The 2025 Bentley Continental GT Convertible Speed blends electrified innovation with timeless luxury, delivering a driving experience that’s as serene as it is exhilarating. With its new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, this open-top masterpiece proves Bentley is charging toward an electric future—gracefully yet powerfully.
Powertrain Breakdown: Silence Meets Strength
At the heart of the Bentley Continental GT Convertible Speed lies a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine pumping out 591 horsepower. Paired with a 188-hp electric motor nestled within the transmission, the combined output soars to 771 hp. A 22-kWh battery pack powers the electric side, offering up to 40 miles of whisper-quiet range in ideal conditions. Recharging is a breeze with an 11-kW onboard charger, or the V-8 can top it off on the go. While Bentley’s first full EV won’t arrive until 2027, this PHEV setup signals a bold step forward for the brand.
The exterior has evolved too. A major facelift refreshes every panel, with standout “eyebrow” headlights adding flair. Still, it rides on the same third-generation platform from 2018, shared with the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid—a proven foundation for luxury performance.
Vehicle Tested: 2025 Bentley Continental GT Convertible Speed
Base Price: $336,350
Price as Tested: $TBC
Test Location: Cheshire, England
Driving Impressions: Two Cars in One
This Bentley feels like a dual-personality marvel. In electric mode, it glides silently—perfect for top-down cruising through Cheshire’s countryside, where birdsong replaced engine roar. Yet, prod the throttle harder, and the V-8 awakens with a ferocious snarl, transforming the experience entirely. Switching to Sport mode keeps the engine humming, unleashing raw power that belies the car’s 5,811-pound curb weight.
Performance stats impress: 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds—just a hair behind the Coupe’s 3.1—despite the added heft. Top speed caps at 177 mph (versus the Coupe’s 208 mph), but that’s plenty for most. The electric motor’s instant 332 lb-ft of torque eliminates turbo lag, while the V-8 dominates at higher revs, outshining the old W-12 in both punch and efficiency. Braking blends regenerative and friction systems seamlessly, with standard iron brakes delivering smooth, confident stops.
However, the ride isn’t flawless. Fitted with 22-inch wheels and Pirelli P Zero all-season tires, the Continental GT Convertible Speed handles cold, wet roads well but falters in tight corners. Quick throttle inputs can briefly overwhelm grip, pushing the front wide despite all-wheel drive. Plus, the low-profile tires amplify bumps, even with adaptive dampers dialed in.
Living with Luxury
Inside, the cabin is a showcase of craftsmanship—arguably the finest in production today. Buyers can personalize everything, from subtle hues to wild trims. Yet, minor gripes emerge: the glossy 12.3-inch touchscreen and console switches attract fingerprints, and plastic bits in the metal vents feel out of place in this $336,350+ ultra-luxury ride.
The fabric roof drops fast and tucks away cleanly, maintaining near-Coupe refinement when up. Top-down, though, there’s no high-tech wind management—just a clip-in deflector that works but looks clunky and limits rear seating. Speaking of which, the back seats are best left to kids or contortionists.
Is It Worth the Price?
In the ultra-luxury convertible segment, the Bentley Continental GT Convertible Speed stands tall. Competitors like the Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider cost more and lack rear seats, while Aston’s Vanquish Volante remains a mystery. Rolls-Royce skips open-tops entirely, and the Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo, though cheaper, can’t match Bentley’s prestige or power. At this price point, it’s a compelling choice for those craving exclusivity and versatility.
Pros and Cons
What We Love:
- Powerful plug-in hybrid system that blends gas and electric efficiency perfectly.
- Smooth and comfortable drive with thrilling performance on demand.
- Impressively effective electric-only mode, even with the top down.
What Could Be Better:
- Cabin plastics easily attract fingerprints.
- Clip-in wind deflector is clunky to use and not the most stylish.
