The W12 engine has become something of a trademark for Bentley in the 21st century. For many years, Bentleys were essentially just badge-engineered Rolls-Royces, while both companies were owned by the aircraft maker Vickers. But VW group took control of Bentley in 1998—BMW got Rolls-Royce—and it was time for something fresh.

I had the chance to drive a quick couple of laps at a racetrack near Barcelona, Spain in the prototype and nothing about the car surprised but for the light and delicate steering. By all rights, it should not feel so supple and accurate.

One rapid romp in this V-8 Hybrid Bentley, and you’ll forget all about the late, lamented, overly complex 12-cylinder engine.

As a result, Bentley claim that the new Continental GT is more comfortable, better balanced and less snappy when pushing on. The outright ability hasn’t been transformed, yet it should be easier to exploit the limits of what this 2.5-tonne GT car can do.

The Bentley Blower Junior EV is an OEM-sanctioned 85 percent replica built by England's Little Car Company. Power comes from a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle. In the U.K., the Blower Junior is classified as a quadricycle, and to adhere to those regulations, output is limited to 20 hp.

Combined, the 4.0-litre V8 and electric motor make a total of 771bhp and 738lb ft, or the car can drive on full electric alone (at 188bhp) for more than 50 miles. The powertrain drives all four wheels, heavily rear-biased, through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

We drove the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed prototypes at the 2.6-mile, 11-turn Parcmotor Castellolí race circuit near Barcelona. For four laps. In the rain. The Bentley's performance made it worth the trip.