Bentley has unveiled the fourth generation of its iconic Continental GT, but the spotlight has so far been on its most extreme variants. The launch was headlined by the formidable 782hp GT Speed and the lightweight, two-seat Supersports. In this context, the new 'standard' 680hp Continental GT, arriving in December 2025, might seem almost modest. However, as a new review confirms, this model remains the quintessential Bentley grand tourer, blending formidable performance with peerless luxury.
A Potent Hybrid Powertrain for Everyday Elegance
Under the bonnet lies a sophisticated 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 paired with a 140kW electric motor, forming what Bentley calls its High Performance Hybrid system. This setup delivers 680hp and a colossal 686lb ft of torque, channeled through an eight-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. The result is startling performance for a 2,384kg coupe: 0-62mph takes just 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 168mph.
The real-world benefit of the 25.5kWh battery is a claimed 53 miles of pure electric range. This allows for silent, zero-emission commuting during the week, saving the sonorous V8 for weekend excursions. Officially, this leads to remarkable efficiency figures of 217mpg and 29g/km of CO2, though these are achieved under optimal test conditions. For buyers, including those investing from £202,400, it translates to significant savings on company car tax and Vehicle Excise Duty.
Craftsmanship, Comfort and Customisation
The Continental GT's design is an evolution of a winning formula, handsome and understated. It is offered in multiple specifications, including the sporty Black Edition, the luxurious Azure, and the flagship Mulliner. The review car was an Azure model finished in a unique Mulliner 'Cricket Ball' paint costing £9,540. With options, the total price reached a staggering £279,735.
Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of craftsmanship. The Azure's seats feature heating, cooling, and a Postural Adjust system with inflatable air pockets for long-drive comfort. While rear space is tighter than in the front, it surpasses rivals like the Aston Martin DB12 or Porsche 911. The hybrid battery does impact practicality, reducing boot space to 260 litres in the coupe.
Technology is seamlessly integrated, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen for connectivity and a clever 'digital detox' feature that rotates to reveal three analogue dials. Physical controls, like knurled drive mode selectors, maintain a tactile connection.
The Driving Experience: A Grand Tourer First
On the road, the Continental GT's character is defined by its breadth of ability. It starts silently in EV mode, with the V8's resonant rumble emerging only as revs climb. The hybrid system's 190hp electric boost virtually eliminates turbo lag, making mid-range acceleration effortless and the gear changes impeccably smooth.
The hybrid layout, with the battery at the rear, improves weight distribution. Coupled with chassis technology like rear-wheel steering, an electronic limited-slip differential, and the active Bentley Dynamic Ride system, the GT feels balanced and composed. The steering is direct, and the carbon-ceramic brakes are immensely powerful.
This is not a raw sports car; it is a consummate grand tourer. It feels mature and cohesive, designed to devour continents in supreme comfort rather than set lap records. As reviewer Tim Pitt notes, it is a car you enjoy on every journey, no matter how mundane.
Verdict: The Best in Class?
The Continental GT's only notable flaw is its compromised boot space. Its price is also steep, but opting for this 680hp model over the more expensive Speed or Supersports represents a relative saving.
It successfully contends with rivals like the Aston Martin DB12, Maserati GranTurismo, and Porsche Panamera. In fulfilling founder W.O. Bentley's ethos of building "a fast car, a good car, the best in its class," this latest Continental GT makes a compelling case. It is undeniably fast, unquestionably good, and as an all-rounder to drive and enjoy daily, it may very well be the best.
