Bentley today issues the first photograph – albeit in annoying, teaser form – of its important new 2010 Arnage replacement. We’ll see the new limousine, which isn’t expected to be called Arnage, for real later in summer 2009.
This single photo of the Arnage successor suggests that the new saloon will pioneer a further evolution of the Bentley design DNA from the Continental series of models. The architectural quality of the front wheelarch and wing suggests a regal quality befitting a car that’s aimed squarely at the Rolls-Royce Phantom slice of the market.
The winged ‘B’ Bentley badge sits prominently above what appears to be an imposing, upright grille. Bentley is eager to reposition the new 2010 Arnage replacement to put even more clear water between it and the Conti family which is expanding upwards in price and power with numerous additions to the range.
How much will the new 2010 Arnage cost?
The new limo will cost around £250,000 to £300,000. Information is still sketchy, but we understand the running gear of today’s Arnage is carried over in heavily modified form, stretching the wheelbase by around 150mm to take the newcomer to some 5500mm in length.
And the 6.75-litre V8 is expected to survive, too, bolstered by clever fuel-saving tech, including cylinder deactivation to mix 550bhp power with acceptable thirst. Given Crewe’s expertise in biofuels with the recent Continental Supersports, an E85 version is likely.
Bentley’s new Arnage: the official statement
An unusually brief paragraph accompanies today’s photo and video. Here’s the press statement in full:
‘The reason I bought a Bentley was because of its exceptional performance in all respects on the road. Such features… leave nothing to be desired.’
Noel Van Raalte, WO Bentley’s first customer, October 1921
‘An all-new grand Bentley “exceptional in all respects on the road” will debut this summer. Designed, engineered and built in Crewe, it will be the purest expression of the Bentley spirit.’