Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
It didn’t take long for Scotty to “beam me up” from Zurich to the enchanting Swiss Alps utilizing the heroics of the brand new Bentley Continental GT Speed, the right vessel when venturing to faraway lands. After experiencing the exciting roads, refreshing air, and timeless moments within the quaint village town of Andermatt, any Trekkie would try to return as often as possible, especially if a Bentley coupe or convertible is at their disposal.
Bentley held the international press drive of its all-new 2025 Continental GT Speed (and GTC Speed cabriolet) in Switzerland, where the cities are vibrant and complex and the countryside is breathtaking and tranquil. You will even find more banks than dentists here, so ultra-luxury, performance automobiles are omnipresent, allowing the Continental GT Speed to feel right at home. We began the experience with a 1.5-hour drive from the central city of Zurich to The Chedi Andermatt, which resides 4,715 ft above sea level within the Urseren valley, known for its cascading waterfalls, deep gorges, high peaks, and pure mountain lakes. Upon arrival, Bentley displayed all 4 generations of the Continental GT Speed for us to fancy while comparing the design evolution of every model.
I distinctly recall when the Continental GT first hit the scene. It was a cultural phenomenon that became a universal driveway display for influential individuals from pro athletes to savvy real estate investors. Today, the British grand tourer represents inventive wizardry in engineering, design, and technology because it pertains to performance and interior personalization from Bentley’s traditional system of bespoke materials and ornamental finishes.
The present GT and CTC Speed – designed concurrently on the identical platform – are plug-in hybrids featuring a 25.9 kWh battery and 140 kW e-motor providing 50 miles of electrical range for driving quietly and efficiently through the town. You should utilize 75% of throttle power in EV drive before the gasoline engine kicks in. The vehicle also starts up on this mode. The opposite three eco modes include Regeneration, E-boost, and Charge. The hybrid setup is a precursor for the automaker’s Bentley Beyond100, a mission of becoming the leader in sustainable luxury mobility. Together with innovation, the core values of the strategy include Bentley’s devotion to environmental responsibility, social inclusion, and enduring luxury. An entire EV is coming shortly, yet Rolls-Royce is already ahead of the sport with its all-electric Spectre.
The British marvel is powered by a stalwart 4-liter twin-turbo V8 (shared with the Porsche Panamera) that produces a combined 771-horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque for a 0 to 60 mph time of three.1 seconds. The electrical motor directly contributes 188-horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque to the overall output. Cruising across the ski town while having fun with the fresh air within the British supercar was a joy. The Continental GT Speed handled the tight bends, narrow mountain tunnels, and switchbacks with dignified mannerisms due to wide 22” rims outfitted with Pirelli performance tires, a completely energetic chassis system, and Bentley Dynamic Ride for extraordinary body control.
Top speed is a blistering 208 mph when you resolve to blow through the mountain roads while absorbing the enchanting scenery. But I wouldn’t try this; save the theatrics for the track. Added performance stems from energetic AWD, all-wheel steering, torque vectoring, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters, and twin exhaust outlets that rumble when pushed. Switch drive modes to Sport mode to mechanically open the valves and exhaust for thrilling audible notes. Bentley mode represents the perfect of all modes and can adjust accordingly to your form of engagement. Furthermore, Manual mode will hold each gear longer so the GT won’t upshift prematurely unless you’re near redlining. Nonetheless, the Continental GT Spec felt a bit heavy, especially during takeoffs, and was not as light as I imagined.
Whether you choose the Continental GT Speed coupe or the GTC Speed soft top, Bentley accentuated each with a commanding front fascia, confident stance, and protrusive hips. Design Director Robin Page likens the vehicle’s muscular physique and features to specific animal traits. The Continental’s upright elegance imitates a thoroughbred’s stance to represent self-assurance. This vertical confidence has traditionally been a component of the corporate’s heritage. Significantly, Bentley has implemented single headlamps for the primary time in 29 years. Page compares the front end to a tiger’s face with focused eyes and lowered brows, represented by a horizontal matrix LED line running through the lamps. In a resting state, the tiger is relaxed and composed but able to deliver incredible potency, like a Bentley. To entertain onlookers, charming GT and GTC colours include Candy Red, Jetstream, Magenta, Tourmaline Green, and Bonze.
Step contained in the sporty and modern cockpit and witness the newest enhancements. Bentley is known for bespoke premium materials, whether dark chrome or stone veneers. Owners consistently come to Bentley to present their unique expressions, mainly through color combos and hand-finished materials. The vehicle has been upgraded with connected services using Google’s network, air ionization, and wellness seat technology. Quilted doors, three-dimensional leather textures, and perforated bucket seats set the tone for stellar craftsmanship. The icing on the cake is available in the shape of the 3-way Bentley Rotating Display, which is interchangeable to indicate either a handcrafted veneer, three analog dials, or the 12.3” navigation screen.
With a starting MSRP of $302,100 for the Continental GT Speed and $332,200 for the GTC Speed, expect deliveries by the top of the yr. Within the interim, take some break day and visit The Chedi Andermatt to release the mind and reenergize the spirit. You’re employed hard and deserve the advantages of your labor while your Bentley chariot is being custom-built. Enjoy!
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