New Bentley Continental GT Speed brings 650bhp, dynamic focus

Bentley has reprised the Speed badge for the new top-rung, performance-focused version of the Bentley Continental GT - described as "the most dynamic road car in Bentley's 101-year history". 

With 650bhp and 664lb ft from an uprated version of the firm’s 6.0-litre W12 engine, the most potent version of the luxury coupé can do 0-62mph in just 3.5sec and tops out at 208mph. That makes it roughly as quick in a straight line as a rear-driven Lamborghini Hurácan. 

In Sport mode, the W12 has been retuned to extend the 'power band' by shifting up a gear later, and down earlier - keeping revs towards the top of the range. The faster gear changes are accompanied by a "greater exhaust character" in Sport mode. 

As with its predecessor, the new Speed also promises improved dynamics, bringing a raft of chassis upgrades over the standard car. 

The Speed gains carbon-ceramic brakes and 10-piston front calipers as standard, and uses an uprated version of the larger Flying Spur's all-wheel steering system. At low to medium speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the fronts to reduce the turning circle, while at higher speeds they match the front wheels to improve stability. 

And in a first for Bentley, an electronic differential has been installed at the rear, which is said to improve "lateral capacity", "longitudinal stability" and "on-throttle adjustability" - while enhancing traction in adverse conditions.

Bentley claims the new Continental GT Speed gives "a driver-focused experience previously only seen in Bentley's racing machines" when the electronic stability control system is deactivated. When driving on track, the manufacturer says, drivers can "choose to balance throttle and steering to deliver effortless, progressive yaw angles". 

In line with its performance aspirations, the Speed is marked out from the standard Continental GT by way of its dark front grille, unique side skirts and subtle chrome badging on the front wings. The 22in wheels are unique, too, and buyers can optionally specify jewel-encrusted fuel filler and oil filler caps.