Driving the Bentley 4th generation 'the new Continental GT Speed,' I traveled about 350 kilometers round trip from Seoul to Yangyang, Gangwon Province. The vehicle equipped with a hybrid system demonstrated a maximum output of 782 horsepower, showing strong power and dynamic response throughout the drive. Although there were repetitions of congestion and sudden acceleration during long-distance driving, the smooth driving experience and comfortable ride reduced fatigue.
The new Continental GT Speed is a Grand Tourer, meaning it can travel long distances quickly and comfortably. It features a coupe form with two doors and a low roofline. The voluminous body gives it a closer impression to a sedan than to a sports car, but the silhouette from the side and rear is sleek.
The most noticeable design element is the headlamp. The existing two round headlamps have been replaced with an elongated single headlamp, creating a more dynamic image. This is the first time a single headlamp, instead of the iconic circular headlamp of Bentley, has been applied to a production model since 1959 (S2).
The interior, handcrafted in the UK, is delicate and luxurious. The rotating screen at the center of the dashboard can be selected between a 12.3-inch digital display, an analog clock, or wood veneer, depending on personal preference and situation. Pressing the 'screen' button at the bottom rotates the display for transition.
The plush leather seats, the three-dimensional quilting pattern on the door panels, the silver-trimmed gear knob, climate control unit, buttons, etc., created an elegant atmosphere. However, due to the characteristics of the coupe, the second row is narrow for adults and has low utility. The trunk capacity is 358 liters, smaller than the 400-500L of a typical mid-size sedan.
As the drive began, the vehicle moved smoothly. Thanks to the newly developed hybrid system (Ultra Performance) equipped vehicle that operated solely on the electric motor during the initial urban segment, there was almost no engine noise. The certified pure electric driving range in Korea is 64 kilometers, but in reality, it traveled over 70 kilometers solely on electricity.
On the highway, the internal combustion engine fully engaged, providing a heavy and strong power sensation. Accelerating sharply allowed the speed to increase instantly while maintaining stability without any shaking. The combination of an electric motor (190 horsepower) and a V8 engine (600 horsepower) delivers a maximum output of 782 horsepower, accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 3.2 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 335 kilometers per hour, making this vehicle one of the most powerful models in Bentley's history.
The braking feel is unique. In basic (B, Bentley) mode, the car adjusts its speed and brakes automatically with just a light touch on the pedal; it feels unfamiliar at first, but once accustomed, driving becomes much easier. The ride comfort is pleasantly maintained even on rough roads and sharp curves. There was almost no shock felt when going over speed bumps. However, while seated in the passenger seat, engine noise and vibrations were transmitted from the floor during acceleration.
The factory-installed navigation system was inconvenient to use. Temporarily unable to connect to a smartphone, I searched for a destination using the built-in navigation, but the accuracy of the map and the responsiveness of real-time guidance were lacking. There was a significant difference compared to Korean navigation systems that provide detailed information about traffic lights and speed camera locations.
The official sales price of the new Continental GT, which began delivering to domestic customers in May this year, starts at 346.1 million won for the new Continental GT Speed and 380.2 million won for the new Continental GTC (convertible model) Speed.