This is it. The fourth-generation, 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed. It is the most powerful road-legal Bentley ever, featuring a twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain that belts out 1000Nm.
Yep, 1000Nm seems to be the main goal these days, with the new BMW M5 also hitting the magic millennium. The package also produces 575kW (782PS), which is enough to see 0-100km/h done and dusted in just 3.2 seconds. Needless to say, it is the quickest Continental ever.
The ‘Ultra Performance Hybrid’ powertrain combines a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a 140kW electric motor. Despite the epic performance, Bentley claims a modest CO2 emission rating of 29g/km and an electric-only range of 80km.
Bentley describes the new model as offering a dual nature; a car equally comfortable on a racetrack as it is on a leisurely drive. The hybrid system’s electric motor offers silent cruising in full electric mode at speeds up to 140km/h, while the V8 delivers exhilarating performance when called upon.
Around 68 per cent of the components are new compared with the predecessor, with an evolved exterior design that carries through a familiar and traditional silhouette, infused with some interesting new highlights. Most notably, its single headlights – a first since the 1950s. The exterior also boasts a more muscular and refined shape, with a completely redesigned front and rear.
Inside, the new model maintains Bentley’s renowned craftsmanship with new “Wellness seating” with Postural Adjust seat technology, air ionisation, and a suite of extravagant infotainment systems available as an option. There’s also three-dimensional leather textures, fresh quilting themes, and sophisticated finishes such as a new dark chrome.
Underpinning this performance beast is an advanced chassis system. The setup includes two-chamber air springs, dual-valve dampers, Bentley Dynamic Ride (48V active anti-roll control), an e-LSD, and torque vectoring, ensuring optimum body control and ride comfort. For the first time, the Continental GT features a rear-biased 49:51 weight distribution.
Despite the impressive stats and features, Bentley’s latest iteration might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially with its potential for complex hybrid maintenance down the line – keeping in mind this essentially replaces the famous W12. What do you think? Would you prefer the old W12 or is it good that Bentley is at least keeping the V8 alive in some way?
