When it comes to the new-generation Continental GT, Bentley is bringing out the big guns first.
The local importer pulled the covers off the new Continental GT Speed in Johannesburg recently, as this will be the first version of the new model series to grace local shores.
The order books are now open, with Bentley South Africa announcing a starting price of R6,534,000 for the Coupe and R7,083,000 for the GTC open-top variant.
The ‘regular’ Continental GT models are expected to make landfall towards the end of the third quarter of 2025, the importer said.
So what can buyers expect from the new flagship model?
A great deal of speed, as its name implies. The new Conti GT Speed is officially the fastest road-going Bentley ever created.
It features an all-new “Ultra Performance Hybrid” drivetrain, that pairs a 4.0-litre V8 engine with an electric motor for system outputs of 575kW and 1,000Nm, meaning it has 19% more power and 11% more torque than the previous version.
That, they say, is enough to get Crewe’s missile from standstill to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 335km/h.
Power goes to all four wheels through an eight-speed dual clutch gearbox and electronic limited slip differential.
With this being a plug-in hybrid, a 25.9 kWh battery is mounted behind the rear axle to allow an all-electric range of up to 81km.
The battery’s positioning helps the vehicle to achieve a practically perfect, slightly rear-biased weight distribution of 49:51.
Speaking of balance and handling the Performance Active Chassis includes torque vectoring front to rear as well as across the axles, while a new Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti roll system is in place to minimise body roll.
Furthermore, the vehicle is fitted with new dual valve dampers and dual chamber air springs, which enables more sophisticated tuning options.
Inside, buyers can expect luxurious sculpted quilting for the seats and doors as well as 20-way adjustable seats and a choice of three audio systems, headlined by an 18-speaker, 2,200W Naim system with Active Bass Transducers built into the front seats.
The cockpit area features a Bentley Rotating Display, allowing occupants to choose between a 12.3-inch high-definition display, three analogue dials or a pure handcrafted veneer surface.
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