Bentley Continental GT now Even Speedier

Bentley’s W12 is dead, supplanted by a V8 plug-in hybrid, as previewed in May. The company has now revealed the vehicle that will debut the ‘Ultra-Performance’ powerhouse, the new Continental GT Speed. 

Available as a GT coupe and a GTC convertible, the company says that over two-thirds of its components are new. Carried over from the previous generation are the MSB platform and basic body structure, both upgraded.

The powertrain is fresh, even if the biturbo 4.0L V8 engine is heavily revised. It has system power of 575kW and a plump round 1000Nm of torque. That’s 90kW and 100Nm more than the former GT Speed could muster and makes this the most powerful Bentley in the company’s history. 

It’s even quicker now too, as a result, Bentley suggesting a 0-100 time of 3.2sec and a top speed of 335km/h. Impressive when you consider both models weigh in around 2.5 tonnes.

Most of the power (436kW) comes from the V8 while a 140kW electric motor mounted between the engine and the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission provides the balance. A 25.9kWh battery pack mounted aft of the rear seats supplies the motor. That helps with weight distribution, improving to 49/51 front/rear. 

DC fast charging is not possible but the battery pack imparts a zero-emissions range of 80km at speeds up to 140km/h. It also helps reduce CO2 emissions to 29g/km.

The motor, aside from permitting fume-free progress, infills torque at engine revs where the turbochargers aren’t creating full boost. Speed’s V8 engine no longer has cylinder deactivation as it can sail along on electric power alone. 

Bentley has adopted new dual-valve damper technology that pairs with a dual-chamber air suspension system. This gives a wider spread of comfort and sporting ability, especially since the firm now uses a 48V active anti-roll system. The stability control system is also new. In Dynamic mode the rear end can slip slightly, but ESP remains on high alert in case it all goes pear shaped.

Adding to on-road ability is standard-fit rear-wheel steering and an electronically-controlled limited slip differential. The standard brake system comprises 420mm steel discs, while 420mm carbon-ceramic discs clamped by 10-piston front calipers are a cost option. 

Styling changes are relatively minor, using cues from Batur and Bacalar. The main point of difference is a single round LED lamp with a horizontal bar (eyebrow) instead of dual headlights each side. A smaller grille and simplified bumper impart a more modern appearance. It’s the same at the rear, with more contemporary shapes for the taillights and exhaust outlets. The former evidently give a “molten lava” effect when in use. There’s also a new 22-inch wheel design, and more paint options. The bodywork is said to be more muscular than before.

Minor changes in the cabin include updates to the infotainment system, and a revised centre console with simpler switchgear. There are also new materials and equipment options.

The changes apply to both the Coupe and the GTC which retains a folding fabric roof available in seven colours. It can be raised or lowered in 19 seconds, at speeds of up to 50km/h. 

The Continental GT Speed will be the sole model in the line-up for the time being. Bentley says the PHEV powertrain will carry over to both the Flying Spur and Bentayga in the near future.