With the all-new Continental GT under production,
Bentley engineers now have time to develop and test newer variants of Crewe’s
luxury grand tourer. Judging from these new spy shots, it looks like they are applying the
final touches on the upcoming Continental GT Speed version. The prototype features details that are typical of past
Speed-badged models.
Those include the blacked-out chrome parts seen on
previous Continental GT Speed Black Edition models (grille and light surround,
window trim), as well as the two extra coolers placed behind the mesh in the
front bumper. The only reason for them to be there is to provide additional
cooling to a more powerful engine.
That’s something Continental GT Speed models have
traditionally offered, and the new one will make no exception. While the only
Conti GT model on sale now has 626 hp on tap from a 6.0-liter
twin-turbo W12 gasoline engine, the Speed version is expected to boost that to
around 650-670 hp.
It will also feature tweaks to the suspension, which
will be stiffer and lower to allow for sharper handling. Furthermore, the
wheels will be offered in a special design, possibly in a mixed arrangement —
smaller and narrower rims at the front, larger and wider at the rear.
That’s likely the reason why the test prototype
features different alloy wheel models on the front and rear axles. Expect the
final production car to get a fixed rear wing as well. As with the
previous-generation model, the Speed will be the range-topping Continental GT,
and that will be obvious in the passenger compartment as well. Expect the
finest of materials and many Speed-branded details.
The Bentley Continental GT Speed might debut next
year as a 2020 model.
Cr : Carscoops
