As predicted, Bentley released the new Bentley Continental GT Speed this morning, due to be displayed for the first time at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next week. It promises to be Bentley’s fastest production model ever with uprated performance, handling and interior refinements. Orders are being taken now with deliveries expected to start in October 2012.
The Continental GT Speed gets the Bentley 6-liter, 48-valve, four-cam, twin turbocharged W12 engine. Power is lifted to 625hp produced at 6,000rev/min and 800Nm of torque for the Continental GT Speed. This means that the new flagship model is capable of a 329km/h top speed together with a 4.2s 0-100km/h sprint time. Permanent all-wheel drive and a Torsen differential come as standard.
The Continental GT Speed gets a new, close-ratio, ZF eight-speed automatic transmission with intelligent adaptive control software for smoother changes and a twelve percent increase in economy and CO2 emissions. Bentley also uprated the steering and suspension systems together with a lowered ride height. Complementing the new set up is a unique set of 21 inch Speed wheels with two finishes and 275/35 R21 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tyres.
Noticeable changes to the design of the Bentley Continental GT Speed include the dark-tinted matrix front grille and lower air intakes and the ‘rifled’ finish to the exhaust tailpipes. Inside, Mulliner Driving Specification comes as standard as well as a number of signature Speed design cues that combine contemporary luxury with a distinctly sporting character.
The Speed has now become a Bentley Continental GT standard model after the name was revived for the previous generation Continental. It was first used in 1923 on a more potent version of W.O. Bentley’s 3-liter ‘Speed Model’. Essentially, the new Bentley Continental GT Speed attempts to offer the same refinements, more focus and greater power.
We will be at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next week to bring you the first live coverage of the Bentley Continental GT Speed.
