The new 2022 Bentley Continental GT Speed is billed as the “most dynamic road car in Bentley’s 101 year history and ultimate performance-focused interpretation of the world’s benchmark luxury Grand Tourer.” That’s a lot to live up to.

The third-generation model continues the storied history of Speed variants. For the Continental GT, that lineage can be traced back to 2007 when the first Continental GT Speed was unveiled, itself inspired by the 3-Liter Speed models of the 1920s.

The Continental Speed GT gets a Dark Tint grille and lower bumper grille, uniquely sculpted sports sills, Dark Tint radiator matrix, and chrome Speed badging. “Jewel” versions of the fuel and oil filler caps are standard and illuminated Bentley treadplates on both sills are a nod to the Speed’s performance credentials.

The Speed variant of the Continental GT Is honed for performance.Photo courtesy of Bentley Motors

The power plant of the new model is an upgraded take on Bentley’s classic twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 engine. It delivers 650 brake horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. It has a top speed of 208 mph and can scoot from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. When in Sport mode, the car up-shifts later and downshifts earlier.

Each 2022 Bentley Continental GT Speed comes with electronic all-wheel steering and three drive modes: Bentley, Comfort, and Sport. At low and medium speeds, the GT Speed’s rear wheels are steered in the opposite direction to the front wheels to aid a rapid change of direction, which makes the car feel more nimble. At high speeds, the wheels steer in the same direction to improve stability. Bentley notes that the system is more active on the Continental GT than it is on the Flying Spur.

The car’s all-wheel drive has been recalibrated to provide a character shift that’s different than the traditional Continental GT. Bentley and Comfort drive modes balance the grip between the front and rear wheels. Sport mode initiates rear-biased torque.

The car is powered by a twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12 engine.Photo courtesy of Bentley Motors

For the first time in the model’s history, there is an electronic rear limited slip differential. It’s been built by hand. In Bentley and Comfort model, it provides added traction support. In sport mode, it improves turn-in response and increases straight-line performance.

Each model comes with an air suspension and anti-roll control system. Electronic stability control can be turned off for more driving freedom.

Bentley has engineered a new carbon ceramic brake system for the car that is available as an upgrade. It features carbon silicon carbide discs that combine with the car’s 10-piston front calipers and four-piston rears to enable firm braking response while saving weight and creating a very low level of brake dust.

The whole rig rides on 22-inch Speed-unique bright silver wheels. Buyers can opt for Darrk Tint or black gloss wheels.

Bentley offers the model with a duotone interior color scheme that is handcrafted in hide and matching Alcantara that extends to the steering wheel. Buyers get to choose from 15 main and 11 secondary hide colors, as well as opt for leather in lieu of Alcantara. Bentley’s signature Diamond in Diamond quilting is standard.

The centre console can be finished in new dark tint engine turned aluminum. A Piano Black veneer is standard. Crown Cut Walnut, Dark Stained Burr Walnut, and Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus are no-cost options.

Each Continental GT Speed has the same four seat capacity and 358 liters of cargo space as the traditional GT.

Pricing for the model is around $275,000.