Bentley’s new-generation Continental GT was revealed recently, ahead of its formal debut in Frankfurt in October. Youthful, tech-adept, and packed with classic Bentley extravagance, it represents the next evolutionary phase for the model.

The Continental’s revision is a big step for the company. Bentley enticed a whole generation of new customers with the Continental. The superb sales performance of the model has made it Bentley’s flagship production car, and the significant changes of a design overhaul had to be carried off with aplomb.

Success. A quick look finds this Continental artfully blending classic Bentley bulldog aggression with fleet, fluid lines. The fastback shape of the car is even more pronounced, and the fascia presents a more subdued first impression. It looks more daring than the previous Continental. The applause Bentley received for their EXP 10 Speed 6 concept coupe resonated loudly in the ears of Bentley’s designers and executives.

Bentley used their behemoth of a powerplant for this newest phase of the Continental GT, and the 6.0L W12 here pumps out 626 horsepower to provide the 8-speed, AWD drivetrain with 664 pound-feet of torque. The car’s tech suite includes an engine computer that continuously monitors conditions to adjust fuel efficiency. Top speed is 207 MPH, and the car can launch to 60 in 3.6 seconds.

The interior of the new touring car is just as impressive. Wood and bronze trim and appointments, a 650-watt sound system (a 2,200-watt Naim is optional for audiophile drivers), a head-up display, night vision, driver assist, and a 12.3” retina display that rotates out of sight when the car is turned off—a first for the industry—are among the car’s long list of luxurious touches.

Bentley expects to begin deliveries in the middle of next year.