When I spent four days with the Bentley Continental GT Speed a couple of years ago, I can’t remember ever complaining that it was underpowered. If the good folks from Crewe disagree with me, however, who am I to argue?
Engineers at Bentley have massaged the Continental’s massive 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine so it now produces 633 horsepower and 15 ft.-lbs. of extra torque, bringing its total to 620 ft.-lbs. Thanks to adjusting the turbo’s boost control, peak torque is delivered from 2,000-5,000 rpm so now the GT Speed sprints from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds.
Also, in what appears to be an answer to the recently released Rolls-Royce Black Badge line, Bentley announced the Continental GT Speed Black Edition to, as Paul Jones Product Line Director for Continental GT says, “meet demand from customers for a model in the Continental line that offers both increased sporting capabilities and instantly recognizable styling cues.”
This new edition features a high gloss black finish to the exterior trim, including the window openings and lamp bezels. All-black 21” five-spoke directional wheels are bolted over red or black powder coated brake calipers. In addition, the front splitter, side skirts and rear diffuser are available in four different colors: Hallmark, Beluga, St James’ Red and a new shade, Cyber Yellow. Customers can also color-match the door mirrors as a final exterior accent.
Inside, the mix of dark tones and vivid highlights continues. Carbon fiber inserts replace wood in the fascia, centre and roof consoles to create a dark rich feel, while a the Black Edition seats and centre console are bordered by contrasting leather. Corresponding contrast stitching accentuates the diamond quilting of the doors and the Mulliner GT Design seats.
The new GT Speed and GT Speed Black Edition models are available for order now, with customer deliveries this summer.