As with VW's previous "W" engines, the new mill combines a pair of V6s and shares the basic
layout and displacement with its predecessor. Otherwise, Bentley says, it was essentially redesigned
from the ground up. At 560 pounds, the all-new engine is 66 pounds lighter and 24 percent shorter
than the outgoing W12. High-pressure (2,900 psi) direct fuel injection is teamed with low-pressure
(87 psi) multi-port injection, which Bentley says reduces particulate emissions while enhancing
refnement, torque delivery and cold-start performance. The twin-scroll turbos, which are welded
directly to the exhaust manifolds, feature integrated speed sensors that enable real-time perfor-
mance adjustments to maximize efciency.
A new cylinder deactivation system runs the engine at half capacity when the vehicle is cruising
in third gear or higher and generating less than 220 lb-ft of torque. The stop-start system shuts the
engine of when the vehicle isn't moving as well as during low-speed coasting. When coasting at
highway speeds, the torque converter is opened and the engine is idled. Bentley says the various
features make the new engine 10 percent more fuel efcient than the outgoing W12.
The plush interior
features an upgraded
infotainment system
and premium
materials.
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COVER STORY