Bentley releases details of fastest ever production model

Bentley has released technical details of its fastest ever production model, the 330km/h Continental GT Speed.

The new performance flagship is due to make its international debut at the Moscow Motor Show next week (August 29), promising supercar-shattering performance from its uprated 460kW W12 engine and eight-speed transmission.

Bentley claims the blistering all-wheel drive coupe, which is powered by an enhanced version of the company’s 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine, is its fastest ever road-car.

The GT Speed gains a power and torque hike of 37kW and 100Nm over its standard stablemate, the Continental GT, to muster a monumental 460kW and 800Nm.

Coupled with a new ZF eight-speed close-ratio automatic transmission and state-of-the-art engine management software, the GT Speed despatches the 0-100km/h sprint in a scorching 4.2 seconds, reaching 160km/h in 9.0 seconds.

Its outstanding performance is matched by an enhanced chassis with up-rated springs, anti-roll bars and bushes, a 10mm front and rear lowering of the ride height, and retuning of the electronically controlled damping and steering systems.

Subtle signature design cues distinguish the GT Speed from its stablemates, including exclusive 21-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, dark-tint matrix to the radiator shell and lower bumper grilles and ‘rifled’ exhaust tailpipes.

Inside the handcrafted cabin, the Speed models are specified exclusively with the Mulliner Driving Specification, featuring quilted, perforated leather and bright metal detailing plus a broader choice of optional technical finishes.

The 423kW W12 powertrain of the Continental GT coupe and GTC convertible models also benefit from enhancements designed for the GT Speed, adopting the new engine management system and eight-speed transmission.

With an eye on the melting polar icecaps, Bentley says all W12 engines now feature an energy recuperation system that, together with the transmission and engine management changes, deliver a 12 per cent improvement in fuel economy and CO2 emissions across the GT range. 

The Continental GT and GT Speed now feature combined cycle fuel economy of 14.5L/100km and CO2 emissions of 338g/km, while the GTC has a combined cycle fuel economy of 14.9L/100km and CO2 emissions of 347g/km.

The order books are open now, with European deliveries scheduled to start in October and Australian delivery expected to commence from April or May next year. Bentley won't have a stand at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney this year, so there will be no public unveiling of the car in Australia prior to the local retail launch.

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