Bénéteau has announced the relaunch of two iconic models, the Gran Turismo 35 and Gran Turismo 40, in new Coupé versions. Designed without a hard-top, these sporty cruisers aim to offer more light, simplicity and pleasure at the helm. Officially set to debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025, this evolution illustrates Bénéteau’s strategy to revive proven designs while adapting to the latest expectations of pleasure boating.
A strategic comeback for mid-size cruisers
Positioned just below the Gran Turismo 45, the GT 35 and GT 40 Coupé target a market segment that still shows strong demand, particularly in southern Europe and North America. These compact sport cruisers are tailored for:
- Urban marinas and Mediterranean day boating,
- Enthusiasts seeking simple, easy-to-maintain boats,
- Charter operators looking for efficient, versatile vessels.
By stripping back excess equipment, Bénéteau also responds to a growing trend: buyers looking for performance and elegance, without the weight or complexity of large hard-tops and sliding roofs.
“We see strong demand for elegant, well-designed boats with great performance and easy operation,” said the Bénéteau product team.
What’s new in the Coupé version?
Both the GT 35 and GT 40 will be available in open-roof Coupé configurations, departing from the enclosed sport cruiser style typical of recent models. This version features:
- No electric sunroof or hard-top superstructure,
- Open cockpit feel with improved airflow and visibility,
- Lighter weight, reduced cost, and easier maintenance.
Key technical benefits of the Coupé layout
- Improved speed-to-weight ratio,
- Lower center of gravity for added stability,
- Sleeker, more minimalist silhouette,
- Optimized interior brightness.
Both boats retain their Air Step® hull design, which improves lift, reduces fuel consumption, and enhances handling.
Relaunching two proven models
Instead of developing entirely new platforms, Bénéteau has opted to modernize existing, successful models. The GT 35 and GT 40 were originally launched in the mid-2010s and received positive reviews for their handling and comfort. These refreshed versions maintain:
- Twin diesel engine options (Volvo),
- Two-cabin layouts with convertible saloon,
- Comfortable heads and galley arrangements,
- CE B/C certifications suitable for coastal cruising.
First public reveal: Cannes Yachting Festival 2025
The Gran Turismo 35 Coupé and 40 Coupé will be presented for the first time at the Cannes Yachting Festival, one of the largest international boat shows in Europe. Deliveries are expected to start in early 2025, with orders opening through the Bénéteau dealer network in summer 2024.
Technical specification sheets
Technical Specs – Gran Turismo 35 Coupé
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 11.29 m (approx. 37 ft) |
| Beam | 3.23 m |
| Draft | 0.90 m |
| Light displacement | ~6,000 kg |
| Engines | 2 x Volvo D4 300 HP – Stern-Drive |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Fuel capacity | 2 x 325 L |
| Fresh water capacity | 200 L |
| Cabins | 2 |
| Berths | 4 + 2 (saloon conversion) |
| Bathrooms | 1 |
| Hull design | Air Step® |
| CE Certification | B8 / C10 |
| Top speed (estimated) | ~33 knots |
| Builder | Bénéteau – Challans, France |
| Starting price (2025) | ~€270,000 excl. VAT (estimated) |
Technical Specs – Gran Turismo 40 Coupé
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 12.67 m (approx. 41.6 ft) |
| Beam | 3.85 m |
| Draft | 1.10 m |
| Light displacement | ~7,900 kg |
| Engines | 2 x Volvo D6 380 HP – Shaft Drive |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Fuel capacity | 2 x 325 L |
| Fresh water capacity | 200 L |
| Cabins | 2 |
| Berths | 4 + 2 (saloon conversion) |
| Bathrooms | 1 |
| Hull design | Air Step® 2 |
| CE Certification | B10 / C12 |
| Top speed (estimated) | ~35–38 knots |
| Builder | Bénéteau – Challans, France |
| Starting price (2025) | ~€330,000 excl. VAT (estimated) |