Bentley has introduced its new performance flagship, its fastest production model ever, the Continental GT Speed coupe to the Middle East.

The new 205 mph (329 km/h) GT Speed will appeal to driving enthusiasts who place a high value on outright performance, agile handling, distinctive design and sporting luxury, the company said.

Orders for the new GT Speed are being taken now, with deliveries to commence in December 2012.

At the heart of the new Continental GT Speed is an up-rated version of the unique Bentley 6-litre, 48-valve, four-cam, twin turbocharged W12 engine. For the new model, the legendary Bentley W12 develops 625 PS (616 bhp/460 kW) at 6000 rev/min and 800 Nm of torque to deliver thunderous, supercar performance with effortless overtaking capability. The 0-100 km/h sprint is dispatched in a mere 4.2 seconds and the GT Speed has a top speed of 329 km/h.

Channelling the extreme performance of the GT Speed is a unique chassis tune that includes uprated steering and suspension systems and a lowered ride height. The enhanced chassis is complemented by unique 21-inch Speed wheels, available in two lustrous finishes, and fitted with 275 35 R21 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tyres. The result is a sportier and more engaging Bentley driving experience with tauter handling and improved agility, the company said.

Chris Buxton, regional director for the Middle East, said: “For nearly a decade, the Bentley Continental GT has defined high luxury, high performance grand touring and the unique W12 engine has been so successful that Bentley is now the world’s largest producer of 12-cylinder engines. The new GT Speed with its harder-edged, sportier character reaffirms this pinnacle positioning and will continue to broaden the appeal of the Continental coupe in the Middle East.”

Despite the GT Speed’s sporting overtones, this grand tourer retains a hand-crafted interior created using only the finest natural materials. Soft, supple leathers, polished veneers and cool-touch metals combine with the meticulous craftsmanship for which Bentley is renowned to provide a cabin of exceptional quality, he said. – TradeArabia News Service