(January 2, 2012) The Continental GT Speed Convertible, Bentley’s new open-top performance flagship — and the world’s fastest four-seat convertible — makes its international debut on Jan. 14 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The new GT Speed Convertible combines the sensory pleasures of roof-down luxury touring with the shattering performance of a 616-horsepower twin-turbocharged 6.0 liter W12, while delivering a fifteen per cent improvement in fuel efficiency.



The close-ratio eight-speed transmission, uprated and lowered suspension and retuned steering provide exhilarating acceleration and sharp, communicative handling without detriment to the renowned ride comfort of Bentley’s Continental convertible. Permanent all-wheel drive ensures optimum traction and power delivery whatever the road conditions.

Taking its place at the pinnacle of the Bentley Continental range, the new GT Speed Convertible has a top speed of 202 mph and in true Bentley style, no compromises have been made in craftsmanship, luxury or refinement to deliver this unrivaled performance.

Subtle sporting design cues include exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels, dark-tint grilles and ‘rifled’ exhaust tail pipes. Inside its handcrafted cabin, the GT Speed convertible features the Mulliner Driving Specification as standard, blending contemporary luxury with a distinctly sporting character.

Commenting on the new Continental GT Speed Convertible, Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive Dr Wolfgang Schreiber said:  "Following the recent successful introduction of the GT Speed, the new GT Speed Convertible will appeal to drivers who seek the sensory thrills of the world’s fastest four-seat soft-top and the practicality of a year-round grand tourer, together with unrivaled levels of luxury and refinement. It is designed for those who accept no compromise."

The Continental GT Speed convertible shares its powertrain specification with its Bentley stablemate the GT Speed coupé. The 616-horsepower twin-turbocharged, 48-valve, W12 engine powers the new convertible to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Zero to 100 mph is despatched in only 9.7 seconds. Peak torque — an impressive 590 pound-feet — is reached at just 2000 revs/min and maintains that level through to 5000 revs/min for effortless, refined performance at all times.

From outside, the Continental GT Speed convertible is distinguished by a matrix radiator grille and bumper air intakes in a dark-tint chrome finish. The 21” Speed alloy wheels are unique to this model, and are available in silver or an optional dark tint. Large, elliptical exhaust tailpipes feature a rifled interior, while a further, subtle design touch is revealed when the bonnet is opened – the black inlet manifold is unique to the Continental Speed models. As with the GT Speed coupé, the winged ‘B’ badge which crowns the radiator shell is set upon a black enamel background.

The front wings of the GT Speed Convertible are created in superformed aluminum, their seamless form and crisply-defined body creases creating an impression of tension and muscularity. The 10 mm lower suspension and unique 21-inch wheels accentuate the wide, low and poised stance. Despite the supercar performance, additional spoilers are unnecessary — the gentle lip on the double-horseshoe trunk lid generates all the downforce the GT Speed Convertible needs, even at over 200 mph.