Bentley Infotainment Upgrade Brings CarPlay and Android Auto to Earlier Models

Bentley centre console with upgraded touchscreen showing smartphone apps and climate controls
The Bentley Infotainment Upgrade combines smartphone apps and climate controls in a new 9.7-inch screen. Photo: Bentley Motors.

Bentley has introduced a factory infotainment upgrade for second-generation Continental GT, GT Convertible and Flying Spur models. Available through Bentley retailers, the replacement unit brings Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and updated navigation to cars whose cabins predate today’s smartphone connections.

The Bentley Infotainment Upgrade is aimed at owners who want newer technology without replacing their car. It fits into the existing centre console, but this is more than a software update: the new hardware replaces both the original infotainment screen and the physical heater controls with a larger touchscreen.

A new screen, with climate controls included

The 9.7-inch display has 2K resolution and graphics developed with Bentley’s design team. Climate settings move onto the touchscreen, a change worth noting for anyone who prefers the original physical controls. Bentley says the new processor also brings quicker responses to touch inputs and simpler voice commands.

Both wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. The system can handle phone calls, contacts and music, while integrated navigation provides 2D and 3D route guidance, points of interest and speed-limit information. Mapping can be updated rather than remaining fixed to the data supplied with the car.

Second-generation Bentley Continental GT in a studio with its headlights on
Bentley’s US page lists Continental GT and GTC models built in 2012-2017 among the eligible cars. Photo: Bentley Motors.

Check the model years and regional specification

Although the launch release describes second-generation cars built between 2012 and 2019 collectively, Bentley’s US product page gives more specific fitment information: Continental GT and GTC models built in 2012-2017, and Flying Spur models built in 2014-2019. Owners should confirm compatibility with their Bentley retailer rather than assume every car across that wider period qualifies.

The US page also notes that products and features vary by region. It lists FM, AM and SXM radio, with SXM available in the USA and Canada at additional cost and requiring an active subscription. The media release mentions DAB+ where DAB was previously available. Flying Spur integration can include the rear passenger touchscreen.

No installed price is given in the release or the US product page. Retailers are the point of contact for compatibility, regional features and a quotation. For owners keeping one of these British grand tourers for the long term, the appeal is straightforward: retain the car and cabin they know, while bringing the screen and phone connection closer to current expectations.

Sources and photographs: Bentley Motors media release; Bentley US product and fitment information.

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