Bentley Continental GT Speed Named a Future Classic

There is no question that Bentley makes superb luxury cars. And over the past century, the Crewe located manufacturer has made some classics that include the Arnage, the Flying Spur, the Azure, and the Mulsanne. While everyone has their favorite, most people would agree that the new Continental GT Speed is something special. Now, though, that uniqueness has been recognized by the entire auto world. It’s true: the Bentley Continental GT Speed named a Future Classic by Motor Klassik Awards 2022.

The Continental GT evolved in 2003, and it was manufactured for people who had never owned a Bentley. The company hoped to increase the number of new customers with the Continental GT, and they didn’t disappoint with the new luxury features. Many things about the GT were unique and different. It was the first Bentley to have 12 cylinders, the first with four-wheel drive, and the GT had an extra 100 hp over the next more powerful Bentley. On the road, the Continental GT proved to be the fastest accelerating luxury car, reaching 200 mph with ease, and surprisingly it was one of the cheapest Bentley’s at the time.

Fast forward to 2023, and the Continental GT Speed offers state of art styling and extravagant luxury. It offers comfort and functionality like no other. Drivers have a choice between the powerful twin-turbocharged V8 or the W12 engine. As with all models, the GT Speed has the best materials including rich wood, fragrant leather, and textured metal lining the cabin. 

Whatever 2023 Continental GT model you select, rest assured it will be agile, quick, and have potent power, and all the GTs come with AWD as standard. When you buy a Bentley, fuel efficiency is probably not your chief concern, but in any case, the luxury car will average about 20 mpg.

The inside of the GT Speed is all luxury; aromatic leather and fine wood veneers dominate the surfaces. And whatever you want personalized, you can have. The center of the dashboard has a 12-Inch infotainment center with gauges for time, exterior air temperature, and compass heading.

Both Android Auto and Apple Carplay are standard as is the digital gauge display that permits the driver to modulate many of the functions. The two audio systems available include the superb Naim system and the Bang & Olufsen arrangement.

The GT Speed has several driver assistance options including a night vision system, adaptive cruise control,  and automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

What is the cost?

Bentley has not revealed the exact price, but expect this future Bentley classic to start at a base price of $220,000. Add in the cost of upgrades and extras and you will have the car for about $300,000. And Bentley has an outstanding warranty which covers everything for the first 3 years regardless of how many miles you put on it.