Roaring to perfection

A poignant moment for enthusiasts of the esteemed British firm as Bentley bids farewell to its iconic W12 engine, first introduced in 2003. By April 2024, the Crewe plant will end production of its thermal block to focus on electrifying its fleet. To celebrate this retirement, the manufacturer – known for its luxurious vehicles – unveils a special limited edition: the Speed Edition 12. Only 120 copies will be produced on the Continental GT sedans, Continental GT convertibles, Flying Spur and Speed Bentayga.

Experience the epitome of exclusivity with the coveted Edition 12 stamp

The luxury brand has not skimped on aesthetics, elevating attention to detail to its pinnacle. Like those silver brake calipers on 22-inch black-painted alloy wheels; this paint called Opalite – a light gray-green iridescent effect – available as an option; or even these Speed Edition 12 chrome inscriptions which proudly adorn the rear pillar of the Bentayga and Flying Spur models, as well as the wing of the Continental GT and convertible versions. The engine plate is also numbered.

Custom designed by Mulliner craftsmen, the interior is redesigned but remains true to Bentley's image, which leans on excellence and elegance. The Edition 12 embroidered leather seats, whose upper part is topstitched and quilted in a shade of gray, add a touch of elegance. Just like the Grand Black dashboard, engraved with the ignition sequence of the W12 engine and an inlaid badge... Speed Edition 12, of course! Even the air vents have the number 12, machined into the structure. In addition to these new elements, all models boast the optional Speed-favored colors: Brunel blue, Cricketball red, Linen, Orange, associated with the main color of Beluga black... In addition, the wood veneer sports a super-shiny black finish.

A magnificent triumph of engineering

Does this limited version continue to astonish both connoisseurs and regulars? The Bentley Speed Edition 12 features a W12, pushed to 659 horsepower, going up to 5,000 to 6,000 rpm, for 900 Nm of torque. A sufficiently powerful engine, which propels the car up to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. The driving experience is incomparable on the road and without artifice. A Bentley Dynamic Ride anti-roll system and an electronic limited-slip differential both provide perfect grip, especially in tight corners and at high speeds.

Combining luxury, quality and reliability, the Bentley Speed Edition 12 definitively anchors the aura of the famous engine of a past... which is still present.