- Bentley nearing completion of Batur Convertible development
- Limited-run convertible and coupe are among the last Bentley models to feature the iconic W-12 engine
- W-12’s successor is a more powerful V-8 plug-in hybrid system
On Tuesday, Bentley announced that the development of the exclusive Batur Convertible is entering its final stage, indicating that customer production will commence soon.
The Batur was first introduced as a coupe in 2022 as a farewell to Bentley’s classic W-12 engine, which ended production in July. The company later unveiled the Batur Convertible in May, with a limited run of just 16 units—two fewer than the coupe’s production.
Despite the limited number of units, the development process for the Batur Convertible is nearly as comprehensive as that of Bentley’s standard production models. The program includes 120 individual tests conducted over the span of a year, featuring a long-distance drive from Germany to Spain and high-speed tests at the Idiada proving grounds near Barcelona.
Two prototypes were created for the development phase, where every detail was meticulously analyzed, from the quality of the gold-accented dashboard controls to the specialized engine control software for the familiar 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W-12. Named after Bali’s Lake Batur, this model boasts a stunning 740 hp, making it the most powerful iteration of the W-12. The coupe achieves 0-62 mph in just 3.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 209 mph, and the convertible is expected to deliver comparable performance.
Bentley Batur Convertible
The prototypes have successfully completed the journey from Germany to Spain and are currently at the Idiada proving grounds. There, they will undergo seven weeks of durability testing, including evaluations on various handling tracks, mixed road conditions, high-speed tests, and rugged terrain. A significant focus of the testing will be on the performance of the convertible roof, which can be raised or lowered in just 19 seconds while traveling at speeds of up to 30 mph.
Both the Batur and Batur Convertible are among the final Bentley models to utilize the W-12 engine. Bentley has not yet disclosed which will be the last car to feature this engine. The company has already introduced its replacement, a V-8 plug-in hybrid system that debuted in June with the updated Continental GT Speed and has also made its way into the refreshed Flying Spur Speed. This powertrain is rated at 771 hp for those models, with lower-powered versions likely appearing in other vehicles within the Bentley range in the future.
Additionally, Bentley is planning to transition to electric vehicles, albeit at a more gradual pace than initially intended. The company’s first electric vehicle is expected to launch in late 2026.
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