In an effort to reduce emissions and improve fuel-economy ultra premium brand Bentley is looking to downsize with the introduction of an all-new V8 engine.

As previously reported, Bentley is looking to sister brand Audi to co-develop a new direct-injection 4.0 liter V8 engine to be used in the Continental GT and future Audi performance models. Bentley says the new 4.0 liter direct-injection V8 will cut CO2 emission on the Continental GT model by a substantial 40 percent.

Latest reports reveal the new V8 unit will be available in two versions. According to Autocar, the first version will have a single turbocharger producing 415 bhp (309 kW / 420 PS). The second version will be twin-turbocharged unit making 555 bhp (413 kW / 563 PS) - in line with Bentley's target output of at least 100 bhp per liter.

The 4.0 liter V8 engine will debut in the Bentley Continental GT near the end 2011.

Meanwhile, Autocar also reports that 2011 production for the Mulsanne is already reserved. The Arnage successor which starts at £220,000 is powered by a 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 505 bhp (377 kW / 512 PS) and 752 lb-ft (1020 Nm) of torque.

Source: autocar.co.uk

 

So I'm guessing the next gen R8 will have these two engine variants and no more V10.

I'm guessing next Gallardo will have naturally aspirated V10 with 600 bhp, slots comfortably above the 555 bhp R8.

Turbo for Audi, NA for Lambo ?