2022 Bentley Continental GT Speed Gains Muscle, Fancy Tech

Bentley is introducing the Speed version of the latest-generation Continental GT. Electrified models can wait—this road-going missile continues to rely on the British luxury automaker’s famed twelve-cylinder engine. And it won’t be the last, CEO Adrian Hallmark assures.

We’re of course talking about the twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12. Output has increased from 626 to 650 horsepower, with drivers reaping the benefits at higher revs. Peak torque is unchanged at 664 pound-feet.

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As a result, the new Continental GT raises the bar for performance: 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.6 seconds (one tenth quicker than before) and a top speed of 335 km/h.

Both the engine and eight-speed dual-clutch transmission have been calibrated to suit the car’s driver-focused credentials. This is most noticeable in Sport mode where the twin-turbo W12 remains in the sweet spot of the power band longer by upshifting later or downshifting earlier. Bentley also claims transmission shifts are twice as fast in Sport mode as in the standard W12 model. This combines with a more expressive exhaust note during start-up and downshifts.

More Technology = Better Agility

The new Electronic All-Wheel Steering system enhances the dynamic nature of the Continental GT Speed in Normal and Comfort driving modes. However, this is even more apparent in Sport mode, as the steering combines with Bentley Dynamic Ride and a brand new electronic limited-slip differential for a level of agility unlike any other Bentley road car. The system is significantly more active on the GT Speed than it is on the Flying Spur, where its primary purpose is a shorter turning radius and improved high-speed stability.   

All-wheel drive, torque distribution and traction control have all been recalibrated in all driving modes to provide a noticeable character shift relative to the standard Continental GT. Those who like to go a little sideways on a track should be pleased.

Let’s not forget the newly-engineered Carbon Ceramic brake system (optional), which provides additional bite thanks to ten-piston front callipers and four-piston rear callipers. The carbon ceramic material also saves over 33 kilograms of unsprung weight, though the car still weighs a hefty 2,273 kilograms.

Distinctive Presence

Visually, the 2022 Continental GT Speed stands out with unique 22-inch Speed wheels in bright silver, a dark-finish grille, more sculpted sports sills and discreet “Speed” badging in chrome on the front fender.

Inside, highlights include a unique two-tone layout handcrafted in leather and matching Alcantara, which is also applied to the steering wheel. The exterior badging is matched with a “Speed” icon on the dashboard. What’s more, the centre console can be trimmed in new dark-finish, engine-turned aluminium. 

Pricing for the 2022 Bentley Continental GT Speed has yet to be announced, but expect about a 20-percent hike from the standard W12-powered GT ($285,681 in Canada). Deliveries in North America will begin in the second half of 2021.