Bentley Continental GT Speed (2024 - )

In an age where many people struggle to afford their rent, let alone a mortgage, it almost seems unkind to review a car that costs over £200,000, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.

But the truth is, the rich are getting richer, and the poor are getting poorer. Wealth inequality has generally widened, and therefore, there are people with the kind of disposable income to spend on a Bentley. And, why not? There's no point being jealous - if you've worked like a dog and you want to pull the trigger on the dream car you've always wanted, then go for it. 

I consider myself very fortunate to have driven the latest Continental GT Speed, so keep reading to see what the coupe's like. After all, you may be in a position to buy one, or you may be curious about it, allowing you to aspire to own one. 

The new Continental GT Speed carries forward key design elements from Bentley's heritage, dating back to the R-Type Continental of 1952.

This fourth generation showcases a muscular yet poised profile, reminiscent of a resting tiger, showcasing power beneath the surface. Its front, inspired by a thoroughbred horse, reinforces the grandeur of this luxury grand tourer, while the ‘endless bonnet’ evokes high-performance engineering.

The overall design is streamlined with fewer surface interruptions for a more refined look. A significant update is the introduction of single front headlamps, a first for Bentley since the S2 of 1959. The headlamps now feature a horizontal ‘eyebrow’ and an illuminated lower pattern, with 120 digitally controlled matrix LEDs that enhance visibility and create a natural driving experience.

The rear design has also been revamped, with a new bumper, taillights, and boot lid that incorporates aerodynamic elements for improved downforce without a deployable spoiler. The taillights exhibit a striking diamond pattern that creates a dramatic effect when illuminated.
The 22” wheels feature a bold design inspired by the tiger, with a claw-like grip on the road. They are available in dark tint with polished accents, gloss black, or silver finishes.

Technology-wise, the Bentley features the latest electrical architecture, significantly enhancing infotainment and driver assistance technologies, making them highly competitive in the luxury segment.
The environment display in the driver's instrument panel allows for semi-assisted driving, providing feedback on the car's interactions with other vehicles. It also includes Intelligent Park Assist.
Beyond driving, the upgraded air conditioning system enhances cabin comfort with air ionisers, a new particulate filter, and real-time air quality displays. These features create a more personalised and enjoyable journey, even adjusting to improve air quality in scenarios like entering a tunnel. 
Key enhancements also include wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, as well as over-the-air map updates. 
Furthermore, audiophiles will appreciate the choice of three impressive audio systems within the Continental GT. The standard setup involves ten speakers banging out 650 Watts, while the Bang & Olufsen system blows your ears with 1,500 Watts and 16 speakers with illuminated grilles. For the ultimate sound experience, though, a Naim unit provides a staggering 2,200 Watts through 18 speakers, complete with Active Bass Transducers embedded in the seats and eight immersive sound modes. 
Speaking of sound, the introduction of laminated acoustic glass in the windscreen and side windows ensures a notably quieter cabin environment, reducing outside noise by nine decibels compared with conventional glazing.

As you take the wheel of the new Continental GT Speed, you're immediately captivated by its cutting-edge Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain. The 4.0-litre V8 lump produces 600PS in conjunction with a 190PS electric motor, resulting in a remarkable peak output of 782 horses. 

You feel the thrill and hear the growl as you shoot from zero to 60mph in just 3.1 seconds. And if you keep going without any care for the law, or you're somewhere where the speed limit doesn't matter, then you can reach a top speed of 208mph. It is nothing short of exhilarating – especially for a car weighing over two tonnes - and your licence – in the UK at any rate – will soon be gone if you ever attempt that madness on a public road.
You appreciate the improvement in torque, which has been hiked by more than 11% compared with the previous W12 version, now reaching a peak of 1000Nm. The poke has risen by 19%, ensuring you're driving the most potent Bentley ever made. 
The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and electronic limited-slip differential provide exceptional traction and power delivery in all conditions. I drove it in rain and shine – and can absolutely attest to the grip, especially in biblical weather!
What stands out is the seamless integration of the V8 mill and electric motor. The 25.9 kWh battery is cleverly mounted behind the rear axle, optimising weight distribution.
With various driving modes at your disposal - pure electric, electric boost, and a charge mode - you can tailor your experience on the road. Whether you're enjoying silent, effortless acceleration in electric mode at speeds of up to 87mph (which again, you won't be on UK roads, will you?) or relishing the raw power of the V8, you always feel in control. 
What's more, the new Continental GT Speed features an advanced Bentley Performance Active Chassis, which includes Active All-Wheel Drive, all-wheel steering, and torque vectoring. It also comes with the Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti-roll system and an updated ESC control software. A dual-valve damper system and dual-chamber air springs provide improved tuning, offering an exceptional blend of performance, handling, and comfort.
You can feel it’s a heavy car, but, as mentioned, with a near-perfect weight distribution of 49:51, thanks to where the hybrid battery is housed, the Bentley maintains stability and accommodates a wide range of driving styles. 

But what’s the point in all the power and might if you can’t stop on a sixpence? Well, don’t fret because the braking system retains Bentley's familiar setup, utilising ten-piston front callipers and four-piston rear callipers. This car’s anchors dig in so quickly, you can feel your insides still moving seconds after you've come to a halt.

The Continental GT Speed showcases an exquisitely crafted interior – classy and traditional but clearly inspired by contemporary fashion trends. The seats and doors boast sculptured quilting and perforations, while embroidery creates an atmosphere that envelops you like a tailored cocoon.
The Continental GT's 20-way adjustable seats have set a benchmark in the industry. New innovations, such as the optional Wellness seating featuring Postural Adjust and Auto Climate functions, are designed to reduce fatigue and elevate relaxation to an entirely new level.
The recently introduced Dark Chrome Specification adds a subtle, contemporary flair to the cabin, enhancing the understated elegance of door handles, switches, and speaker grilles throughout the interior. 
An innovative feature of the new Continental GT is the Bentley Rotating Display, a cutting-edge three-sided screen that seamlessly transitions from a 12.3" high-definition display to three tasteful analogue dials, all framed by handcrafted veneer. The choice among these is just a button press away.
Within the cabin, mood lighting beautifully highlights the sculptural design of the seats and doors, offering a choice of different colours to create the perfect ambience for any occasion.
In terms of space and practicality, the Continental GT Speed offers a truly luxurious experience for the front seat occupants. The Bentley provides a generous amount of space, but rear space is more limited, typical of a coupe. 
While it's more practical than some two-door coupes, those over six feet tall sitting behind a lofty driver, for instance, might find rear legroom a bit tight - and your hair may well brush the headliner. 
Oh – and the boot space is only 260 litres, which is only five litres more than a Kia Picanto offers! 

The Bentley's completely revamped 400-volt electrical system showcases the most sophisticated array of powertrain technology currently available from a luxury car manufacturer. This innovative architecture achieves CO2 emissions of just 29g/km and offers an electric range of 50 miles based on the WLTP driving cycle. 
The battery can be recharged in two and a half hours, due to advancements in the charger and battery technology, which features a peak charging power of 11kW. Furthermore, Bentley claims that the GT Speed coupe can achieve an impressive 217mpg, maintaining those low emissions figures. 
With an overall driving range of 534 miles, it's theoretically possible to travel from Brighton all the way to the far northwest of Scotland without needing to refuel or recharge.
If you can afford this car, then the road tax fee for this vehicle will be like water off a duck's back to you. But it's worth noting that you'll fork out a fair bit, as the Continental GT Speed's list price well exceeds £40,000, which means the Expensive Car Supplement will apply. Specifically, this results in an extra charge of £425 per year from years two to six, in addition to the standard £195 road tax. The first year's cost is £110. The supplement, commonly known as the "luxury car tax," is currently under review, but the government has not yet announced any changes to the £40,000 threshold.
 

The Continental GT Speed is a luxurious, potent, and gorgeously designed two-door coupe that, in many ways, occupies a league of its own.

Although it may not be the most practical car available, this shortcoming is minor and largely inconsequential in the context of such a splendid example of automotive craftsmanship.
If you're after a luxury grand tourer, the GT Speed is utterly worthy of consideration, offering the agility of a sports car while maintaining fabulously refined levels of comfort. 
This Bentley is a car that meets and surpasses expectations - and the cherry on top is its resonant growl, which is simply intoxicating when you put your foot down.