Few are ever going to complain about the performance on offer from Bentley's standard 552bhp Continental GTC, but that hasn't stopped the Crewe firm adding a Speed model to the line-up. The new GTC Speed is introduced alongside a revised standard model, the go-faster Speed version boasting a healthier sounding 600bhp to give it a potential maximum speed of 200mph. That's up 5mph over the standard GTC. It's also faster to 62mph by 0.3 seconds, the Speed covering the benchmark sprint it just 4.8 seconds.

Those searching for the full wind in the hair Speed experience at the double-ton will be a touch disappointed, as Bentley states that, with the roof down, the GTC Speed only manages a 'paltry' 195mph. Instead of going for follicle challenging v-max assaults though GTC Speed drivers might have more fun enjoying the GTC's revised chassis.

Like the coupé and Flying Spur, the GTC's transformation to a Speed model includes a drop in the ride height as well as revised, higher thresholds on the car's ESP settings. With retuned steering and the availability of optional carbon-ceramic brakes, the GTC Speed is now a drop-top grand touring machine that's able to take in a few laps of the Nurburgring en-route to the Italian lakes or French Rivera.

Visually the Speed is identified by its lower stance, unique alloys, larger tailpipes, a boot lip spoiler and dark tint to the grilles on the air and radiator intakes up front. The front grille on both the Speed and regular GTC now sits more upright for the 2010 model year, while the headlamps are also highlighted with new chrome surrounds. Small changes then, which Bentley hopes will be enough to have buyers coming back to the showrooms in these tough economic times.

Those Bentley customers feeling the financial pinch might want to ignore the Speed model and opt for the standard £129,700 GTC, but really, if you're spending that much you might as well go the whole way and get the faster, sharper Speed at £146,100. Bentley is quick to point out that those prices are adjusted to the new 15% VAT level. That equates to a saving of around £3,700 on the Speed, which doesn't even come near to covering the cost of those fancy ceramic stoppers...

Kyle Fortune - 6 Jan 2009