Bentley’s new Bentayga Speed and Continental GT Speed Convertible were both born to thrill. With the speed potential from their W-12 engines, a memorable driving experience is only the half of it.
Bentley Bentayga Speed in Moroccan Blue with 22-inch Speed wheels; photo courtesy of Bentley Motors
But how fast can it go? This seems to always be the question of car collectors, both well read and otherwise, because at the end of the day, we want speed. Bentley Motors’ (bentelymotors.com) newest versions of its Bentayga and Continental GT one-up that notion, marrying speed, design and luxury—leading the pack, rather than just standing out. Bentley has taken the breathtaking design of its classic range and edited it for a new commanding aesthetic, adding in Speed detailing to the design to enhance the exhilarating potential of both of these models’ W-12 engines.
Interior cabin of the Bentayga with contrast stitching; photo courtesy of Bentley Motors
For the Bentayga Speed, the typical sports driving mode has been reimagined, thanks to two twin-scroll turbochargers that ensure that with speed will also come control and comfort, allowing for optimal responsiveness and balancing power, transmission and suspension. Go down back roads and through countrysides with the Bentayga, which allows for minimized body roll when traveling at speed around sweeping curves and bends, thanks to the placement of the electric motors on the front and rear axles. And should you need to pump the brakes, rest easy knowing the carbon ceramic brakes are the most powerful ever fitted for a Bentley. Inside, the plush and unique approach to design is complemented by the option to customize with an exclusive color split option, only available on the Bentayga Speed: Think tactil Alcantara elements, unique colors and contrast stitching that translate to ultimate craftsmanship.
Switching gears (pun intended) to the Bentley’s Continental GT Speed Convertible is much like fitting into an old pair of jeans. Its athletic and open-air body style and aggressive W-12 engine are set to thrill and always put a smile on your face no matter the weather. As the most powerful luxury grand tourer of the Continental GT range, its max speed of 208 mph and enhanced stability thanks to innovative technologies—such as electronic all-wheel steering, torque vectoring by Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) and the Bentley Dynamic Ride electric active roll control system—maxes out on driver experience. Using the same 650 brake horsepower as the Bentayga, feel strongly in the vehicle’s ability to take thrilling speeds down to a standstill and hug rolling curves like a champ. Of course, substance is nothing without style, and the Continental GT fits that bill and then some. Its dark-hued grille complements the bold Speed 22-inch wheels, available in silver-painted, black-painted or dark tint finish. When the top isn’t down, crown your car with a selection of hood colors including black, dark gray metallic, Claret, Tweed and more. As for the inside, expect a cabin with an almost panoramic view, so whether your top is down or shielding you from the elements, you are ensured a completely immersive drive.
Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible in Peacock with 22-inch Speed wheel; photo courtesy of Bentley Motors
BENTAYGA SPEED
Max Speed: 190 mph
0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds
Max Power: 626 bhp
Max Torque: 900 nm
CONTINENTAL GT SPEED CONVERTIBLE
Max Speed: 208 mph
0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
Max Power: 650 bhp
Max Torque: 900 nm
“THE CONTINENTAL GT SPEED CONVERTIBLE IS STUNNING WHEN THE TOP IS DOWN, PLUS IT OFFERS A GREAT DRIVING EXPERIENCE FOR WEEKEND TRIPS.” –GREG MABRY, GENERAL MANAGER, BENTLEY ATLANTA
The dynamic team at Bentley Atlanta; photo by Kimberly Evans, styling by Miguel Wilson