BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT W12 TRANSMISSION NPM 6HP2 2011-2018

Bentley Continental GT W12 (2011–2018), the transmission code NPM refers to the specific factory-original calibration of the ZF 6HP28 6-speed automatic gearbox.

While the 2011–2018 facelift eventually transitioned the W12 engine to an 8-speed (ZF 8HP90), the 6-speed 6HP28 (NPM) remained the primary unit for the early-facelift W12 models (roughly 2011–2013) and specific regional variants.

1. Technical Specifications (NPM / 6HP28)

The 6HP28 was a significant evolution of the earlier 6HP26, featuring a faster “leaking” torque converter lock-up and more aggressive shifting logic.

• Manufacturer: ZF Friedrichshafen

• Torque Capacity: ~700 Nm (516 lb-ft). Note that the W12 is often software-limited in lower gears to protect this unit.

• Configuration: AWD (Integrated center differential/transfer case).

• Gear Ratios:

  • 1st: 4.17

  • 2nd: 2.34

  • 3rd: 1.52

  • 4th: 1.14

  • 5th: 0.87

  • 6th: 0.69

  • Reverse: 3.40

2. Fitment & Interchangeability

The NPM code is specific to the Bentley application. While other luxury cars (BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover) use the 6HP28, you cannot swap a standard BMW 6HP28 into a Continental GT.

• Bellhousing: The Bentley unit features a unique bolt pattern for the 6.0L W12 engine.

• Drivetrain: The NPM unit includes the specific AWD output and internal center differential required for the Bentley’s 40:60 (or 50:50 on earlier versions) power split.

• Mechatronics: The internal Transmission Control Unit (TCU) is coded with Bentley-specific software and Component Protection. If swapping a used unit, the TCU may need to be “virginized” or swapped from your original gearbox to avoid immobilizer lock-out.

3. Service Data for Inventory

If you are cataloging this part for your business, ensure the following specs are noted:

• Fluid: ZF LifeGuard 6 (Shell M-1375.4). Do not use LifeGuard 8, which is for the 8-speed units.

• Filter/Pan: Integrated plastic pan and filter (standard ZF 6HP design).

• Common OE Part Numbers: 09E300041 (plus variant suffixes).

4. Technical Comparison: 6-Speed vs. 8-Speed

During the 2011–2018 production run, the Continental GT saw a gearbox split:

• 2011–2013 W12: Often retained the 6-speed 6HP28 (NPM).

• 2014+ W12 / All V8s: Switched to the 8-speed 8HP90 (W12) or 8HP70 (V8).

Buyer’s Tip: To verify if a car has the NPM 6-speed or the later 8-speed, check the shifter. The 6-speed uses the older “straight gate” style or specific knurled knob, while the 8-speed units have a slightly different console interface and significantly improved fuel economy ratings.