Life’s a breeze
The tropical island breezes of Langkawi ushered in the unique Bentley Extraordinary Getaway from 1 to 3 September, 2016. On the island’s northwestern tip, guests of Bentley Kuala Lumpur arrived at The Datai resort’s expansively luxuriant grounds. “This getaway brings together extraordinary customers, the complete Bentley model line-up and event partners for a 360-degree brand experience,” commented Jerry Lee, general manager for Bentley Kuala Lumpur.
A morning of golfing at the award-winning Els Club Teluk Datai was soon followed by a cruise aboard a Princess Yacht into the turquoise Andaman Sea. Back on the island, guests were then offered the smorgasbord of Bentley driving experiences. Langkawi’s sinuous roads proved excellent circuits for the Continental GT V8 S, the Flying Spur V8 and the new Bentayga SUV.
Proving its sporty credentials among the sharp bends and undulating curves was the Continental GT V8 S. Its 4.0-litre V8 produces 520bhp and 680Nm of torque. Its interior matches up as well, with the Mulliner Driving Specification – a standard on the GT Speed – conferring traditional automotive detailing such as quilted seats and knurled details on the gear-shift paddles. On the other hand, the Flying Spur V8 performance sedan offered dynamism and an incredibly smooth drive aided, in part, by its computer-controlled air suspension that works to maximise the cushioning on impact.
A built-up anticipation for the new Bentayga (from RM1.8 million) – available for preview before its regional launch – ensured it was the most desired model for guests. The Bentayga’s state-of-the-art assistance systems and new W12 engine delivers an SUV experience like no other before – enabling Bentley to easily call it the world’s most powerful and fastest SUV.
In the evening, wood craftsman Dave Maddock – a 40-year veteran at Bentley – offered insights into the various veneers and the exhaustive 17-day process in which wood is integrated into a Bentley automobile. His vivid description of the woodshop’s flavours and scents – the sweet smell of straight grain walnut – conjured visions of traditional British motoring craftsmanship, as did his references of cross veneers commissioned by British furniture maker, Lord David Linley. The viscount had, in 2011, requested for what Maddock considered to be the most technically challenging designs of cross veneers: 10 units in a made for China-only fleet of the Continental Flying Spur Linley edition.
