Fourth-Generation Bentley Continental GT Speed Steals the Show at Goodwood Festival of Speed
In a remarkable showcase that captivated automotive enthusiasts, the fourth-generation Bentley Continental GT Speed made its much-anticipated global public debut today at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed. Displayed in both coupe and convertible iterations, this new model aligns with this year’s festival theme: "Horseless to Hybrid – Revolutions in Power".
Unprecedented Power and Efficiency
Marking its place as the most powerful street-legal Bentley ever, the new Continental GT Speed is equipped with an advanced Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain. This powerhouse delivers an astonishing 782 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque, surpassing the performance of its predecessor, the W12, while achieving a significant reduction in CO2 emissions to just 29 g/km*.
Cutting-Edge Chassis and Dynamics
The new Continental GT Speed features an all-new chassis system designed for unparalleled performance. Key highlights include:
- Two-Chamber Air Springs: Paired with new dual-valve dampers to refine ride quality and body control.
- Bentley Dynamic Ride: A 48V active anti-roll control system that enhances stability.
- eLSD and Torque Vectoring: Ensuring optimal grip and precise handling.
For the first time in its lineage, the car boasts a 49:51 rear-biased weight distribution, which significantly improves its agility and responsiveness.
A Design Evolution
The exterior design of the new Continental GT Speed heralds a significant evolution for Bentley. This redesign includes the biggest face revision since the model’s inception 20 years ago and is notably the first mainstream Bentley model to feature single headlamps since the 1950s.
Luxurious Interior Innovations
Inside, Bentley continues to set the benchmark for luxury and craftsmanship. The interior design upgrades include:
- Wellness Seat Technology: Enhanced comfort and support for long journeys.
- Air Ionization: Improving air quality within the cabin.
- Three-Dimensional Leather Textures: Adding a modern touch to classic luxury.
- Advanced Quilting and Dark Chrome Finishes: Highlighting the meticulous attention to detail.
Unique Attractions
In addition to the hill climb showcases, Bentley introduced an interesting display near the Kinrara Enclosure to commemorate an unconventional speed record. The ‘FOShtank’ features a unique underwater exhibit, humorously celebrating what is believed to be the fastest a car has ever traveled through a tunnel—208 mph or 335 km/h. This display uses an adapted version of Bentley’s glass ‘Toy Box’ units from its Dream Factory campus in Crewe, England, converted into a custom-built fish tank.
Conclusion
The debut of the fourth-generation Bentley Continental GT Speed at Goodwood signals a bold step forward for the brand. Combining groundbreaking performance with innovative design and luxurious comfort, it redefines what a grand tourer can achieve.
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William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi
