As Bentley expands its coachbuilding arm, the British carmaker has not-so-subtly hinted that design elements from limited-run models like the Bacalar and the Batur will be incorporated into its core offerings. Today we see the first examples of this styling shift with the unveiling of the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed.
Now in its fourth generation, the Continental GT Speed has undergone some sizable changes. Its iconic W12 engine is now relegated to the history books, replaced by an updated version of the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 previously seen across the brand’s portfolio. Assisted by an electric motor, it delivers 771 horsepower while allowing for silent electric cruising. Its styling now draws from those aforementioned special editions, introducing a single headlight motif that’ll appear in future Bentleys alongside new bodywork to support it.
However, while Bentley officially states that the GT and the GTC are now in their fourth generation, a look at this Tourmaline Green-painted two-door reveals that it isn’t all new. The carmaker acknowledges this, stating that the latest Continental sports 68 percent new components over the outgoing model. To best understand it, it’s helpful to view it as a substantial update, carrying over components that made the previous GT a class-leading grand-tourer while introducing new elements to shift its character and capabilities and push it forward.
The most significant update introduced for the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed is, without a doubt, its powertrain. Although its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 is quite familiar, it now features increased fuel pressure and two single-scroll turbochargers, allowing it to run hotter to reduce emissions. By itself, the Speed’s V8 generates 584 hp and 590 pound-feet of torque. That’s 42 hp and 22 lb-ft over the outgoing V8-powered GT.
Factor in the electric motor nestled within its eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and its figures become truly impressive. The new motor has a maximum output of 187 hp and 332 lb-ft, meaning the Speed now generates 771 hp and 738 lb-ft. That’s 19 percent more power and 11 percent more torque than the previous W12-Speed could muster. This not only makes the new GT Speed the most potent road-going Bentley ever, but it also allows it to sprint to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds (3.2 for the GTC Speed.)
Equally important is how this electric motor interacts with this car’s V8 and its all-wheel-drive system. As such, when it’s not filling in torque to counter the effects of turbo lag, it can actively vector torque between the front and rear axles with a separate brake-actuated torque vectoring system adjusting the individual wheels. Bentley introduces Pure EV, Electric Boost, Regenerative Braking, and Charge modes to manage its behavior.
Powered by a 25.9-kilowatt-hour battery pack positioned behind the rear axle, the GT’s electric motor runs off a 400-volt electrical system. It can charge at a peak rate of 11 kilowatts, allowing it to be fully charged in just under three hours. However, because the Continental is now a plug-in hybrid, it can travel on electric power alone. The European WLTP cycle rates it at 50 miles, so expect that figure to drop slightly for EPA tests. Additionally, the Speed can run off the electric motor at up to 87 mph, or 75 percent throttle input.
Along with its torque vectoring capabilities, the GT Speed offers all-wheel steering and an electronic limited-slip differential, while Bentley’s Dynamic Ride system receives an updated stability control system. Its standard air suspension system now incorporates two-valve dampers and dual chamber springs. These allow the car’s computer to adjust compression and rebound individually, allowing greater tuning flexibility. As such, its cushiest setting is softer while its firmest is even stiffer without affecting one another.
Alongside its mechanical components, the GT Speed receives plenty of exterior updates. These include a new single headlight motif, replacing the outgoing car’s LED pair on either side. This new lighting element introduces what Bentley calls a “horizontal eyebrow,” which couples with Matrix headlights comprising 120 LEDs. The Continental’s front end is all-new, including a color-matched body kit that works alongside a new set of 22-inch wheels.
It’s a similar story out back where the GT Speed wears a new rear bumper, tail lights, trunk lid, and exhaust tips. The rear’s lighting elements now feature a three-dimensional effect achieved by implementing a diamond pattern. Tourmaline Green is the 2025 model’s launch color and the latest to join the carmaker’s extensive palette. In GTC form, its roof retracts in 19 seconds at up to 30 mph speeds while its top speed shrinks from the coupe’s 208 mph limit to a reduced 177.
Inside, the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed appears the most familiar, with its dashboard layout and 20-way adjustable front seats essentially carrying over. However, its digital instrument cluster receives updated graphics while its seats incorporate a new quilt pattern accented by fading perforations. A Dark Chrome Specification joins its options list, darkening its interior trim à la Rolls-Royce Black Badge. Its 12.3 display still rotates, although it’s now powered by a new electric architecture that simultaneously allows for more comprehensive driver assist features.
Production of the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed and its GTC sibling is expected to begin in the third quarter of this year, with customer cars arriving shortly after. As of writing, the British carmaker has yet to announce any official pricing figures, which are expected to come soon.
