2024 Bentley Continental GT Speed: redefining the grand tourer
By CARSIFU | 26 June 2024LONDON: Bentley Motors has revealed the fourth generation Continental GT Speed.
A comprehensive exterior and interior redesign with clean modern detailing follow the new design DNA established by the coachbuilt Bentley Bacalar and Batur.
Outstanding performance is brought by an all-new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain with 782 PS and 1,000 Nm, from a 4.0-litre V8 working in tandem with a 190 PS electric motor.
A 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds is the result, with the benefit of 50 miles (81 km) of usable electric-only range (on the EU drive cycle) and a total range of 534 miles (859 km) – creating an everyday supercar.
The performance of the powertrain is matched by a new chassis system, with new two-chamber air springs paired with new dual-valve dampers, along with Bentley Dynamic Ride (48V active anti-roll control), eLSD and torque vectoring.
Incredible body control and the best Continental GT ride comfort to date are the results, supported by a 49:51, rear-biased weight distribution for the first time in the car’s history.
World-leading Bentley interior cabin design, materials, quality, and craftsmanship continue with the introduction of further wellness seat technology, new air ionisation, three-dimensional leather textures, new modern quilting, and technical finishes such as new dark chrome.
A completely new 400-volt electrical architecture enables the most advanced suite of powertrain technology to be offered by a luxury automotive brand today, delivering emissions of 29 g/km of CO2 and an electric range of 50 miles / 81 km on the WLTP drive cycle.
For the first time in the history of the Continental GT, the convertible Continental GTC is being launched concurrently with the coupe - providing ultimate flexibility for customers who appreciate both open topped and closed roof motoring.
Both coupe and convertible models will be crafted entirely by hand at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England. Production and deliveries are due to begin in Q3.
For the new Continental GT Speed, a brand-new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain has been developed.
The new powertrain combines a new 4.0 litre V8 engine capable of producing 600 PS (584 bhp) with a 190 PS (187 bhp) electric motor.
Peak system output is 782 PS (771 bhp) – enough for a 0-60 mph sprint time of just 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h).
System torque is increased by over 11 per cent compared to the outgoing W12-powered Continental GT Speed, from 900 Nm to 1,000Nm.
System power has also increased by 19 per cent, from 659 PS to 782 PS. This makes the new Continental GT Speed the most powerful Bentley ever, beyond the levels of the second-generation Supersports and the Batur.
The 20-way adjustable seats in the Continental GT have long set industry standards in comfort and refinement.
New interior features include the optional Wellness seating with Postural Adjust and Auto Climate to the front seats.
The new Dark Chrome Specification provides a more contemporary aesthetic and gives a more understated character to the cabin.
This applies to door handles, switches, speak grilles and many other areas around the cabin.
Bentley’s bespoke division – Mulliner - will also be offering a collection of unique features enabling further personalisation to the latest model.
A choice of three audio systems is offered in the Continental GT.
The standard system features 10 speakers and 650 Watts, while a Bang & Olufsen 1,500 W, 16-speaker system with illuminated speaker grilles is aimed at lifestyle-oriented customers.
A Naim 2,200 W, 18-speaker system with Active Bass Transducers built into the front seats and eight sound modes is offered for the true audiophile.
Laminated acoustic glass is retained for the windscreen and side windows, resulting in a nine-decibel reduction in exterior noise versus non-acoustic glazing.
The new Continental GT continues to feature the innovative Bentley Rotating Display – the three-sided display featuring a 12.3” high-definition display, three elegant analogue dials, and an unbroken side of handcrafted veneer.
The three sides are selectable at the touch of a button.
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Autos Bentley
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