Understated Presentation

The name says it all. Bentley's model names reveal their essence.

The "Continental GT Speed" introduced here is the sportier version (Speed) of the Continental series' coupe body (GT).

So, what distinguishes it from thestandard "Continental GT"

(hereinafter referred to as "normal"), which lacks the "Speed" grade name?

The engine is fundamentally the same 6.0-liter W12 twin-turbo as the normal model. By modifying the ECU (Engine Control Unit) and adopting a dedicated exhaust system, the maximum output has been increased by 50 ps to 625 ps. The gearbox is the same ZF 8-speed automatic as the normal model, but the previous generation Continental GT Speed, announced in 2007, had a 6-speed automatic, so this is a significant improvement.



The suspension tuning is even more meticulous. The spring rates of the air suspension, which has been lowered by 10mm, have been stiffened by 45 percent at the front and 33 percent at the rear. Additionally, the rigidity of the rear anti-roll bar has been increased by 53 percent. The tires have also been upsized from 275/40ZR20 to 275/35ZR21.

And yet...

These cosmetic changes are almost insignificant in the face of the Bentley Continental's overwhelming presence. Therefore, even if a Continental series two-door coupe passes by, most people will remember the surprise of "Wow, a Bentley!" rather than questioning, "Was that a Continental GT Speed just now?"

We noted a similar point inour impression of the Continental GT V8,

and it seems that the British, who value modesty, have once again chosen a subtle presentation.

Slight Differences in Specifications

Even the power increase of 50 ps is less than 10 percent of the original maximum output of nearly 600 ps. Therefore, the difference is far less than that between a normal and an RS model in Audi, and not even comparable to the difference between a normal and an S model.

So, is the "Continental GT Speed" a "model that could be omitted", created for marketing reasons? No, not at all. BecauseBentley's fastest-ever top speed of 330 km/hthis latest model of the Continental GT, which marks a top speed of 330 km/h, creates a unique world that is significantly different from both the normal model and the "Continental GT V8."

A Car for Higher Speeds

We start driving the Continental GT Speed around town. The first thing you notice is the solid, well-damped ride. However, you wouldn't describe it as "stiff" because no harshness from the 21-inch tires is transmitted. The impact from the road is cleanly smoothed out, leaving no unpleasant impression.

On the other hand, the handling response is definitely improved. Especially when you switch the four-stage adjustable air suspension to the firmest "Sport" setting, the nose sharply turns in response to steering inputs. It's clear that the suspension has been revised to handle higher speeds than the normal model.

Sticking to the Road

The initial acceleration is also quite sharp. It's hard to believe that the difference in maximum output is only 50 ps, as the Continental GT Speed accelerates with impressive vigor. This is likely because the engine power builds up more sharply from the initial throttle input compared to the normal model.

Furthermore, when you press the throttle harder, the exhaust sound intensifies, stimulating the driver's hearing. This is probably due to the bypass valve in the exhaust system, a common feature in recent European high-performance cars. However, its effect is surprisingly strong, to the point where one might think, "A refined Bentley doesn't need to go this far."



On the highway, the benefits of the stiffened suspension are clearly noticeable. The vertical movement is significantly less than in the normal model, giving the impression of hugging the road. The aerodynamic improvements, which generate 125 kg of downforce at maximum speed, may also contribute to this stability.

The Character of the Continental GT Family

The taste of the "Continental GT Speed" is subtly different from the "Continental GT V8" for enjoying agile handling on mountain roads, even though both are sporty. The "Continental GT Speed" is likely best suited for situations like endlessly cruising at high speeds on the highway.


Meanwhile, the normal "Continental GT" can be described as a luxurious personal coupe that offers a more relaxed driving experience while retaining the potential of a grand tourer.

As we felt when test-driving the "Continental GT V8," Bentley's models, despite having similar exteriors and basic components, have distinct tuning. In other words, "Continental" refers to a family of hardware, but each model forms a unique world.

Therefore, don't be misled by appearances. When purchasing, we encourage you to take a thorough test drive and find the Continental that perfectly suits you.

Bentley Continental GT Speed
Body Dimensions｜Overall Length 4,806 × Overall Width 1,944 × Overall Height 1,394 mm
Wheelbase｜2,746 mm
Tread Front/Rear｜1,667 / 1,663 mm
Minimum Turning Radius｜11.3 meters
Trunk Capacity (VDA)｜358 Liters
Weight｜2,320 kg
Engine｜5,998cc W12 DOHC Twin-Turbo 48-Valve
Max. Output｜460 kW (625 ps) / 6,000 rpm
Max. Torque｜800 Nm / 2,000 rpm
Transmission｜8-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain｜4WD
Front Suspension｜4-Link Double Wishbone, Computer-Controlled Self-Levelling Air Suspension
Rear Suspension｜Trapezoidal Multi-Link, Computer-Controlled Self-Levelling Air Suspension with Anti-Roll Bar
Tires｜275/35ZR21
Front Brakes｜405mm Ventilated Discs (420mm Cross-Drilled Carbon Silicon Carbide Optional)
Rear Brakes｜335mm Ventilated Discs (356mm Cross-Drilled Carbon Silicon Carbide Optional)
Top Speed｜330 km/h
0-100km/h Acceleration｜4.2 Seconds
Fuel Economy (EU Cycle, Combined)｜14.5 L/100km
CO2 Emissions｜338 g/km
Fuel Tank Capacity｜90 L
Price｜¥24,900,000