New Bentley Continental GT S Bridges Dynamic Gap to GT Speed

Bentley has today launched the fifth derivative of the Continental GT. In case you're keeping track, Crewe deems the Supersport as a standalone model in its own right. Semantics aside, the S offers the same 671bhp and 686lb-ft of torque of the regular GT, but sharpens the dynamic focus.

To achieve this, Bentley has fitted their Performance Active Chassis, which has been the preserve of the 771bhp Speed and Mulliner up to this point. This includes active all-wheel drive, torque vectoring - front to rear and across the axles - plus 48-volt Bentley Dynamic Ride, dual-valve dampers, and active anti-roll. Further increasing agility are a rear electronic limited slip differential, revised ESC settings and four wheel steering. Bentley states the car features their most advanced and driver-centric AWD setup.

New Continental GT S and GT Convertible S - front three quarter tracking image on a canyon road from a low angle

New Continental GT S and GT Convertible S — Continental GT Convertible S launches alongside the coupe

To suit the newfound sharpness, the driving modes have been updated. Dynamic Mode permits a level of rear-axle slip before intervening, while the ESC can now be fully turned off to permit a ‘cornering stance balanced on-throttle’.

The 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 certainly has the goods to indulge. It produces 591bhp on its own, with a single electric motor mounted within the eight-speed DCT contributing the balance. 0-60mph takes 3.3 seconds, while the top speed of the Continental GT S stands at 190mph. Drawing power from a 25.9kWh battery, the 2,384kg hybrid can cover up to 50 miles in pure electric mode. On the flipside, the standard sports exhaust is said to bring out the aural character of the V8.

New Continental GT S and GT Convertible S - Blackline Flying B emblem

New Continental GT S and GT Convertible S - detail image of dashboard carbon fibre weave

Externally, the GT S distinguishes itself by adopting the Blackline Specification which includes a darkened lower front lip spoiler, gloss black matrix grilles, and badges. Extending the theme is a Beluga Black finish for the mirror caps, sill extensions and rear diffusor. The GT Speed also donates its tinted LED matrix headlights and 22” ten-spoke alloys wheels. Carbon ceramic brakes remain on the options list.

Inside, the two-tone upholstery features a GT S-specific split together with the fluted seat design, while Dinamica fabric adorns the key touch points, including steering wheel, gear lever, seats and door inserts. Standard Piano black veneer echoes the exterior’s Blackline specification, although high-gloss carbon fibre and other finishes are optional.

Bentley UK is yet to confirm pricing for the Continental GT S. Given the entry-level GT costs £202,400, and Speed £236,400, we anticipate the GT S will split the difference.