2021 Bentley Continental GT Speed Coupe and Convertible updated

Even though the name Bentley is synonymous with massive luxobarges that are filled to the brim with wood and cowhide, there always existed a “Speed” model that pushes the performance envelope of the heavy Bentley, making it go as fast as it possibly can. The new generation of the Continental GT Speed gets more tech and power than ever to make it the most capable of all Bentleys to date.

The Bentley Continental GT is already powered by the massive turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine. This thumping W12 is now massaged even further to extract an additional 24 hp, producing a total of 650 hp. This is accompanied by 900 Nm of torque, to extract the best performance possible. The engine is hooked up to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission which is updated for faster shifts. The shifts are claimed to be twice as quick as the outgoing model. With the extra oomph, the new GT Speed Coupe can rush from 0 to 100 kph in just over 3.7 seconds, 0.1 seconds faster than the existing model. The convertible takes 0.1 seconds more than the coupe to hit the mark. The top speed is a brilliant 335 kph, for both models.

It is not just the outright power that the new Continental GT Speed sports. The grand tourer gets all-wheel-steering and an electronic rear differential to improve cornering. There is an active air suspension and Bentley Dynamic Ride, a 48-volt system that helps reduce body roll. To shed this crazy pace, there are optional ceramic brakes. With all these improvements under the skin, the new Bentley Continental GT Speed is claimed to be the most agile Bentley ever.

To visually set the Speed apart from the rest of the GTs, it gets an updated grill, bumper air intakes and side air intakes, all sporting a dark finish. The wheels are 22-inch units and get three different finishes, namely standard bright silver, dark tint or gloss black. The roof of the convertible can be finished in any of seven different shades available. This roof can be opened or closed in 19 seconds.

The interior is also updated in the form of a highly configurable two-tone upholstery in leather and Alcantara, available in a large number of combinations. Other customisation options include the option to chose the wood trim on the dashboard, which can also be swapped for a dark-tinted aluminum finish. The convertible gets neck warmers in the headrests, blowing warm air.

Details regarding the pricing and launch of the new Bentley Continental GT Speed coupe and convertible are not public yet, but expect somewhere close to Dhs 1 million.

For UAE prices and specs, keep track of the Bentley buyer guide.