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The latest model of the Bentley Continental Speed has made a significant upgrade by replacing its W12 engine with a V8 plug-in hybrid. This change has resulted in the most powerful Bentley ever produced, boasting an output of 575 kW (782 PS) and an impressive 1,000 Nm of torque.
Bentley’s design ethos often blends modern elements with historical inspiration. While the model names typically pay homage to the brand’s prestigious legacy, the new Continental takes cues from the classic Bentley S2, which once had its own sportier Continental variant. The distinctive dual headlamps of the S2 have notably influenced the updated face of the fourth-generation Bentley Continental.
However, the modern Continental’s front design starkly contrasts with the ornate charm of its predecessors. Its aggressive stance is accentuated by pointed “eyelids” over the headlights, offering a more assertive and dynamic look. Remarkably, 68% of the components in this fourth-generation Continental are entirely new compared to its predecessor. The designers have emphasized a sportier appearance further highlighted by sleek rear lights. If the rear design reminds you of an Alpine A110, you’re not mistaken. To back up this assertive styling, Bentley has utilized the powertrain from the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, a transition made easier by the shared technology between the two brands.
Crewe engineers have worked diligently to conceal the familial resemblance, achieving a fair degree of success. However, it was essential for the Continental GT Speed to maintain a balance of power—too much would not sit well with Porsche, and too little would not suit Bentley’s reputation. Priced at €293,200, the name “Speed” carries weight. At the heart of this powerhouse is a 4.0-litre V8 engine with a 441 kW (600 PS) output, coupled with an electric motor that adds 140 kW (190 PS). Together, they make this plug-in hybrid the mightiest Bentley to date, delivering a combined 575 kW (782 PS) and a massive 1,000 Nm of torque.
This impressive power aligns well with the Continental’s intended purpose as a luxurious grand tourer, rather than a sporty sedan designed for racing. In terms of electric range, Bentley claims an admirable 81 kilometers, comparable to the Panamera. Although the Bentley is 94 kilograms heavier than the Porsche, this difference is felt in the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, where it takes 3.2 seconds, 0.3 seconds slower than the Panamera. However, the Bentley excels in top-speed performance, reaching an impressive 335 km/h, which is 10 km/h faster than the Panamera.
Flying down a straightaway isn’t the primary focus of a Bentley; it’s about the quintessential luxury experience. Instead of the high-revving experience typical of hot hatches, the Continental offers a smooth, effortless ride. While some purists may miss the W12 engine, the new V8 compensates for any initial lag thanks to the electric motor. The twin-scroll turbocharged V8 operates at a higher injection pressure of 350 bar, significantly more than its predecessor. The Continental’s true strengths lie in its cruising capabilities; it feels stable and confident rather than overly anxious or erratic.
Nevertheless, the Bentley Continental is not a cumbersome vehicle when it comes to handling corners. With a weight distribution slightly favoring the rear at 49:51, all-wheel drive, rear-axle steering, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, and torque vectoring, the Continental navigates turns expertly. The battery, with a 25.9 kWh capacity, enhances weight distribution, contributing to a surprisingly cooperative front end during cornering.
While the vehicle’s weight is somewhat apparent, there’s a limit to how much even Bentley’s engineers can camouflage it. However, the suspension, featuring twin-valve dampers and a 48-volt active roll stabilization system, performs exceptionally well, even if the comfort mode can be overly soft, making the car feel a bit floaty over extended bumps.
However, this isn’t necessarily a drawback, as Bentley owners typically prefer a softer ride. Interestingly, the Continental does not feature the hydraulic suspension system found in the Panamera, which would have increased comfort levels. Project manager Chris Cole notes, “When we designed the suspension in 2019, the hydraulic system wasn’t fully developed, but we were confident we could fine-tune the twin-valve dampers effectively.”
We appreciate the honesty in the design and thoroughly enjoy the opulent interior. Our test vehicle showcases elegant wood finishes, although a sleek black chrome option is also available. The powerful 2,200-watt Naim sound system with 18 speakers transforms the Continental’s cabin into a concert-like environment. While the interior may appear familiar at first glance, significant updates have been made in terms of technology. The Continental is equipped with a completely new electronic architecture that introduces a variety of advanced driver assistance features. Notably, the vehicle can now park itself, and the climate control system is intelligently linked to navigation, adjusting air quality as needed, such as when passing through a tunnel. Looking ahead, Bentley plans to introduce additional innovations, allowing the car to catch the “green wave” of traffic lights in major cities across Europe and the U.S.
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