A few years back, Bentley embarked on their journey towards electrification. They started by introducing plug-in hybrids, including models like the Bentayga Hybrid. However, these hybrids were more of an addition to the lineup, rather than a replacement for traditional gasoline-powered cars. But now, Bentley is shifting gears and moving quickly forward.
Recently, Bentley unveiled the fourth-generation Continental GT Speed coupe and GTC Speed convertible. These cars are not only the most powerful road cars Bentley has ever produced but are also plug-in hybrids. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for Bentley’s iconic Continental GT and its convertible counterpart, the GTC.
Previously, the Continental GT and GTC Speed were equipped with a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine. That has now been replaced with what Bentley calls the Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain. This new setup features a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 paired with an electric motor integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Together, they generate an impressive 771 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. These figures represent a 19% and 11% increase, respectively, over the previous non-hybrid engine. Bentley estimates this new hybrid setup can propel the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, with a top speed of 208 mph in hybrid mode and 87 mph in electric-only mode.
The car is powered by a 25.9-kilowatt-hour battery pack, which provides up to 50 miles of electric-only range based on EU testing standards (though the range might be less when tested in the United States). The battery is mounted behind the rear axle to help improve weight distribution. Given the car’s substantial size, the added weight of the battery is likely to go unnoticed. An onboard AC charger can deliver up to 11 kilowatts of power, enabling a full recharge in under three hours, although Bentley hasn’t provided details on the availability of DC fast-charging.
Both the all-wheel drive Continental GT Speed and GTC Speed come with advanced features such as four-wheel steering, torque vectoring that can distribute power both front-to-back and side-to-side, an electronic limited-slip rear differential for better traction control, adaptive air suspension, and Bentley’s active anti-roll system. This system uses actuators to keep the car stable during cornering.
The design of the new models isn’t drastically different from previous versions. The most noticeable update is the single headlights, a first for Bentley since 1959, which include horizontal “eyebrow” elements and Matrix LED technology. This technology provides a more natural transition between lit and unlit areas.
Inside, the Bentley Rotating Display remains a key feature, allowing the 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen (which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) to be hidden when not in use. The standard audio system boasts 10 speakers, but there are options for a more immersive experience with either a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen system or an 18-speaker Naim system with bass transducers built into the front seats. The seats themselves offer 20-way power adjustment, automatic climate control, and a posture-adjustment feature.
Bentley plans to start production of both the Continental GT Speed and Continental GTC later this year at their factory in Crewe, England, with deliveries planned shortly thereafter. While Bentley hasn’t disclosed pricing, it’s expected to be in the six-figure range. Additional non-Speed versions of both the GT and GTC are also expected to follow in the future.