Bentley's facelifted Continental GT and new GT Speed

Bentley has revealed its facelifted Continental GT as well as the new GT Speed, the fastest and most powerful production Bentley ever. Both cars feature a wider and lower air intake plus a more upright radiator grille to improve airflow to the 6.0L W12 powerplant. The GT Speed outputs 600bhp (441kW) and 750Nm (553ft-lb) of torque, 15% more twist and 9% more power than the standard Continental GT. Power is also improved right across the rev-range thanks to lower friction and lighter engine internals plus a new electronic management system. The end result is a 0-60mph time of just 4.3 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.5s) and a top speed 202mph (326km/h).

Specific changes to the engine include a new crankcase design, a lighter camshaft chain and a faster cam sensor, which see carbon-dioxide emissions drop 3.5% compared to the previous model. Small change when you consider that the new model still emits 396g of CO2 per km.

The Conti GT, although grand, was universally derided as being a bland drive. All the right elements were there, a prestigious badge, a W12 engine and an AWD chassis, but somehow when put together the mega-coupe failed to ignite much passion. However, the return of the legendary ‘Speed’ title and performance numbers that put thoroughbred sports cars to shame will likely change all that.

Full gallery after the jump.