The world of the Ultra Luxus SUVs works in an almost-closed loop run from the Range Rover, Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga. With the updated BENTAYGA speed, Bentley has refined its flagship to a level that the rivals are difficult to reach – even without electrification.
It cannot be denied that the Bentley Bentayga is no longer freshly secured. Despite considerable revisions, the Crewe luxury crossing has been offered for sale for more than a decade. Nevertheless, it continues to offer an almost flawless mix of luxury, everyday usability, understatement and exclusivity – without sacrificing the driving dynamics. The latest update of the speed version marks the end of the legendary W12 engine, replaced by the well-known 4.0-liter twin turbo V8. In contrast to his corporate cousins and Lamborghini Urus SE and Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid TUT without electrical support. While the output increased from 635 to 650 hp, the maximum torque of 850 Nm is actually 50 Nm behind the charismatic W12 from the previous generation. The fact that this speed of 270,000 euros V8 is powered achieves 310 km/h and sprints of 0–100 km/h in 3.6 second faster than the 12-cylinder predecessor is not very important for most buyers. It is not just a few tenths of the symbolism of twelve cylinders that have been lost.
Nevertheless, the driving experience remains completely convincing. Even without a hybrid punch, the 5.14-meter Bentayga speed delivers its performance with the breathtaking power for which Bentley is known. For many, the figures for many are secondary the presence of owning the brand’s top SUV-a presence, which was made clear by 23-inch wheels, carbon details and aggressive body styling.
In addition to performance, what is really increasing the Bentayga is to coconve its ability to coconve passengers. The adaptive air suspension, the steering of the rear wheel and the loud sports emotion add the theater, but it is the hand -sewn leather seats with endless setting, ventilation and massage that leave a permanent impression. If a desired material or color combination is not offered, Bentley’s Mulliner department will make this possible.
Thanks to the excellent noise insulation, the long-distance comfort and the abundant space, especially in the long-wheel variant, the 2.5-ton Bentayga leads one of the best crossovers that can buy money. Even without hybrid systems or the W12 with plug-in competitors, the curb weight is still with clever damping, active tail diffs and special rubber work to mask them.
The owners tend to overlook a slightly outdated infotainment system, smaller than expected ads and the growing pressure of fresher rivals from Asia and the USA. Bentley’s original promise to become fully electrical by 2030 was revised quietly by 2035 – a pragmatic step on today’s volatile market. Before that, a new, fully electrical siblings for the Bentayga will arrive next year.
