2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed Introduces Hybrid Power and Bold Redesign
Bentley Motors has unveiled the fourth-generation Continental GT Speed, setting a new benchmark in the world of luxury grand tourers. With a striking redesign and an all-new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, the 2025 Continental GT Speed and its convertible sibling, the GTC Speed, represent a significant leap forward from their predecessors.
A New Level of Performance
The heart of the 2025 Continental GT Speed is its revolutionary Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain. Combining a 4.0-liter V8 engine with a 190 PS electric motor, the system delivers a staggering 782 PS (771 bhp) and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque. This marks a substantial increase over the 2022 model's 6.0-liter W12 engine, which produced 659 PS (650 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque.
The hybrid powertrain propels the GT Speed from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds), outpacing the 2022 model's 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. The top speed remains an exhilarating 208 mph (335 km/h), matching its predecessor, but with the added benefit of improved efficiency and a pure electric range of 50 miles (81 km).
Advanced Chassis Dynamics
The 2025 Continental GT Speed features Bentley's new Performance Active Chassis, elevating the driving experience to unprecedented levels. The system includes active all-wheel drive, an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), all-wheel steering, and torque vectoring both front-to-rear and across each axle. These enhancements result in exceptional agility and control, surpassing the handling capabilities of the 2022 model.
A new two-chamber air spring system paired with dual-valve dampers offers improved comfort and body control. The car's weight distribution has been optimized to a rear-biased 49:51 split, a first for the Continental GT, contributing to its dynamic handling characteristics.
Striking Design Evolution
The 2025 Continental GT Speed introduces a bold new design language for Bentley. The most notable change is the adoption of single headlamps, the first in a mainstream Bentley since the 1950s, giving the car a more focused and determined expression. The front has been completely redesigned, featuring a cleaner, more muscular aesthetic that departs from the previous generation's style.
At the rear, the vehicle showcases new taillights with a wider graphic that extends into the trunk lid, along with an integrated aerodynamic form that eliminates the need for a deployable spoiler. The overall design emphasizes the car's power and elegance, reflecting a modern interpretation of Bentley's timeless aesthetic.
Luxurious Interior Enhancements
Inside, the fourth-generation Continental GT Speed offers an even more refined cabin experience. New wellness seat technology provides enhanced comfort, including postural adjustments and automatic climate control. The interior features sculpted quilting, three-dimensional leather textures, and a new dark chrome finish, elevating the sense of luxury beyond that of the 2022 model.
The infotainment system has been upgraded, thanks to a completely new 400-volt electrical architecture. This enables advanced driver assistance features, over-the-air updates, and seamless smartphone integration through the My Bentley App Studio, allowing popular apps to be used directly within the car.
The Continental GTC Speed: Open-Top Excellence
For the first time, Bentley has launched the convertible Continental GTC Speed concurrently with the coupe. The GTC Speed shares the same powerful hybrid powertrain and performance figures, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds). The fabric roof, available in seven colors, can be deployed in 19 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph (48 km/h), offering both open-air freedom and closed-roof comfort.
Setting Records Underground
Demonstrating the capabilities of the new Continental GT Speed, Bentley undertook a unique challenge by setting an unofficial underwater speed record. The car reached its top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h) while traversing the world's deepest tunnel—the Ryfylke Tunnel in Norway, which descends 292 meters below sea level. This feat showcases not only the car's raw performance but also its stability and control in extreme conditions.
A Sustainable Future
The 2025 Continental GT Speed represents Bentley's commitment to sustainability. The Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain significantly reduces CO2 emissions to 29 g/km, a drastic improvement over traditional powertrains. The ability to drive up to 50 miles (81 km) on electric power alone makes it an eco-conscious choice without compromising on performance.
Redefining the Art of Grand Touring
The 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed and GTC Speed mark a bold evolution in the realm of luxury grand tourers. With their advanced hybrid powertrains, cutting-edge chassis technology, and refined interiors, they set new standards for performance, comfort, and efficiency. Bentley has seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, crafting vehicles that honor their heritage while embracing the future of automotive excellence.
-Ed
2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed
