Bentley Continental GT S: Performance Evaluation
In the September/October 2026 issue of Car and Driver, the Bentley Continental GT S was rigorously evaluated for its acceleration and braking capabilities. This luxury vehicle demonstrated a unique blend of elegance and raw power, completing the 0–150–0 mph test in an impressive 24.7 seconds. The car's performance was notable for its rapid acceleration, reaching 150 mph in just 17.6 seconds, despite its considerable curb weight of 5530 pounds. However, its braking performance required 6.4 seconds and a distance of 710 feet to halt from 150 mph, indicating a longer stopping distance compared to some lighter counterparts.
The Continental GT S is equipped with a powerful 671 hp engine and specialized Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Elect tires, which undoubtedly played a crucial role in its ability to achieve such high speeds efficiently. The vehicle's base price is $296,150, with the as-tested price rising to $350,630. This review highlights the Bentley's distinct personality, emphasizing its capacity for both luxurious comfort and formidable speed, positioning it as a significant contender in the high-performance grand tourer segment.
Unveiling the Continental GT S Performance
The Bentley Continental GT S delivered a remarkable performance in the 0–150–0 mph evaluation, showcasing its unique blend of luxury and high-speed capability. With a total time of 24.7 seconds for the complete cycle, this grand tourer demonstrated an impressive ability to accelerate rapidly. Its powerful 671 horsepower engine propelled the vehicle to 150 mph in a mere 17.6 seconds, emphasizing its potent acceleration, especially for a car weighing 5530 pounds. This performance underscores Bentley's engineering prowess in combining significant mass with exhilarating speed.
During the intense examination, the Continental GT S exhibited a distinctive character, akin to a high-class athlete performing with unexpected ferocity. The process of engaging its full power, by activating Dynamic stability control and simultaneously pressing the brake and throttle to 5100 rpm before release, illustrated a sophisticated yet straightforward launch sequence. While its acceleration was swift and commanding, the braking phase from 150 mph took 6.4 seconds and covered 710 feet, indicating a need for substantial distance to come to a complete stop. This aspect highlights the challenges associated with bringing a heavy, high-speed vehicle to a halt, yet the car maintained its composure, reflecting its sophisticated design and specialized Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Elect tires.
Acceleration and Braking Dynamics
The Bentley Continental GT S impressed greatly with its acceleration dynamics, achieving 150 mph in just 17.6 seconds, a notable feat for a vehicle of its stature. This rapid increase in speed was powered by its robust 671 hp engine, allowing it to storm down the track with remarkable vigor. The car's ability to quickly reach such high velocities demonstrated its strong power-to-weight ratio, which, despite its substantial 5530-pound mass, translates to 8.2 pounds per horsepower, enabling swift progress.
Conversely, the braking performance of the Continental GT S, though effective, showcased the inherent challenges of stopping such a heavy and powerful machine. From 150 mph, the vehicle required 6.4 seconds and a considerable 710 feet to come to a complete standstill. This stopping distance, while on the longer side, was managed by 16.5-inch front and 15.0-inch rear vented disc brakes, complemented by the grip of its specialized Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Elect tires. The overall 0–150–0 mph time of 24.7 seconds positions the Continental GT S as a formidable contender in high-performance testing, where the blend of acceleration and braking capabilities defines a car's ultimate prowess. This balanced, albeit powerful, approach to high-speed grand touring emphasizes both the excitement of its thrust and the controlled efficacy of its deceleration.
