Audi RS6, BMW 645Ci, Cadillac XLR, Jaguar XJR, Lamborghini Gallardo, Maybach 62, Morgan Aero 8, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, Rolls-Royce Phantom and Subaru WRX STi.

What gave Bentley

"An ungoverned, 190-mile-per-hour supercar and the fastest four-seat family car in the world." (Photo: Bentley Motors)

the deciding edge? Dean wrote that the Bentley Continental GT is "an ungoverned, 190-mile-per-hour supercar and the fastest four-seat family car in the world," in the magazines recent cover story.

The report is also impressed by the cars twin-turbocharged W12 engine that "pumps out an eager 552 horsepower and a highly useful 479 lb ft of torque."

The editors of the luxury lifestyle magazine were also wooed by the Bentleys beautifully crafted cabin, stating that there is "no high-tech kevlar, faux suedes, or long stretches of brushed aluminum here."

Dean added, "Just those signature mirror-matched grains in the woods and veneers, peerless and unblemished hides, and carpets more expensive than most shoes, all of which creates an aura of modest indulgence."

Robb Report Senior Vice President, Editorial Brett Anderson was in agreement stating that the

Another big factor in the editors decision was the interior; "No high-tech kevlar, faux suedes, or long stretches of brushed aluminum here." (Photo: Bentley Motors)

Bentley Continental GTs introduction "is a truly significant development in automotive history. Our selection of this motorcar from a field of 12 exceptional sports and luxury automobiles takes into account not only its qualitative performance, but the significance and magnitude that it brings to the marketplace."

Such praise is obviously music to the ears of Bentley Motors CEO Alasdair Stewart, who commented that the award "is one of the most important honors this car has received, and helps to further strengthen the Bentley brand position. Reaction to the Continental GT has exceeded expectations, with more than 2,900 orders having arrived from people who havent even had the opportunity to drive it."

Those prospective customers wont be disappointed when they get their first chance behind the wheel. Even the current Bentley Arnage is a drivers car of the first order, offering stunning acceleration and athletic road manners. The new Continental GT reportedly takes driving dynamics a step beyond, while living up to the revered marques storied history of opulence.

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