Bentley Introduces Dynamic New Continental GT Speed
Bentley has revealed the most dynamic road car in their 101 year history with a performance-focus interpretation of their Continental GT, the benchmark for luxury grand tourers. It’s the latest edition of their Speed models dating back to the 1920s and continues the tradition of representing the ultimate combination of luxury and performance.
As the naming of the Continental GT Speed implies, this is the fastest and most capable Continental you can buy, but it’s not as simple as just giving the new model more power. However, as you could probably guess the turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 makes 650bhp, 24bhp more than the previous range-topping model. This means that it can hit 60mph in just 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 206mph.
While you have more power, you can also use it more effectively with the new eight-speed automatic transmission that is twice is quick. While rear-wheel steering, that was first seen on the Flying Spur late last year, also makes an appearance to aid in the car’s dynamics. This also makes in more agile and increases the performance you can get out of this beast of a car.
This is where the ‘more dynamic’ characteristic of Bentley’s press material surrounding the Speed begins. At lower speeds the rear wheel steering makes it more responsive and combined with the quicker steering racks makes the Speed feel more nimble than any of its predecessors. Though at higher speeds it works differently, the rear wheel turning is set to match the front wheels which effectively lengthens the wheelbase and provides more stability.
In addition, the Speed also has an electronically controlled limited-slip diff on the rear axle — the first time on any Bentley ever. It works in hand with Bentley’s Dynamic Ride system, stability control system and air suspension to increase the traction the Speed can achieve out of corners, no matter what weather conditions it faces.
Dr. Matthias Rabe, Member of the Board for Engineering at Bentley Motors, comments:
“The new Continental GT Speed represents the very pinnacle of performance grand touring. This new model is the most powerful expression of Continental GT values, exciting and dynamic, with unique Speed detailing to enhance the ownership experience and offering customers more control over the character of the car.
“The world’s most luxurious Grand Tourer is now truly more capable than ever before, with a new sportier edge which will appeal to performance-focused drivers. The Speed is the latest chapter in the Continental GT story, helping Bentley customers to create their own extraordinary journeys.”
Aesthetically, the Speed features muscular body work with a blacked-out grille, unique fender vents and new carbon fibre side skirts. This is topped off by the unique ‘Speed’ badging that helps you differentiate it from the “standard” Continental GT. While on the inside there is a mix of luxurious primary and secondary leathers that can be customised 26 different ways, as well as Alcantara accents that provide an extra special sense of luxury.
Deliveries of the Bentley Continental GT Speed are expected to begin in the Autumn and is currently available to order in all markets, except mainland China, and is currently not available in EU27, UK, Switzerland, Israel, Ukraine, Norway, Turkey and Vietnam.
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