One of the joys of owning a 2010s car is that it comes from a happier time in automotive design. Before giant iPads swallowed every dashboard whole, tactile buttons, chunky switchgear, and a warm sense of analog fuzziness were the norm, not a USP wheeled out in press releases.
Which makes Bentley’s new infotainment upgrade for its second-generation Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur rather interesting.
The upgrade replaces the original infotainment screen, its buttons, and the climate-control panel with a new 9.7-inch touchscreen boasting a 2K-resolution display. Yes, you read that right—in a move that goes against the current anti-touchscreen trend, Bentley has decided to ditch the physical controls.
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Bentley’s defense? A larger display, sharper graphics, and a less cluttered center console for your old smoker. Beyond the screen itself, the new system adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Owners also get upgraded navigation with 2D and 3D route guidance, speed-limit information, and the ability to install future map updates. Handy.
Bentley reckons the upgrade will drag its older luxury barges into the modern age, introducing the convenience of a modern luxury car without compromising the character of the originals too much, to ensure “a lifetime of ownership enjoyment.”
We're not entirely convinced everyone will agree. The upgrade also costs around £3,000 (around P253,100), which is a hefty chunk of cash. So, has Bentley future-proofed one of its finest interiors, or chipped away at what made it special?
NOTE: This article first appeared on TopGear.com. Minor edits have been made.
