The new GT promises improved performance, Comfort, and efficiency, but is the plug-in hybrid Continental more than just the by-product of tightening emissions regulations?
The 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed Review:
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"As I began my charge up the first mountain pass, progressively leaning more on its accelerator, its V8 joined the conversation. Its presence was immediately felt with a delightfully burbly rolling cold start accented by off-throttle crackles."
- "Approach a bend, and its standard carbon-ceramic brakes will effortlessly scrub off the pace while its dual-clutch automatic instantly works its way down its eight speeds. Turn in, and the Continental’s front end follows now that a hefty W12 doesn’t urge it to continue pushing forward."
- "The coupe tips the scales at 5,421 pounds or about 400 lb more than its W12-powered predecessor, while the GTC pushes that figure to 5,811 lb. These are both substantial machines and despite their suite of active suspension systems masking their heft, you’ll feel it when stepping out of one and in the other."
- "Of the two, the Bentley Continental GT Speed will be the one for those looking for a sportscar-like experience. Its relative lightness enables its 0-60 time of 3.1 seconds, but more importantly, its agility in the bends. If the GTC was eager to change direction, the GT is quicker still, keen to confidently tackle a mountain road on command. "
- "As I turned back towards Andermatt, impressed with how capable and quick the Bentley Continental GT Speed has become, I couldn’t help but notice that I wasn’t missing the now departed W12. Although I’ve covered, at this point, thousands of miles in cars powered by it, this plug-in hybrid V8 represents a step forward in seemingly every aspect. It generates more power, is more responsive, and, thanks to a vocal exhaust system, sounds better, too. "
- "Stricter emissions regulations may have forced Bentley to change, ending the production of its iconic 6.0-liter W12, but the Continental enters its plug-in hybrid era from a position of strength.
2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed Gallery:
The 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed Overview:
The 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed marks a bold evolution for Bentley, ushering in its plug-in hybrid era while maintaining the grand touring legacy it's famous for. Now in its fourth generation, the Continental GT Speed takes inspiration from Bentley's limited-edition models like the Bacalar and Batur, incorporating advanced design elements and cutting-edge technology. This model is the first Bentley to combine a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 771 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque.
This hybrid powertrain not only increases performance but also sets the stage for future models like the Flying Spur Speed and Lamborghini Urus SE. With its 25.9-kilowatt-hour battery, the GT Speed can travel up to 50 miles on electric power alone, making it perfect for emissions-sensitive urban areas, while also boasting a top speed of 87 mph in electric mode.
Bentley's recent coachbuilding projects influence the GT Speed's updated design, featuring sharper, sportier aesthetics with wider taillights and a single-lens headlight design. Despite these modern touches, the GT Speed retains its grand tourer roots, balancing luxury, power, and practicality.
On the road, the Continental GT Speed feels remarkably agile for its size, benefiting from an updated suspension system, active anti-roll bars, and near-perfect weight distribution. Whether you're navigating mountain passes or cruising along highways, the GT Speed offers both thrilling performance and refined comfort.
Inside, the cabin mirrors the luxury of previous generations, with an option for darkened trim, a rotating display, and physical controls for an engaging driving experience. The GT Speed's advanced suspension ensures that it remains athletic in Sport mode and supremely comfortable on long journeys, making it one of the most versatile grand tourers on the market.
With a starting price of $302,100 for the GT Speed and $332,200 for the convertible GTC, Bentley's latest offering demonstrates that the move towards hybridization can enhance performance without compromising on luxury or tradition. While the iconic W12 engine may be a thing of the past, the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed proves that the future is even more exciting.
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