When adding the ‘Speed’ badging to any Bentley model, they’re really not kidding around with just how much speed you’re getting. These are often the fastest and most powerful production models in Bentley’s line-up, and that already-high bar has now been raised. The all-new fourth-generation Bentley Continental GT Speed is upon us, and not only is it the most powerful road-going Bentley ever created, but it now brings hybridisation to the mainstream. This powertrain has paired Bentley’s familiar and old-school 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 with an electric motor.
This ‘Ultra Performance Hybrid’ engine outputs a whopping 782PS and 1,000Nm of torque. To put it simply, this new powertrain has 19% more horsepower and 11% more torque compared to the outgoing W12-powered GT Speed. Combined with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and an electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD), as well as all-wheel drive, the new GT Speed even comes with active torque vectoring, front to rear, through a central differential. All in all, this lets you experience improved handling, maximal traction, and reliable power delivery.
The Most Powerful Road-Going Bentley Yet
It’s ridiculously fast too, as you can imagine. This new 4th-gen Continental GT Speed manages a 0-60mph sprint in just 3.1 seconds and onto a top speed of 208mph. Additionally, thanks to the 25.9kWh battery pack for that hybrid system, you can drive up to 50 miles in pure electric mode. Altogether with Bentley’s completely revamped 400-volt electric architecture, you can hoover around with your Bentley guilt-free, with tailpipe emissions as low as 29 g/km. Plus, it makes for a daily-driveable super-GT too, with a total driving range as far as 534 miles.
Regardless of whether you pick the GT Speed or convertible GTC Speed, you can enjoy better dynamics and handling, as well. With Bentley’s ‘Performance Active Chassis’, including a 48V anti-roll system, and all-wheel steering, not to mention a revised ESC software, it’s by far the most agile and sharpest-handling Bentley models to date. Moreover, Bentley throws in their new twin-valve damping and damper control software, allowing the suspension to cope well with body control. And, the new GT Speed has a near-perfect 49:51 weight distribution.
More Under The Skin Than Just Raw Power
Personally, I quite like how this new generation of Bentley Continental GTs looks, too. However, the highlight of any Bentley is no doubt the cabin. It’s some of the best-looking and best-feeling interiors in any car, with plush leather and lovely stitching. You even get the choice of not one, but three different audio systems, creating an atmosphere fitting for any audiophile. A familiar 12.3-inch rotating infotainment is included, in addition to 30 varying ambient lighting options, as well as 20-way adjustable seats. Tech is another area where we’ve seen huge changes.
Bentley now includes an abundance of driver aids, like intelligent parking assist, and you’ll even enjoy a new air ionisation mode. The latter is clever enough to use the satnav to know if you’re heading into an area where the climate control needs to better maintain its air quality. Altogether, there are a lot of smarts in this new 4th-gen Continental GT Speed to offer you a most relaxed driving experience. If your pockets are deep enough to afford one, the all-new 4th-generation GT Speed and GTC Speed will begin production and deliveries in Q3 2024.
