Bentley Continental Review

The luxury GT market has been undergoing electrification transformation in recent years. Consumers want the texture and performance of traditional super-luxury cars while expecting lower daily usage costs. As the brand's first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Speed model, the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed not only continues the luxurious positioning of the Continental GT series but also sets a new standard in its class with a combined output of 782 PS, 1000 N·m of torque, and an 80km pure electric range. This test will focus on the balance between its dynamic performance and luxurious experience to see whether this million-dollar hybrid GT can meet the diverse needs of high-end users.

The 2025 Continental GT Speed retains the classic Bentley GT silhouette but looks sportier in detail. The body length measures 4895mm and width is 2187mm, slightly wider than the 2019 fuel-powered version, paired with 22-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels for enhanced visual impact. The front features a black matrix-style grille, and the LED headlights incorporate dynamic turn signals, adding to its high recognizability. The sides feature smooth lines, with a waistline extending from the fenders to the rear, creating a low and sleek stance. The rear retains a quad-round exhaust layout, while the taillights are smoked for an enhanced sporty look. The overall design not only inherits Bentley's elegance but also emphasizes the performance-oriented identity of the Speed model through sporty styling elements.

The interior continues Bentley's iconic luxurious style, with extensive use of leather upholstery paired with wooden trims, offering a refined touch. The center console is equipped with a 12.3-inch rotating touchscreen that supports CarPlay and Android Auto, and the system operates smoothly. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and features multifunction buttons and paddle shifters, along with electric adjustment functionality to suit drivers of different heights precisely. The front seats offer 12-way electric adjustment, with heating and ventilation capabilities (not explicitly listed in the configuration table but experienced during testing), providing excellent support and soft padding for long periods of comfort without noticeable fatigue. The rear seat has a two-seat layout, but legroom is limited due to the 2851mm wheelbase, making it more suitable for short trips. In terms of storage space, the front central armrest box and door storage compartments offer ample room, and the trunk's standard capacity meets daily needs, with a design that makes it convenient for placing luggage.

The core powertrain consists of a 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering a combined output of 782 PS and 1000 N·m of torque, mated to an 8-speed DCT gearbox and an all-wheel-drive system. During the actual driving experience, in pure electric mode, the motor's 450 N·m torque easily handles city commutes with smooth acceleration and excellent quietness. Switching to Sport mode, the engine and motor work in sync for a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 3.2 seconds, with power readily available and strong mid-to-high-end acceleration. The steering is precise with minimal play, and in Sport mode, the steering weight increases, offering a clearer sense of road feedback. The chassis is equipped with front and rear air suspension that supports variable stiffness; in Comfort mode, it absorbs most road bumps, while in Sport mode, support is significantly enhanced, providing excellent body control when cornering. This test covered approximately 300km, including urban traffic, highway cruising, and mountain roads, achieving an average fuel consumption of about 8.5L/100km. If used primarily in electric mode for commuting, the operating costs are significantly lower than those of the fuel-powered version.

Sound insulation performance is one of the highlights. At high-speed cruising, wind and tire noise are well-controlled, and even when the engine kicks in, the V8 engine's roar is tuned to be rich and not harsh. The seat comfort maintains Bentley's high standards; the side bolsters provide sufficient support during spirited driving while remaining soft for everyday use. The advanced driver assistance systems are comprehensive, with features such as ACC adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, 360-degree panoramic cameras, and more as standard. Automatic parking accuracy is high, which is especially practical for a vehicle over 2 meters wide. The battery capacity is 25.9kWh and can be fully charged in 3 hours using a slow charger, offering an 80km pure electric range that easily covers daily commuting needs, enabling zero-fuel consumption for short trips.

Overall, the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed PHEV's core advantage lies in its "dual enhancements in performance and luxury." Compared to the 2019 fuel-powered Speed model, its total torque has increased by approximately 20%. While acceleration is faster, the pure electric range also reduces daily usage costs. Compared to competitors in the same class (such as the Porsche 911 Turbo S E-Hybrid), the Continental GT Speed holds a clear advantage in terms of luxury and comfort, with leather and wood interiors offering a noticeably superior texture over the technologically themed cabins of its rivals. This car is more suitable for high-end users seeking both performance and luxury experiences—if you need a car that provides a quiet commute while also offering driving pleasure on weekends, it is an excellent choice. However, it's worth noting that the rear seating space is limited, making it more fitting for couples or consumers who prioritize personal driving experiences.

As a key product in Bentley's electrification transition, the 2025 Continental GT Speed PHEV successfully balances performance, luxury, and practicality. It is not only a luxurious ride allowing you to cruise quietly in the city but also a performance machine capable of unleashing passion on the track or mountain roads, perfectly embodying the GT spirit of "commuting on weekdays and thrilling on weekends."