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Fast and flashy: Bentley uncovers 2021 Continental GT Speed
British luxury automaker Bentley flaunts its 2021 Continental GT Speed as the “most capable, performance-focused Bentley ever with no compromise to comfort or luxury.” The GT’s “Speed” name comes from a revised version of the brand’s popular 6.0-liter W12 twin-turbocharged engine, which produces 650hp and 900Nm of torque, 24hp more than the standard W12 motor. As a result, the Continental GT Speed can do the zero-to-100kph dash in 3.6 seconds, and can top 335kph. Meanwhile, the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission manages the power that goes to all four wheels. The gearbox is tuned to upshift later and downshift quicker in Sport mode. The exhaust produces greater noise during start-up and downshift, Bentley added. This grand tourer is poised to continue to be as speedy when the roads start to get curvy. The GT Speed features advanced chassis technology which was designed for this new model. Part of this tech is the new electronic all-wheel steering, which works in the car’s “Bentley” and “Comfort” driving modes. However, it is said to be more apparent in “Sport” mode, as the steering combines with the Bentley Dynamic Ride and an electronic limited slip differential for more agility. At low and medium speeds, the GT Speed’s rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels to make swifter changes of direction, The steering also gives a sharper feel and quicker response. Then at high speeds, the rear wheels steer in the same direction as the front wheels to improve stability. Meanwhile, the active all-wheel drive balances the power and grip evenly between the front and rear wheels during Bentley and Comfort mode. Sport mode has been calibrated with a more rear-biased torque split. And for the first time in a Bentley, the GT Speed introduces the use of an electronic rear differential (eLSD). The eLSD aims to provide better stability in straights as well as in the corners, enhance adjustability while throttle is applied, and deliver better traction in adverse road conditions. Working alongside these systems are key chassis technologies: Bentley’s three-chamber active air suspension with adaptive damping, and the Bentley Dynamic Ride. The Dynamic Ride is an active anti-roll control system first seen in the Bentayga and third-generation Continental GT. It uses electric motors within each anti-roll bar to resist body roll, which can deliver 1300Nm in just 0.3 seconds to counteract cornering forces and keep the body level. Meanwhile, carbon ceramic brakes which have more powerful stopping power, can be optioned. These can be found behind the 22-inch wheels that are unique to the GT Speed. Moving on to the interior, its highlights include a unique duotone color split handcrafted in hide and matching Alcantara, which is also applied to the steering wheel. The luxurious interior can be further personalized with a choice of 15 main and 11 secondary hide colors, as well as the use of leather instead Alcantara for the Speed color split. Bentley’s signature” Diamond in Diamond” quilting is standard, and Speed-embroidered headrests will remind the occupants that they are onboard the most potent Continental GT. Photos from Bentley Also read Bentley releases all-new 2021 Bentayga Bentley to reveal fully electric vehicle by 2026, starts developing EV drive system
