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We've had plenty of time to get familiar with Bentley's products over the past few years, and even though a Speed version of the GTC bordered on a foregone conclusion, we were still very happy to see it gracing the automaker's stand this afternoon. Perhaps we're just getting caught up in Michigan's gray winter weather, but any reminder of sunny, warm days at speed are more than welcome.

Like other Speed-spec Continentals, the GTC Speed gives only subtle clues to its 600-horsepower W12. Up front, there's an updated front end with a more sinister (and slightly more upright) front grille, along with a more assertive air dam.

Even static on Bentley's hardwood, it's easy to see that the GTC Speed benefits from a lowered ride height that gives away the car's tighter suspension, as do its wider wheels and tires (which also help conceal gigantic carbon-ceramic brakes if they are so specified).

Sixty mph arrives in just 4.5 seconds, and if there's a more graceful way to muss your coif at 195 mph, we have yet to find it. For those seeking out the mythical double ton on the speedometer, however, you'll have to close the roof.