On the same day as Aston Martin gives us the new Vanquish, Bentley has chosen to reveal full details of its Continental GT Speed. Make of the timing what you will, but it certainly implies an exciting future for British supercars.
Set to be unveiled at next week's Goodwood Festival of Speed, the GT Speed follows the recipe established by the original car; more power, more luxury and more cost.
With the W12 model as its base, the GT Speed produces 625hp and 590lb ft, up from 575hp and 516lb ft for the standard car. According to Bentley, this allows the Speed to complete 0-60mph in four seconds and reach a top speed of 205mph. The eight-speed auto and four-wheel drive remain to transmit this power to the tarmac.
The Speed sits lower than the standard Continental on unique 21-inch alloy wheels. Uprated suspension and steering also feature, although Bentley has not released specific details of the changes.
Exterior modifications that differentiate the Speed include a 'dark-tinted' front grille and air intakes and a 'rifled' finish to the tailpipes.
Inside, the Mulliner Driving Specification is standard. This package made its debut on the Mulsanne earlier this year and features diamond-quilted leather, knurled ventilation controls, drilled alloy pedals and Mulliner sill plates.
The Speed is an important car for Bentley, particularly in the emerging luxury markets. Bentley sales in China were up 84.9 per cent in the first quarter of 2012 over 2011 and 82.6 per cent in the Middle East. The specification of the Speed would appear designed to appeal to these customers.
Following its Goodwood debut, deliveries of the Continental GT Speed will start in the autumn. Exact prices are yet to be announced, but given that the regular W12 will set you back £136,710, expect to pay more than £150,000 to secure a Speed.