The fastest and most powerful four-seat luxury Bentley has been unveiled in the shape of the 209mph Continental Supersports which can notch up the 0-60mph sprint in just 3.4 seconds.

And for anyone who enjoys the thrill of wind-in-the-hair driving, there is an open-top model on the way too which is no slouch either with a top speed of 205mph and a 0-60mph sprint time of 3.7 seconds. That makes it the world’s fastest four-seat convertible.

Power for the new models comes via Bentley’s 700bhp W12 engine redeveloped for the Supersports with new high-performance turbos and engine hardware. The cars also have a torque vectoring system to maximise traction.

Key to the new Supersports’ power increase over the outgoing model are the newly designed, higher-capacity turbochargers and a revised charge-air cooling system which create more boost and additional power.

There is increase of 79bhp from the 2009 Supersports model – a 10 per cent power-to-weight improvement and the maximum speed rises by 5mph. Carbon emissions come in at 358g/km with combined fuel economy expected to be no more than 18mpg.

To increase stopping power the new Supersports is fitted with high-performance carbon ceramic brakes – the largest of their type fitted to any car so far.

The Continental Supersports retains the Bentley all-wheel-drive system, sending 60 per cent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels for a more balanced and sportier character.

As far as exterior styling is concerned the vehicle features a sculpted front and rear bumper design incorporating a carbon-fibre splitter and diffuser, new side sill extensions and bonnet vents, dark-tint headlamps and tail-lamps, and a complement of black-finished brightware to the front grilles, lights, rear bumper, door handles and window surrounds.  There is also an optional rear spoiler and front splitter.

The new Supersports Convertible comes with a multi-layer hood and a neck warmer for days out in cooler weather.

Wolfgang Durheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, said: “The Supersports name is legendary at Bentley. From the very first Supersports of the 1920s, to the Continental Supersports of 2009 – and now with the third iteration of this iconic model – it is a name which excites, impassions and thrills. Only Bentley could create a car which blends immense performance and unrivalled luxury in this way.”

The new Bentley, which goes on sale later this year, is expected to carry a price-tag of about £200,000.