Even though it has a history spanning almost a century, and some of its earlier models were nicknamed by Ettore Bugatti as "the world’s fastest lorries," Bentley 
has never manufactured an SUV. Its Continental GT lineup is almost exclusively all-wheel-drive, but far from meeting the criteria for being called an SUV. Those three letters have actually given nightmares to traditional Bentley enthusiasts since 2015, when Bentley officially announced that it will launch a full-size SUV called theBentayga by the end of the year. With the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show just around the corner, the Bentayga is finally here to brag about being the fastest, most powerful, and most expensive SUV in the world.
has never manufactured an SUV. Its Continental GT lineup is almost exclusively all-wheel-drive, but far from meeting the criteria for being called an SUV. Those three letters have actually given nightmares to traditional Bentley enthusiasts since 2015, when Bentley officially announced that it will launch a full-size SUV called theBentayga by the end of the year. With the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show just around the corner, the Bentayga is finally here to brag about being the fastest, most powerful, and most expensive SUV in the world.
With the luxury carmaker being all about sales nowadays, and the Bentayga already amassing 4,000 pre-orders, the SUV is bound to be a sales success despite what the old-school Bentley fans want or believe. Based on the same platform as the new 2016 Audi Q7, the model is also set to become the first Bentley powered by a diesel engine and a hybrid drivetrain, but more on that as you read the following review.
the SUV is bound to be a sales success despite what the old-school Bentley fans want or believe. Based on the same platform as the new 2016 Audi Q7, the model is also set to become the first Bentley powered by a diesel engine and a hybrid drivetrain, but more on that as you read the following review.
Updated 09/09/2015: Bentley dropped the official details on the new Bentayga, with just a few days before the car’s official debut in Frankfurt.
SOURCE:TOPSPEED
Exterior
Despite being previewed by the 2012 Bentley EXP 9 F Concept at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show , the production Bentayga doesn’t feature a similar design, especially since the concept car’s front end was almost universally panned.
at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show , the production Bentayga doesn’t feature a similar design, especially since the concept car’s front end was almost universally panned.
Bentley decided to play it safe by transplanting the same design language found on the top-selling Continental GT, only modified to fit an SUV body.
Bentley decided to play it safe by transplanting the same design language found on the top-sellingContinental GT , only modified to fit an SUV body. So the front end features the traditional matrix engine grille and four round headlamps. Even the bumper is similar to the updated 2016 Continental GT, sporting the same large side intakes and a slimmer grille that covers the entire width of the apron below.
, only modified to fit an SUV body. So the front end features the traditional matrix engine grille and four round headlamps. Even the bumper is similar to the updated 2016 Continental GT, sporting the same large side intakes and a slimmer grille that covers the entire width of the apron below.
There are, of course, a few details that set it apart from the grand tourer. The grille is significantly larger, the engine hood is taller, while the outer set of headlamps are not only smaller then usual, but mimic the LED circles we saw on the 2015 Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 concept.
concept.
The side view is similar to the EXP 9 F Concept, which from some angles gave me aRange Rover vibe. Fitted with large wheels ranging from 20 to 22 inches and the iconic rear haunches found on other Bentley models, the Bentayga looks pretty imposing from the side, especially since the model’s dimensions are a bit bigger than the already-big2016 Audi Q7 .
vibe. Fitted with large wheels ranging from 20 to 22 inches and the iconic rear haunches found on other Bentley models, the Bentayga looks pretty imposing from the side, especially since the model’s dimensions are a bit bigger than the already-big2016 Audi Q7 .
Around back, the concept’s split tailgate was dropped for a more conventional lid. A pair of nearly oval-shaped taillights larger than the Continental’s and a sturdy bumper with big exhaust outlets round off the rear fascia’s design. To add a bit of sportiness to its massive SUV, Bentley also placed a large spoiler atop the tailgate.
split tailgate was dropped for a more conventional lid. A pair of nearly oval-shaped taillights larger than the Continental’s and a sturdy bumper with big exhaust outlets round off the rear fascia’s design. To add a bit of sportiness to its massive SUV, Bentley also placed a large spoiler atop the tailgate.
Several body panels are made from aluminum, including the rear haunch panel, which Bentley claims it’s the largest single-piece aluminum pressing in the industry. The extensive use of aluminum and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies enabled the company to save 520 pounds compared to a traditional body construction. With a panoramic glass roof offered as standard equipment, 60 percent of the Bentayga’s roof surface is made from glass panels.
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
| Wheelbase | 2,992 MM (117.8 Inches) |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 5,141 MM (202.4 Inches) |
| Width (across body) | 1,998 MM (78.7 Inches) |
| Width (inc. mirrors) | 2,223 MM (87.5 Inches) |
| Overall height | 1,742 MM (68.6 Inches) |
Interior
Much like the exterior, the Bentayga’s interior shares a lot with the Continental GT’s. Although many features have been updated to SUV specifics, including a wider center console and raised armrests in the door panels, the dashboard, the center stack, and even the steering wheel are similar to what we get in the Continental GT.
The roomy cabin is packed with handcrafted leather, wood, and metal trim, and equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen and a large dial in the center console that enables the drive to control most of the SUV's features.
The roomy cabin is packed with handcrafted leather, wood, and metal trim, and equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen and a large dial in the center console that enables the drive to control most of the SUV’s features, as well as drive modes and traction management.
The front seats are adjustable 22 ways and come with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The Bentayga can seat either four or five people, which means customers can choose between a traditional bench or two individual seats in the rear. In the four-seat version, the rear seats are adjustable 15 ways. A seven-seat version is also underway, but Bentley has yet to reveal details about it. Rear-seat entertainment includes a 10.2-inch Android tablet, while the audio system can be had in one of three configurations, including a range-topping 1,950-watt, 18-speaker combo by Naim.
The Bentayga is as customizable as they get, as clients will be able to choose between 15 shades of leather, seven wood veneers, and 15 carpet colors. Buyers looking for more options can take it to Mulliner, Bentley’s bespoke division.
Legroom and headroom seems generous both front and rear. Same goes for the trunk, but only as long as you don’t go for the optional event seat, a feature unique to the Bentayga. Tech includes predictive and adaptive cruise control, hill descent control, electronic night vision, and head-up display systems.
Drivetrain
Since Bentley wants to sell the Bentayga on the global market, a wide array of powerplants will be offered, but the biggest news is that the SUV will also feature a diesel engine — a first for the luxury carmaker.
Only one powerplant has been confirmed as of yet: a new W-12 for the range-topping model. Bentley describes this new mill as "the most technically advanced 12-cylinder in the world, delivering the best combination of power, torque and efficiency of any car in its class."
A wide array of powerplants will be offered, but the biggest news is that the SUV will also feature a diesel engine -- a first for the luxury carmaker.
The engine in question is the turbocharged W-12 TSI the folks over at Volkswagen unveiled in May 2015. The unit uses friction reduction, cylinder deactivation, and new fuel injection tech. Bentley said it will deliver 600 horsepower and 664 pound-feet (900Nm) of torque, with emissions below 250g/km.
unveiled in May 2015. The unit uses friction reduction, cylinder deactivation, and new fuel injection tech. Bentley said it will deliver 600 horsepower and 664 pound-feet (900Nm) of torque, with emissions below 250g/km.
Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the engine will take the Bentayga to 60 mph in four seconds flat, making it the quickest SUV in the world. What’s more, Bentley promises the luxury rig will hit a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h), which will also make the Bentayga the fastest SUV in the world. For reference, the 2016 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S tops out at "only" 176 mph.
tops out at "only" 176 mph.
Next in line should be various versions of the 4.0 TFSI engine used in the 2013 Bentley Continental GT V8, 2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S and 2014 Bentley Continental GT3-R. Sourced from Audi, the twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V-8 is good for anything between 450 horsepower in the 2016 Audi S6 up to 573 horsepower in the limited-edition Conti GT3-R.
2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S and 2014 Bentley Continental GT3-R. Sourced from Audi, the twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V-8 is good for anything between 450 horsepower in the 2016 Audi S6 up to 573 horsepower in the limited-edition Conti GT3-R.
On the diesel front, The Bentayga could offer a version of the twin-turbocharged, 4.1-liter, V-8 from the 2013 Porsche Cayenne S Diesel, since I find it unlikely that Bentley would lower itself to a diesel V-6. A hybrid variant and a higher performance Speed version are also on the table, but none of them will arrive sooner than 2016.
since I find it unlikely that Bentley would lower itself to a diesel V-6. A hybrid variant and a higher performance Speed version are also on the table, but none of them will arrive sooner than 2016.DRIVETRAIN SPECIFICATIONS
| Type | 6-litre twin-turbocharged W12 TSI |
|---|---|
| Max Power | 600 HP @ 5,250-6,000 RPM |
| Max Torque | 664 LB-FT @ 1,250-4,500 RPM |
| Transmission | ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox |
| Top speed | 187 mph / 301 km/h |
| 0-60 mph | 4.0 secs |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.1 secs |
| City (US mpg) | 14 |
| Highway (US mpg) | 20 |
| Combined (US mpg) | 16 |
| Emissions Controls | EU 6 and US LEV III |
Suspension
Like its sibling from Audi , Volkswagen , and Porsche , the Bentayga can actually go off road. Enabling it tackle rough terrain is a four-mode adjustable air suspension, the electronic active roll control, and the new Responsive Off-Road Setting. The latter allows the customer to select the appropriate vehicle settings for a wide range of off-road surfaces, while the Driver Information Panel displays information on pitch, roll, wheel articulation, steering angle, compass bearing, and altitude.
, Volkswagen , and Porsche , the Bentayga can actually go off road. Enabling it tackle rough terrain is a four-mode adjustable air suspension, the electronic active roll control, and the new Responsive Off-Road Setting. The latter allows the customer to select the appropriate vehicle settings for a wide range of off-road surfaces, while the Driver Information Panel displays information on pitch, roll, wheel articulation, steering angle, compass bearing, and altitude.Safety
The Bentayga comes with numerous safety features, including a wide range of airbags and state-of-the art tech and driving aids. Highlights include Traffic Sign Recognition, Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Around-View Monitor, Park Assist, and Electronic Night Vision, which uses infra-red technology to identify potential obstacles ahead.
Prices
Obviously, there is currently no word on pricing, but the Bentayga is likely to start at around $200,000 for a V-8 model, and quite a bit more than that for the W-12.
Conclusion
Love it or hate it, the Bentayga is bound to become a success story for Bentley, especially since it was launched exactly when the SUV boom is at an all-time high. Until Rolls-Royce brings its own 2018 Rolls-Royce SUV rival to the table, it will be the only ultra-luxury SUV out there. While I’m not entirely at ease with Bentley going this route simply for the sake of increased sales, the truth is that for a small carmaker there is always a dire need for a best-seller, and with the market demanding it, I don’t see too many problems with the Bentayga existing.
rival to the table, it will be the only ultra-luxury SUV out there. While I’m not entirely at ease with Bentley going this route simply for the sake of increased sales, the truth is that for a small carmaker there is always a dire need for a best-seller, and with the market demanding it, I don’t see too many problems with the Bentayga existing.Leaked Images
Update History
Updated 09/04/2015: Bentley announced the Bentayga’s top speed, a figure that makes it the fastest SUV in the world. Also, the Brits confirmed it will use a new W-12 engine. Find out more in our review.
Updated 08/12/2015: The upcoming 2016 Bentley Bentayga SUV just leaked in China as a 1:18 model car (see pic below). The real car will be unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September, but assuming the model is an "official" replica, it looks like our artist got it pretty well spot-on.
What do you think?
What do you think?
Updated 08/05/2015: Our artist came up with a new rendering after talking to well-informed internal sources. Check out our exclusive preview of the Bentayga below.
Updated 07/31/2015: Bentley unveiled a new video showing the off-roading capabilities of the upcoming Bentayga. Enjoy!
Updated 02/03/2013: Volkswagen Group has finally given the green light to the EXP 9 F super-luxury SUV unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The production version is internally known as the "Falcon " and is expected to be unveiled in the upcoming three years. The good news is that reports are pointing toward that the production version likely dropping the controversial design of the EXP 9F concept and will adopt a more conventional Bentley look. When put on sale in will be priced at about 200,000 euro - about $271,000 at the current exchange rates. Additionally, Bentley plans to sell about 5,000 units of its new SUV per year. (Automotive News)
" and is expected to be unveiled in the upcoming three years. The good news is that reports are pointing toward that the production version likely dropping the controversial design of the EXP 9F concept and will adopt a more conventional Bentley look. When put on sale in will be priced at about 200,000 euro - about $271,000 at the current exchange rates. Additionally, Bentley plans to sell about 5,000 units of its new SUV per year. (Automotive News)
Updated 07/23/2013: It’s official... No more speculation, no more reports and no more rumors; Bentley has officially given the green light to the yet-to-be-named SUV. Bentley claims that this will be the most luxurious and powerful SUV on the market. As expected, Bentley will not stray from the automaker’s current design language. Bentley has announced that its new SUV will hit showrooms in 2016, will be built in Crewe and will create over 1,000 new jobs.
Updated 1/8/2014: During an interview with Auto Express, Bentley Chairman Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber confirmed that the upcoming Bentley SUV will be available as a hybrid model with a plug-in system similar to what we saw in the Panamera S E-Hybrid . Schrieber also confirmed that the standard SUV, which already has over 2,000 pre-orders, will arrive in 2015 as a 2016 model, and that the the hybrid will arrive a year after the standard Bentley SUV. (Auto Express)
. Schrieber also confirmed that the standard SUV, which already has over 2,000 pre-orders, will arrive in 2015 as a 2016 model, and that the the hybrid will arrive a year after the standard Bentley SUV. (Auto Express)
Updated 3/19/2014: Bentley just released the first teaser image of its new SUV, which is rumored to be called the Falcon. You can see the image after the jump.
Teaser Images
Spy Shots
MARCH 10, 2015 - BENTLEY BENTAYGA STARTS DROPPING CAMOUFLAGE
FEBRUARY 23, 2015 - BENTLEY BENTAYGA CAUGHT TESTING IN THE SNOW
OCTOBER 07, 2014 - BENTLEY SUV TESTING CLOSE TO NURBURGRING
AUGUST 6, 2014 - BENTLEY SUV CAUGHT TESTING IN SOUTHERN EUROPE
JUNE 12, 2014 - BENTLEY SUV CAUGHT IN PRODUCTION FORM
MAY 21, 2014 - FIRST MULE SPOTTED ON THE ROAD
Press Release
Bentley Motors is today announcing full details of its pinnacle, sector-defining new model, the Bentayga.
The Bentley Bentayga combines unparalleled luxury with effortless performance and everyday usability.
With an all-new W12 powertrain, the Bentayga is the fastest, most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive SUV in the world. It offers a true Bentley driving experience and showcases innovative technology features.
Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Crewe, the Bentayga’s styling is pure Bentley. Sculptural with an elegant, timeless execution, it perfectly balances athleticism with confidence. From the four round LED headlamps and large matrix grille, to the distinctive power line and muscular haunches, the Bentley DNA is apparent throughout.
The Bentley Bentayga boasts the world’s finest automotive cabin, with unrivalled levels of precision. The detailing in metal, wood and leather – including meticulous tolerances between elements of trim – is the epitome of modern British luxury. This level of perfection is only achievable thanks to the exceptional craft and skill of Bentley’s colleagues in Crewe.
An all-new twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine is at the heart of the new Bentayga. The mighty 12-cylinder unit combines efficiency and refinement with ultra-luxurious levels of power and torque. With 608 PS (600 bhp / 447kW) and 900 Nm (663 lb. ft) delivering a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds) and a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h), the Bentayga is the world’s most powerful and fastest SUV.
Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, comments: “The Bentayga is truly the Bentley of SUVs. It redefines luxury in the SUV sector and offers a genuine Bentley experience in any environment, thanks to a combination of unparalleled attention to detail, go-anywhere ability and cutting-edge technology. With this extraordinary car we are looking forward to an exciting period of strong growth and sales success for Bentley. The Bentayga is the next step in our brand’s bold future.”
The Bentayga will make its full public debut at the IAA Frankfurt Show from 15 to 27 September. Customer deliveries commence in early 2016.
Further details about the Bentayga, including video interviews with key members of the design and development team, are available atwww.bentleymedia.com.
Innovative Features and Advanced Technologies
A suite of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and infotainment features designed to enhance safety, comfort and convenience make the Bentayga an innovative, advanced and connected luxury SUV.
It offers the widest range of on- and off-road drive settings of any vehicle via Bentley’s Drive Dynamics Mode and optional Responsive Off-Road Setting. Up to eight modes are available, allowing drivers, at the simple turn of a dial, to select the perfect dynamic set-up for any surface or road condition. This versatility is complemented by Bentley Dynamic Ride (electrically activated 48V active roll control) and Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS).
Responsive Off-Road Setting allows the customer to select the appropriate vehicle settings for a wide range of off-road surfaces, while the Driver Information Panel displays information on pitch, roll, wheel articulation, steering angle, compass bearing and altitude.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) including Stop & Go, Predictive ACC and Traffic Assist enables the driver to maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. Predictive ACC uses the navigation data, sensors and cameras to predict upcoming corners, city boundaries and speed-limit changes and can then modify the vehicle speed accordingly, improving both comfort and fuel economy.
In urban environments, there are a number of driver aids available on the Bentayga. These systems – such as Traffic Sign Recognition, which detects a wide variety of traffic signs and displays information to the driver; Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, which uses radar technology to detect crossing traffic when reversing out of a parking space; and Top View, a system which uses four cameras to display an overall picture of the vehicle’s surroundings – combine to enhance everyday usability.
The Bentayga is also available with Park Assist – a system that detects suitable parking spaces (both parallel and perpendicular) before autonomous steering takes over to support parking manoeuvres, even in narrow and tricky spaces.
Other innovative systems available on the Bentayga include Electronic Night Vision, which uses infra-red technology to identify potential obstacles ahead, and a Head-Up Display, which reduces driver distraction and increases safety.
The Bentayga’s all-new, cutting-edge 8” touch screen infotainment system boasts class-leading navigation technology, a 60GB hard drive, and a choice of up to 30 languages.
Rear seat passengers benefit from the introduction of the Bentley Entertainment Tablet – a removable 10.2” Android device with 4G, WiFi and Bluetooth for effortless, high-speed on-board connectivity.
Customers can choose between three different sound systems for the Bentayga: Bentley Standard Audio, Bentley Signature Audio and Naim for Bentley Premium Audio. The latter is the most powerful system in the segment, with 1,950 watts, a network of 18 speakers and super-tweeters for unrivalled recreation of the highest audio frequencies.
Sculptural Form, Sharp Lines and Elegant Execution
The Bentayga’s wheel arches, fenders and bonnet deliver a balance between sportiness and SUV presence. The ultra-sharp Bentley power line and muscular rear haunch display a taut tension in side profile, as part of the largest single-piece aluminium pressing in the automotive world. Trademark Bentley features such as the large matrix grille and B-shaped wing vents afford the Bentayga a modern, dynamic elegance.
The grille is flanked by four distinctive floating all-LED headlamps. The lights sit flush within the seamless superformed aluminium front fenders. Innovative design features, like the discreet headlamp washers contained within the outer lamp’s body-coloured centre, demonstrate remarkable attention to detail.
To emphasise the go-anywhere nature of the Bentayga, the Bentley design team have integrated a stylish skid plate into the lower section of the front bumper, just below the floating wing motif.
At the rear, within the segmented tail lights, a new ‘B’-shaped illumination graphic is incorporated that affords the Bentayga an instantly recognisable and striking night-time signature.
A combination of advanced design, innovative engineering and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies - including the use of lightweight aluminium - has enabled a total weight saving of 236kg compared to a traditional body construction.
As standard, the Bentayga comes with a panoramic glass roof. Making up almost 60 per cent of the total roof surface, the 1.35m2 glass feature is split into two panes. The front panel tilts and slides, and the whole glass surface can be obscured via an electric, full-length roller blind.
Either side of the glass roof are aluminium roof rails that combine two different finishes – a high-gloss black base and bright anodised top section.
A new range of bespoke Bentayga alloy wheels are available, ranging in size from 20” to 22”.
The World’s Finest Cabin, Handcrafted at the Home of Bentley
Step inside the new Bentayga and you find the finest automotive interior in the world, with handcrafted wood and leather throughout – engineered with precision to deliver absolute perfection.
The attention to detail in metal, wood and leather is the epitome of modern British luxury, and is only achievable thanks to the exceptional skill of the workforce in Crewe.
The Bentayga’s cockpit sets new standards for both luxury and precision, with meticulous tolerances between the exquisite veneered woods and metal elements. The dashboard takes the iconic Bentley ‘wing’ design as its inspiration, with the beautifully finished surfaces flowing gracefully from door to door over the top of the instrument binnacles, down under the centre console and back up around the passenger side fascia and foot well.
The hand-selected veneers form pure and elegant surfaces throughout the cabin, and each of the 15 pieces are shaped by Bentley’s artisans from a choice of seven different veneers, and finished with trademark Bentley attention to detail.
Highly polished, handcrafted metal elements adorn the dashboard, centre console and doors. Trademark Bentley knurling on the drive mode selector, gear knob, iconic bulls-eye vents and organ pulls adds sophistication and tactile refinement.
Sumptuous front seats, individually handcrafted in Crewe and featuring 22-way adjustment including adjustable cushion and backrest bolsters, provide superb support and comfort for all conditions. This cosseted feeling is further enhanced with a six-programme massage system, seat heating and ventilation.
Whether selected in four- or five-seat configuration, all of the leather seats in the Bentayga are available with contrast stitching and a quilted diamond design applied to the ‘shoulders’ and bolsters, echoing the design of a finely tailored British hunting jacket.
Bentley specialists individually select only the finest bull hides, all of which are sourced from cool European climates, naturally tanned and never over-printed.. Customers have the choice of 15 colours, in three duo-tone and one single mono-tone colour split.
The four-seat configuration makes the ultimate statement in design, comfort and luxury. The two individual rear seats adjust in 18 different ways and include massage and ventilation functions as well as footrests. The veneered rear console hides additional functionality such as cup holders, generous storage areas and USB charging sockets.
The opulent feeling is completed by the fixed back, dividing the interior cabin from the boot. Also trimmed in the signature diamond quilting and including a ski-hatch, it creates an enclosed rear cabin space that sets new standards in the SUV sector.
A full-length panoramic sunroof with acoustic interlays allows ample natural sunlight to highlight the surfaces and detailing.
Activate the hands-free tailgate and not only is a large, practical storage space revealed, but also another of the Bentayga’s unique features – the optional folding event seat. Ideal for those wishing to stop for a moment and enjoy a spectacular outdoor environment or pursuit, the innovative leather-trimmed folding seat matches exactly the style of the cabin seats and integrates seamlessly into the rear of the car with characteristic attention to detail.
All-New W12 – Efficiency with Unrivalled Power and Torque
At the heart of the Bentayga is the all-new Crewe-built W12 TSI engine. This 6.0-litre twin-turbo unit combines efficiency and refinement with the luxury of unrivalled power and torque.
It is the most technologically advanced 12-cylinder engine in the world and develops 600 bhp (608 PS / 447 kW) @ 6,000 rpm and 900 Nm (663 lb ft) from 1,250 rpm to 4,500 rpm. These mighty outputs result in equally impressive performance figures. The Bentayga is capable of dispatching the sprint to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds) on its way to a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h).
The new W12 uses both direct and indirect fuel injection. Switching seamlessly between the two technologies, the combination of these systems maximises refinement, delivers low particulate emissions and maximises power and torque delivery.
An impressive efficiency figure of 292 g/km CO2 is made possible in part thanks to Bentley’s Variable Displacement system, which shuts down half of the engine under defined conditions. Intake and exhaust valves, fuel injection and ignition are all shut down on defined cylinders, with the engine running as a six-cylinder for improved efficiency.
The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The transmission and four-wheel-drive system has been strengthened to handle the demands and high torque levels of off-road driving.
In Bentley’s advanced application of Start-Stop technology for the Bentayga, coasting is also available, as the engine rests not only when the vehicle is stationary but also at ‘near to stop’ speeds.
In 5th to 8th gear, when the driver releases the throttle (at motorway cruising speed, for example) the car will open the torque converter, dropping the engine to idle and simply allowing the car to roll or ‘sail’. When the throttle is reapplied, or the car starts going downhill and detects an increase in speed, the transmission is re-engaged.
The new W12 sees a 11.9% efficiency improvement compared to the existing powertrain. The Bentayga will also be available as diesel and hybrid variants in the future.
Genuine Luxury with Go-Anywhere Ability
Never before has a vehicle so coherently combined genuine luxury with go-anywhere driving ability.
The development programme for the Bentayga has been the most exhaustive in the Bentley brand’s history, ranging across five continents. From the dirt and gravel of South Africa and the dunes of Dubai, to the muddy fields of Cheshire, and from -30°C in the frozen North Cape to searing 50°C desert heat, the Bentayga’s ability to perform on any surface and even in the most extreme conditions has been proven.
The Bentayga has also driven more than 400 laps of the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit, as part of developing the dynamic performance of the chassis and fine-tuning the relevant control and stability systems. The unique features of the Nordschleife, including the high level of topographical change, variety of surface grip levels and wide range of cornering speeds, made it the perfect place to develop the fastest, most powerful SUV in the world.
The Bentayga introduces Bentley Dynamic Ride – the world’s first electric active roll control technology that utilises an unrivalled 48V system. Inherent in larger vehicles with a higher centre of gravity, this system instantly counteracts lateral rolling forces when cornering and ensures maximum tyre contact to deliver class-leading cabin stability, ride comfort and exceptional handling.
While conventional anti-roll bars present a compromise between body control and ride comfort, Bentley’s adaptive and reactive system provides variable torsional resistance, allowing the Bentayga to be both dynamically capable and comfortable for all occupants at all times. The pioneering use of a 48V system results in silent, instantaneous responses and sufficient power on hand to deal with all road surfaces.
Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) is also featured on the Bentayga. The new system improves feedback to the driver, while providing isolation from steering kick-back both on- and off-road. EPAS also features a variable rack ratio, permitting light and fast steering while manoeuvring at low speeds, as well as a more subdued response for excellent stability at high speeds.
The Bentayga offers class-leading ride comfort, steering feel and handling thanks to the partnership of a highly sophisticated chassis and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). In addition to advanced, multi-mode Traction Control (TCS), the Bentayga also features Hill Descent Control (HDC).
HDC automatically regulates the vehicle’s speed on steep declines, allowing the driver to concentrate fully on steering and obstacles ahead. It can be pre-set at speeds between two and 30 km/h (going in either direction) and works on gradients greater than five per cent.
As with all Bentleys, the Bentayga comes with multi-mode air suspension. The Bentayga driver has four different modes to choose from: High 2, High 1, Normal and Low. High 2, for example, can be manually selected when tackling more severe off-road surfaces. Customers can also lower the rear suspension via a switch in the boot, to ease loading and trailer hitching.
Bentley Personalisation Options and Mulliner Bespoke
The Bentayga redefines personalisation and bespoke luxury. Paint, leather, veneer and lifestyle options are unlimited and tailored to the individual.
The standard palette alone comprises 17 exterior paint colours, with up to 90 hues available in the extended range. There are also 15 luxurious carpet options, seven different handcrafted veneers and 15 choices of interior trim hide, which means that customers are able to specify their own choice of luxury finish. In addition, customers can choose between a new range of bespoke Bentayga alloy wheels, ranging in size from 20” to 22”.
Six lifestyle-orientated specification packages will be available from launch, including two styling packs. In addition to these options, the Bentayga is available with the widest range of lifestyle accessories ever offered by the Bentley brand. For example, customers with an interest in watersports may wish to specify the Load-Assist Tray and Wet Gear Stowage options.
As with all Bentleys, the Bentayga can also be handed over to the highly skilled and dedicated craftspeople at Mulliner, who will respond to bespoke customer requirements.
At launch, the Bentayga is available with an exquisite integrated Mulliner Hamper Set, complete with cooler, bespoke fine Linley china cutlery, crockery and crystal glass, and storage area for dry goods. For comfort in the great outdoors, sections of the hamper can be removed and used as seats.
A bespoke mechanical Mulliner Tourbillon by Breitling clock can also be specified. The most complex of watch mechanisms, the Mulliner Tourbillon is automatically wound periodically by a dedicated high-precision winding mechanism within the car. This masterpiece is machined in solid gold (customers can select from either rose or white gold), with a choice of either a mother-of-pearl or black ebony face and decorated with eight diamond indexes.
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