The New Bentley Continental GT Speed

The new Bentley Continental GT Speed may come with a hefty price tag, but it also brings every dollar's worth to the table. Whether you're a car enthusiast or not, the new Bentley model will catch anyone's attention, letting everyone know that there's nothing to hide with the new, sports-inspired design.

A closer look at Bentley's powerful new car in South Africa 

In June of this year, the fourth-generation Bentley Continental GT Speed was finally unveiled in South Africa, bringing with it a few surprises, such as a new hybrid V8 powertrain. Bentley also marked the special occasion with a limited First Edition.

Everything grand about the new Bentley Continental GT

The coupé finish

The new model is designed to take elite driving to the next level. When viewed from the outside, there’s no mistaking Bentley’s signature styling—albeit with a twist or two. The redesigned headlamps, inspired by tiger-like characteristics, highlight Bentley’s focus on agility and readiness to "pounce.” Instead of traditional headlamp designs, an oval headlight perfectly captures the spirit of the new look.

As well as the front, the rear has undergone a subtle change. The ‘slashed oval’ tail lights now feature smoke-effect lenses, adding a refined touch. This attention to detail is evident in the dark exterior accents surrounding the model. The body-coloured Styling Specification and sports side sills further enhance the car’s sleek, low-profile stance, creating a broader, more athletic look. From the striking Speed wheels and redesigned grille at the front to the sporty exhaust finisher at the rear, this GT is truly distinctive and commands attention on the road.

Bentley’s Colour Specification is included as standard, offering an extensive palette of hide and carpet colours. Choosing the Blackline Specification transforms the exterior details into sleek black accents. Pairing this with the Dark Chrome Interior Specification enhances the cabin with a sophisticated blend of dark-tint chrome and matte black finishes, elevating its luxurious atmosphere even further.

 Cabin interior and technology

The driver and passenger seats feature Postural Adjust, which includes air pockets beneath the seat's upholstery. These are designed to provide a subtle, imperceptible massage, perfect for relieving stiffness during long drives. The seats also come equipped with Auto Climate, which uses sensors to automatically regulate heat and moisture, keeping you comfortable at all times.

In addition to offering wireless charging capabilities and seamless access to Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™, the car's technological suite includes a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, enabling instant connectivity to any radio station. Bentley's signature audio system is included as standard, but upgrades are available. The Bang & Olufsen for Bentley system features 16 channels, while the 20-channel Naim option provides unparalleled sound quality for an exceptional in-car audio experience.

The My Bentley App Studio provides a range of local apps, such as navigation, gaming, and entertainment, which can be downloaded directly to the car’s infotainment system. You can also choose to run a third-party app through the system instead of your phone. This includes access to features like fuel consumption or charge levels—a highly useful tool when utilizing navigation apps. For convenience, the app’s interface can be displayed on the driver’s instrumentation panel, offering an alternative to the central touchscreen.

Enhanced safety

For urban driving and enhanced safety, the Bentley model comes equipped with an array of driver assistance features, including Bentley’s City Specification. This package provides Traffic Sign Recognition, Park Assist, a Top View Camera, Auto-Dimming Mirrors, and Hands-Free Boot Opening.

When venturing beyond the city, Bentley’s Touring Specification tool ensures an elevated driving experience on your favourite stretches of open road. This feature set includes a Head-Up Display, a Night Vision Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Assist, combining innovation and practicality for maximum convenience and safety. 

Ultra hybrid performance 

Starting with the engine, the new 4.0 V8 TFSI is paired with a 140 kW electric motor and an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Combined, the electric and petrol powertrain delivers an impressive 575 kW and 1000 Nm of torque.

The car boasts a maximum speed of 335 km/h, with an acceleration time of just 3.2 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. With the electric motor alone, the model reaches a top speed of up to 140 km/h.

To personalise or not to personalise?

With Mulliner's extended range, satin, and pearlescent finishes, there are more than 80 options for personalising the Continental GT Speed. Standard exterior choices include seven colours, but there are also extended options. A wide range of veneers, such as high-gloss woods, open-pore finishes, and technical materials like carbon fibre, are available for the interior, which includes 15 primary hide colours and 11 secondary hide colours. Additional customisation options, such as Piano Black or bespoke features crafted by Mulliner, enable buyers to create a truly unique vehicle tailored to their preferences.

Bentley’s limited GT Speed First Edition

A First Edition Continental GT Speed was created exclusively by Bentley and their design team, in celebration of the new Continental GT Speeds debut. This unique model combines some of the most sought-after features, including limited First Edition details such as exclusive badging on the body, treadplates, and Animated Welcome Lamps by Mulliner.

The interior features embroidered First Edition emblems on the seats, with several optional features included as standard. These are offered in the Front Seat Comfort Specification, which boasts Postural Adjust and Seat Auto Climate, as well as Bentley's premium Rotating Display to complete the package.

Summary

The price tag is incredibly exclusive, catering to a niche market with an appreciation for driving, all for the starting price of R7,500,000. With the authentic Bentley promise and the impressive specs, it’s clear why this car is a perfect fit for Grand Touring enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of driving a powerful car. (Prices correct at time of publication.)