2024 Bentley Continental GT Speed Review: Luxury and Power Redefined

2024 Bentley Continental GT
Starting at $240.000 est

Highs: Artful exterior design, the cabin is a delight to the senses, world-class ride and handling balance.
Lows: Fuel efficiency isn't a priority, few driver-assistance features are standard, arm-and-a-leg price tag.
Verdict: Yeah, it costs a lot, but the Continental GT is a two-door grand tourer that's worth every penny.

Overview

Covering long hauls on the road behind the wheel of the 2024 Bentley Continental GT feels like mere jaunts across town thanks to this grand tourer's deluxe cabin and just-right suspension tuning. Offered in your choice of either a coupe or a softtop convertible, the Continental GT is styled to stand out while you melt into its softly padded seats. Under the hood is either a V-8 or W-12 engine, both supplemented by twin turbochargers for massive power. In either case, the Continental GT never wants for power, and while it can corner like a sports car, it also easily hides road imperfections when the day calls for comfortable cruising. As expected from the storied British brand, the Conti can be ordered to your exact specification through the Mulliner coachbuilding division. But even if you opt for an off-the-shelf model, you'll still get a beautifully designed luxury car lined with premium materials and packed with desirable features.

What's New for 2024?
Styling tweaks for the 2024 Continental GT include new 22-inch wheel options for the Azure trim, dark gray exterior detailing on the Speed model, and a new optional dark-tinted finish for the aluminum grille trim. Inside, the Azure models come with lofted quilting on the seats and door panels. All models also come with plusher floor mats made from wool. Those wool floor mats now lie on top of carpeting made from recycled nylon.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Coupe: $240,000 (est)
Convertible: $260,000 (est)
S Coupe: $270,000 (est)
Azure Coupe: $290,000 (est)
Speed Coupe: $295,000 (est)
S Convertible: $300,000 (est)
Mulliner Coupe: $310,000 (est)
Azure Convertible: $315,000 (est)
Speed Convertible: $325,000 (est)
Mulliner Convertible: $330,000 (est)

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Updated versions of the existing V-8 and W-12 engines that powered the previous-generation Continental GT provide muscle-car performance. Our testing revealed that the 4.0-liter V-8, which makes 542 horses, can launch the 4926-pound coupe to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds. The more expensive 6.0-liter W-12 engine produces 626 horsepower in non-Speed models and can motivate a coupe to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. The same engine has been tuned up to 650 hp in the Speed model, and we estimate it can reach 60 in as little as 3.1 seconds. Both engines work through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that snaps off quick, smooth shifts. Customers can order the coupe or convertible with either engine. And all Continental GTs come with an all-wheel-drive system standard, which helps put their prodigious power to the road absent any drama.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

We expect a luxurious cabin from anything wearing the Bentley badge, and this two-door is no different. The interior is swathed in luscious, aromatic leather and fine wood veneers, and nearly everything about the Continental GT is customizable—for a price, of course. Bentley's designers thought every design detail through, and each time behind the wheel reveals a surprising detail, such as expertly knurled control knobs and double-stitched diamond-pattern seat trim. Although the Continental GT technically has seatbelts for four occupants, we'd suggest you avoid using the rear seat for hauling adult-size people since both leg- and headroom are limited. In our testing, we were able to fit five carry-on suitcases in the Continental's trunk—plenty of space for a weekend away with your favorite travel companion.

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