The Art of Luxury Issue 47 2021 | Page 91

AUTOMOTIVE
Another signature feature of the most potent version of the Continental GT is unique , 22 ” Speed wheels in bright silver , with the option of a dark tint or black gloss finish . “ Jewel ” versions of the fuel and oil filler caps are standard , while illuminated Bentley treadplates to both sills are a nod to the Speed ’ s performance credentials .
A Unique and Luxurious Cabin
The cabin of the new Continental GT Speed showcases Bentley ’ s expertise in creating the world ’ s finest automotive interiors . Handcrafted materials blend with unique trim and badging that are only available in the Speed and can be further personalised if desired .
Both engine and transmission have been deliberately calibrated to suit the car ’ s driver-focused credentials . This is most noticeable in SPORT mode , where the twin-turbocharged W12 has been tuned to keep the engine in the power band longer by up-shifting later , or downshifting earlier . This creates a more eager response to the driver ’ s throttle inputs .
The dual-clutch , eight-speed transmission shift is twice as fast in SPORT mode as in the standard W12 model , in keeping with the Speed ’ s ethos . This combines with a greater exhaust character during start-up and downshifts .
Not only does the Continental GT Speed offer impressive performance , to maximise efficiency the model benefits from Bentley ’ s Stop-Start technology where the engine rests not only when the vehicle is stationary , but also at near-to-stop speeds .
Bentley ’ s Variable Displacement system shuts down half of the engine ’ s 12 cylinders under certain conditions with the transitions between the two being imperceptible to the driver . Intake and exhaust valves , fuel injection and ignition are all shut down on defined cylinders , with the engine running as a six-cylinder for improved fuel efficiency .
Exterior Detail – GT Speed ’ s Statement of Intent
The Continental GT Speed ’ s credentials are further highlighted by a unique duotone colour split handcrafted in hide and matching Alcantara , which is also applied to the steering wheel . The exterior badging is matched with an elegant Speed icon on the passenger fascia .
The luxurious interior can be further personalised with a choice of 15 main and 11 secondary hide colours , as well as the use of leather in lieu of Alcantara for the Speed colour split . The centre console can be finished in new dark tint engine turned aluminium , bringing a geometrically perfect machined surface and a beautifully patterned finish .
Bentley ’ s Diamond in Diamond quilting is included as standard , and Speed embroidered headrests distinguish the cabin of the most potent Continental GT .
A range of veneers are available in GT Speed , starting with Piano Black veneer as standard . Customers can also choose Crown Cut Walnut , Dark Stained Burr Walnut and Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus at no extra cost , with three open pore options ( Dark Burr Walnut , Crown Cut Walnut and Koa ) available as additional options .
As with all Continental GTs , the Speed offers four seats and exceptional grand touring luggage capacity of 358 litres . Packed with exquisite detail , a technologically advanced instrument panel and the acclaimed Bentley Rotating Display , the new driver-focused model widens the Continental GT ’ s performance credentials .
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The muscular bodywork of the Continental GT has been amplified still further on the GT Speed . Unique exterior detailing complements a powerful , athletic stance , blending seamlessly with the effortless elegance inherent to the Continental GT .
Speed models add a Dark Tint radiator grille and lower bumper grille , as well as unique , more sculpted sports sills , a Dark Tint radiator matrix and discreet Speed badging in chrome on the front fender .
Issue 47 2021 The Art of Luxury
91