The Ultimate Question: Can the V8 Turbo Bentley Bentayga Speed Deliver?
Imagine a powerful, sleek SUV that promises an exhilarating driving experience. That's the Bentley Bentayga, a car that has long been associated with luxury and performance. But here's where it gets intriguing: can a V8 engine match, or even surpass, the iconic W12's capabilities?
The Bentley Bentayga Speed, a recent addition to the brand's lineup, aims to answer this very question. With its introduction, Bentley has taken a bold step, opting for a V8 engine over the traditional W12. But does it live up to the expectations?
The All-Gas Revolution: Power Without Electric Assistance
In recent years, Bentley has focused on maximizing power from smaller engines, utilizing plug-in hybrid technology. This approach has resulted in an impressive 771 hp for the Continental and Flying Spur. However, when it came to updating the Bentayga, priced at a hefty $260,000 and upwards, Bentley surprised everyone by going with a twin-turbo V8, producing a substantial 641 hp. The real kicker? This V8 delivers more power than the W12, a remarkable feat.
What's more, the V8 engine offers an authentic, satisfying sound, providing the driver with the option to enjoy the gurgling feedback from the new exhaust system.
The Speed Experience: Smaller, Yet Mightier
Under the 'Speed' moniker, the Bentayga truly shines. It's not just about the engine; the vehicle sits on 23-inch wheels and boasts the largest brakes Bentley has ever fitted to a Bentayga. The Speed model also features a smaller frame, enhancing its muscular appearance and ensuring a taut, responsive feel.
Drive Modes: Unlocking the Bentayga's True Potential
The Bentayga Speed offers a unique driving experience through its various modes. Starting in B mode, a balanced blend of comfort and sportiness, the engine sound can be adjusted to suit the driver's preference. Comfort mode dials down the performance for a more relaxed drive, while Sport mode transforms the SUV into a true performance machine. The exhaust system comes alive in Sport mode, delivering a distinctive growl and a satisfying pop-and-gurgle when downshifting.
Off-Roading with Bentley: A Surprising Capability
With its powerful engine, muscular suspension, and all-wheel drive, the Bentayga is surprisingly capable of light off-roading. While it's not an extreme off-roader, it can handle dirt trails and rugged terrain, making it an ideal choice for those who want to venture off the beaten path in style. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to test this capability, and the Bentayga proved its mettle, navigating a 10-mile dirt trail with ease.
The Future of Bentayga: PHEV or Not?
Given the success of Bentley's super-powered PHEVs, which are outselling W12 engines, it's highly likely that the next generation of Bentayga will feature a PHEV option. Bentley already produces a six-cylinder turbo-powered hybrid, but the future seems to lie with the more powerful PHEV technology.
Design Evolution: A Hint at Things to Come
Visually, the Bentley Bentayga Speed has retained much of its familiar design language. However, subtle changes on other models, such as the Continental and Flying Spur, suggest that a new Bentayga may be on the horizon, further advancing Bentley's design and offering even more customization options for luxury car enthusiasts.
So, will the Bentayga Speed become a favorite among luxury SUV enthusiasts? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Bentley has once again raised the bar for performance and luxury.
