By Special Contributor Kimatni D. Rawlins
The Swiss Alps didn’t take long to captivate my imagination while exploring mountain roads during the international press drive of the all-new 2025 Continental GT Speed (and GTC Speed cabriolet) in Switzerland.
We began the experience with a 1.5-hour drive from the central city of Zurich to five-star The Chedi Andermatt, perched 4,715 feet above sea level in the Urseren Valley, known for its picturesque beauty. Upon arrival, Bentley displayed all four generations of the Continental GT Speed while comparing the design evolution of each model.
I distinctly recall when the Continental GT first hit the scene. It was a cultural phenomenon that became a universal driveway display for the well heeled. Today, the grand tourer represents top-notch engineering, performance, design, and technology related to performance and interior personalization from Bentley’s traditional bespoke program.
The current GT and GTC Speed – designed simultaneously on the same platform – are plug-in hybrids featuring a 25.9 kWh battery and 140 kW e-motor providing 50 miles of all-electric range. You can use 75% of throttle power in EV drive before the gasoline engine kicks in. The vehicle also starts up in this mode. Additional eco modes include Regeneration, E-boost, and Charge. The hybrid setup is a precursor for the automaker’s Bentley Beyond100 strategy, with the goal of becoming the leader in sustainable luxury mobility. Along with innovation, the core values of the strategy include environmental responsibility, social inclusion, and enduring luxury. Full Bentley EV models are expected in the near future.
The GT Speed is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing a combined 771-horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque for a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.1 seconds. The hybrid electric motor contributes 188-horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque to the total output. Top speed is a blistering 208 mph.
On Swiss roads, the Continental GT Speed handled the tight bends and switchbacks with ease thanks to wide 22” wheels outfitted with Pirelli performance tires, a fully active chassis system, and Bentley Dynamic Ride for superior body control. Added performance items include active all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering, torque vectoring, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters, and performance exhaust. Switch drive modes to Sport mode for increased performance, while Bentley mode represents the best of all modes and will adjust accordingly to your style of engagement. Moreover, Manual mode will hold each gear longer so the GT won’t upshift prematurely unless you are close to redlining.
Whether you select the Continental GT Speed coupe or the GTC Speed convertible, Bentley designed both with a commanding front fascia and confident stance. Design Director Robin Page likens the vehicle’s muscular physique and features to specific animal traits. The Continental’s upright elegance imitates a thoroughbred horse’s stance to represent self-assurance. This vertical confidence has traditionally been a part of the company’s heritage. Significantly, Bentley has implemented single headlamps for the first time in 29 years. Page compares the front end to a tiger’s face with focused eyes and lowered brows, represented by a horizontal matrix LED line running through the lamps. In a resting state, the tiger is relaxed and composed but ready to deliver incredible potency, like a Bentley.
Motivating GT and GTC colors include Candy Red, Jetstream, Magenta, Tourmaline Green, and Bronze.
Step inside the sporty and modern cockpit and witness the latest enhancements. Bentley is famous for bespoke premium materials, and marque devotees consistently come to Bentley to present their unique expressions, mainly through color combos and hand-finished materials. The new model has been upgraded with connected services using Google’s network, air ionization, and wellness seat technology. Quilted doors, three-dimensional leather textures, and perforated bucket seats set the tone for stellar craftsmanship. The icing on the cake comes in the form of the three-way Bentley Rotating Display, which is interchangeable to show either a handcrafted veneer, three analog dials, or the 12.3” navigation screen.
With a starting MSRP of $302,100 for the Continental GT Speed and $332,200 for the GTC Speed, expect deliveries by the end of the 2024.
