Bentley launches its
fastest production model ever - The new Continental GT Speed
Crewe, England -
Bentley is introducing a new performance flagship, its fastest
production model ever, the Continental GT Speed coupe. The new 205 mph
(329 km/h) GT Speed will appeal to driving enthusiasts who place a high
value on outright performance, agile handling, distinctive design and
sporting luxury. Orders for the new GT Speed are being taken now, with
deliveries to commence in October 2012.
At the heart of the new
Continental GT Speed is an up-rated version of the unique Bentley
6-litre, 48-valve, four-cam, twin turbocharged W12 engine. For the new
model, the legendary Bentley W12 develops 625 PS (616 bhp/460 kW) at
6000 rev/min and 800 Nm of torque to deliver thunderous, supercar
performance with effortless overtaking capability. The 0-60 mph sprint
is dispatched in a mere 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2s) and the GT
Speed has a top speed of 205 mph (329 km/h).
The new Speed’s immense power is
transmitted via a close-ratio, ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.
This state-of-the-art transmission delivers quick yet imperceptible gear
changes through intelligent adaptive control software to ensure the
perfect combination of speed and refinement. The new gearbox also makes
a significant contribution to an overall twelve per cent improvement in
fuel economy and CO2 emissions.
Channelling the extreme performance of the
GT Speed is a unique chassis tune that includes uprated steering and
suspension systems and a lowered ride height. The enhanced chassis is
complemented by unique 21-inch Speed wheels, available in two lustrous
finishes, and fitted with 275 35 R21 Pirelli PZero ultra-high
performance tyres. The result is a sportier and more engaging Bentley
driving experience with tauter handling and improved agility.
Commenting on the new GT Speed, Wolfgang
Dürheimer, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive says:
“For nearly a decade, the Bentley
Continental GT has defined high luxury, high performance grand touring
and the unique W12 engine has been so successful that Bentley is now the
world’s largest producer of 12-cylinder engines. The new GT Speed with
its harder-edged, sportier character reaffirms this pinnacle positioning
and continues to broaden the worldwide appeal of the Continental coupe.”
The muscular, elegant sculpted coachwork
of the Continental coupe is subtly enhanced with design touches which
reinforce the sporting character of the new model. Most notable are the
dark-tinted matrix front grille and lower air intakes and the ‘rifled’
finish to the exhaust tailpipes.
The new GT Speed delivers supreme levels
of performance with no compromise in comfort, refinement, craftsmanship
and quality. Using only the finest natural materials, the hand-crafted
cabin of the GT Speed features the Mulliner Driving Specification as
standard as well as a number of signature Speed design cues that combine
contemporary luxury with a distinctly sporting character.
Standard fitment on all Continental
models, the permanent all-wheel drive system, employing a central Torsen
differential, harnesses the prodigious power and torque of the new GT
Speed and ensures huge levels of grip and stability whatever the road or
weather conditions.
Ahead of deliveries this autumn, the GT
Speed makes its international debut at the prestigious Goodwood Festival
of Speed from 28th June until 1st July. Modern-day Bentley Boys Juha
Kankunnen, Guy Smith and Derek Bell will pilot a pre-production GT Speed
up the Goodwood Hill twice a day.
