It didn't take long for the Swiss Alps to capture my imagination as I explored the mountainous terrain using the prowess of the new 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed, the perfect vessel for cruising to distant lands. After experiencing the exciting roads, refreshing weather and timeless moments in the quaint country town of Andermatt, I vowed to return again, especially if I had a Bentley coupe or convertible in my possession.
Bentley held the international press conference for the all-new 2025 Continental GT Speed (and GTC Speed cabriolet) in Switzerland, where the cities are vibrant and sophisticated and the countryside breathtaking. You'll also find more banks than dentists here, so ultra-luxury, performance cars are ubiquitous, making the Continental GT Speed feel right at home.
Bentley Turns on EV Power
We started the experience with a 1.5-hour drive from the central city of Zurich to Chedi Andermatt, located 4,715 ft above sea level in the Urseren valley, known for its cascading waterfalls, deep gorges, high peaks and pristine alpine lakes. On arrival, Bentley showcased all four generations of the Continental GT Speed for us as we compared the design evolution of each model.
I distinctly remember when the Continental GT made its debut. It was a cultural phenomenon that became a universal driveway spectacle for influential individuals, from professional athletes to savvy real estate investors. Today, the British grand tourer represents creative wizardry in engineering, design and technology, from Bentley's traditional system of bespoke materials and decorative trim to performance and interior personalisation.
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Designed simultaneously on the same platform, the current GT and CTC Speed are plug-in hybrids with a 25.9 kWh battery and a 140 kW e-motor, providing an electric range of 80 kilometers for quiet and efficient driving in the city. You can use 75 percent of gas power in EV driving before the gasoline engine kicks in. The vehicle also operates in this mode. The other three eco modes include Regeneration, E-boost and Charge.
The hybrid setup is a precursor to Bentley Beyond100, the automaker's mission to be a leader in sustainable luxury mobility. Alongside innovation, the strategy's core values include Bentley's commitment to environmental responsibility, social inclusion and enduring luxury. A full EV is coming soon, but Rolls-Royce is already ahead of the game with its all-electric Spectre.
The British wonder is powered by a powerful 4-liter twin-turbo V8 (shared with the Porsche Panamera) that produces a total of 771 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque for acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds. The electric motor contributes 188 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque directly to the total output.
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Alpen Travels in Performance Luxury
It was great fun driving around the ski town while enjoying the fresh air in the British supercar. The Continental GT Speed faced tight bends, tight mountain tunnels and switchbacks with dignity, thanks to its wide 22-inch wheels fitted with Pirelli performance tires, a fully active chassis system and Bentley Dynamic Ride providing exceptional body control.
If you decide to fly on mountain roads while enjoying the fascinating view, the top speed is 208 mph. But I wouldn't do that; Save the theater for the piece. Additional performance comes from active AWD, four-wheel steering, torque vectoring, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters, and twin exhaust ports that rumble when pushed.
Switch driving modes to Sport to automatically open the valves and exhaust for exciting sonorous notes. Bentley mode represents the best of all modes and will adjust to your interaction style. Moreover, the Manual will hold each gear longer, so the GT won't shift up prematurely unless you're close to redline. However, the Continental GT Speed felt a little heavy, especially when taking off, and was not as light as I had imagined.
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Design Improves Muscularity, Comfort and Technology
Whether you choose the Continental GT Speed coupe or the GTC Speed convertible top, Bentley has highlighted both with a commanding front fascia, confident stance and jutting hips. Design director Robin Page likens the vehicle's muscular physique and features to certain animal features. The upright elegance of the Continental mimics the stance of a thoroughbred, exuding self-confidence. This vertical trust has traditionally been part of the company's heritage.
It is noteworthy that Bentley has introduced single headlights for the first time in 29 years. Page likens the front to a tiger face with focused eyes and lowered eyebrows, represented by a horizontal matrix LED line running through the lamps. At rest, the tiger is relaxed and calm but ready to deliver incredible power like a Bentley. Stunning GT and GTC colors to entertain audiences include Candy Red, Jetstream, Magenta, Tourmaline Green and Bronze.
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Step into the sporty and modern cockpit and witness the latest technological developments. Bentley is renowned for bespoke premium materials, whether dark chrome or stone veneer. Owners continually come to Bentley to present their unique expression, often through color combinations and hand-finished materials. The vehicle is enhanced with connected services using Google's network, air ionization and wellness chair technology.
Quilted doors, three-dimensional leather textures and perforated seats set the tone for exquisite craftsmanship. The icing on the cake comes in the form of the 3-way Bentley Rotating Display, which can be switched to show the handcrafted finish, three analogue dials, or the 12.3-inch navigation screen.
With a starting retail price of $302,100 for the Continental GT Speed and $332,200 for the GTC Speed, deliveries are expected by the end of the year. In the meantime, take a break and visit Chedi Andermatt to free your mind and reinvigorate the soul. You work hard when your Bentley chariot is custom-made, and you deserve the reward of your labor.
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Bentley Continental GT Speed Specifications
- Engine: 4.0 liter V8 hybrid engine
- Infection: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Horsepower/Torque: 771 hp/738 lb-ft
- 0-60: 3.1 seconds
- Max Speed: 208 mph
- MPG: 27 combined
- Range: 534 miles/50 miles EV mode
- Price: Starting from $302,100
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