Auto123.com - Helping you drive happy

Bentley Continental GTC Speed makes debut in Detroit

|
Get the best interest rate
Khatir Soltani
When is fast too fast? According to Bentley's latest model, the answer is "never".

On display at the NAIAS in Detroit, the Continental GTC has been given the 'Speed' treatment by Bentley's go-fast scientists- emerging with a twin-turbocharged, 12-cylinder engine and 600 horsepower to enable a 200 mile per hour top speed. These figures make The Continental GTC Speed Bentley's most powerful drop-top ever.


Those in attendance at the Bentley exhibit noted the updated fascia- which includes a more prominent lower air intake and more pronounced grille. Chrome headlamp bezels and some new color schemes help further exclusivity.

An Adaptive Cruise Control system can be specified- automatically decelerating or even stopping the car with no driver involvement required. Additionally, braking power is available via the largest set of carbon ceramic brakes ever fitted to a passenger car. It's an important option in a machine that can hit 200 miles per hour- or about 195 if the top is left down in the process.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen explains "the Continental GTC is an elegant Grand Touring convertible in the Bentley tradition, exciting the emotions with its distinctive blend of performance, luxury, craftsmanship and modernity. The GTC Speed completes the family of Continental Speed models and broadens the appeal of the GTC to customers who demand a more focused, open-top driving experience."


photo:Matthieu Lambert
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada