Test Drive Review: 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed

When you think of a Bentley, you think of handcrafted cabins, effortless speed, and the unmistakable aura of British prestige. The 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed is the pinnacle of that philosophy — blending handcrafted tradition with new-age performance. Our test drive across Dubai’s highways, Sharjah’s city streets, and the winding mountain roads near Hatta proves that this GT is far more than a car. It is an experience that redefines luxury grand touring.

Exterior: Power Meets Elegance

At first glance, the Continental GT Speed is a rolling sculpture. The long bonnet, muscular haunches, and sharply cut lines flow like liquid metal under the Gulf sun. The matrix grille dominates the front, while crystal-cut LED headlights sparkle like fine jewelry. Large 22-inch Speed wheels add to the stance, while subtle “Speed” badging hints at the beast lurking beneath.

Whether parked outside a Burj Khalifa penthouse or cruising down Sheikh Zayed Road, the car radiates effortless prestige without being ostentatious.

Interior: A Handcrafted Sanctuary

Open the solid doors and you’re greeted by a cabin that blends heritage with modernity. Every surface is wrapped in hand-stitched leather, veneered with polished wood, or detailed with knurled metal controls.

• Front Seats: Wide, supportive, with massage and ventilation functions — ideal for long trips.

• Dashboard: The rotating display switches between a touchscreen, classic analog dials, and a minimalist veneer panel — a party trick that never gets old.

• Rear Seats: Best for occasional passengers, but still finished to Bentley’s highest standards.

In short, the cabin feels like a tailored suit — designed with precision, comfort, and individuality.

Engine & Performance: Effortless Power

Under the bonnet, the Continental GT Speed houses a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 engine, producing a thunderous 659 hp and 900 Nm of torque.

• 0–100 km/h: Just 3.5 seconds.

• Top Speed: 335 km/h (limited, but academic for UAE roads).

• Transmission: An 8-speed dual-clutch that shifts with imperceptible smoothness.

On city streets, it glides like a calm limousine. On open highways, a squeeze of the throttle turns it into a velvet missile, overtaking with total authority. On Hatta’s winding roads, the car shrinks around you — thanks to all-wheel steering and Bentley’s adaptive chassis.

Ride & Handling: The Bentley Balance

The GT Speed is equipped with Bentley Dynamic Ride, an active anti-roll system that keeps the car flat through corners yet buttery smooth on straight roads. Air suspension adjusts instantly, soaking up imperfections.

• In Comfort Mode: It floats like a Rolls-Royce.

• In Sport Mode: It sharpens, grips, and responds like a proper performance coupe.

Despite its weight, the Bentley feels agile, precise, and — most importantly — predictable. It’s the kind of car that gives confidence, whether you’re cruising on Emirates Road or tackling mountain switchbacks.

Technology: Modern Without Losing Soul

Bentley strikes a balance between cutting-edge and classic.

• Infotainment: A high-resolution touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 3D navigation.

• Sound System: Naim for Bentley, with 18 speakers delivering concert-hall clarity.

• Driver Aids: Adaptive cruise, lane assist, night vision, and traffic sign recognition.

• Luxury Touches: A custom fragrance system, soft-close doors, and 64-color ambient lighting.

The tech is present but never overwhelming — it supports the journey rather than distracts from it.

Daily Usability in the UAE

Some might think a Bentley GT is impractical. Our drive says otherwise.

• Cooling: The AC chills the cabin instantly, even in peak Dubai heat.

• Clearance: Adjustable suspension means you glide over speed humps without scraping.

• Boot Space: 358 liters — enough for weekend bags or golf gear.

• Fuel Economy: Luxury buyers don’t ask, but expect ~7–8 km/l in mixed driving.

Whether parked at Emirates Towers, pulling up at The Palm, or cruising toward Abu Dhabi, the GT Speed blends into UAE life as smoothly as a tailored kandura.

The Sound: A Symphony of Power

The W12 has a character all its own. In Comfort mode, it whispers, barely audible in the insulated cabin. In Sport, valves open and the exhaust sings — a deep, refined roar that announces presence without shouting.

It’s music that matches the Bentley spirit: powerful yet sophisticated.