Having seen this model from Bentley, we can agree with what most reviewers said that it was a classic company’s design with lots of premium stuff that makes it fit into the luxury segment. Well, that’s one way to say it, and Bentayga certainly has the traditional Bentley’s front end and some other recognizable features. However, let’s not forget a few revolutionary facts about this car that can blow our minds away. First and foremost: it has real diamonds! Not impressed yet? Okay, the manufacturer said this model is the fastest SUV on the planet with the top speed of 187 miles per hour. If you are still unimpressed, what about Bentayga being the most luxurious SUV in the history? Okay, we think this information is enough to impress anyone so let’s begin and discuss everything in detail because Bentayga is a remarkable example of excellent British engineering and design.
Why SUV?
Indeed, the decision to build an SUV came as an unexpected decision for some auto critics and experts. However, on the other hand, it makes perfect sense: customers who buy Bentley usually have a number of different vehicles (often, these are high-income individuals who have small auto collections) and prefer to drive SUV during winter period or in the fog and rain. However, Bentley does not have an SUV to offer to these customers. Therefore, a very lucrative segment and loyal customers might be lost. Now, when the company finally releases an SUV, it is fair to suggest that some of these people will be more than interested in having one.
Remember the concept SUV called EXP 9 Falcon that was shown several years ago at Geneva Motor Show by Bentley? A few words about it: the concept caused a lot of controversies because it had the most advanced features for SUVs at the time and an unusual design as for Bentley. Perhaps, EXP 9 Falcon was used by the company’s engineers to gather the feedback and construct the most efficient and advanced vehicle. As the result, Bentayga’s design has emerged.
2017 Bentley Bentayga Exterior Design
The front of Bentayga looks like a classic Bentley: mesh-covered grille, LED headlamps ringed in chrome, which are flanked by familiar oval cutouts. On the side, it becomes apparent that this Bentley is an SUV because it is very tall for a traditional company’s design (68.6 inches), especially when it is equipped with 22-inch wheels. According to Bentley’s statement, most of the sheet metal of the exterior is made of aluminum, and the rest of the elements are made from steel, including floor pan. The extensive use of aluminum in this model makes it the world’s largest single stamping. Moreover, the weight of Bentayga is comparably light and was estimated at 5400 pounds, which is 550 pounds lighter than the Mulsanne. At the rear, the tail lamps light up the letter B and this design element will be featured on the upcoming models of the company.
Interior Design
Inside the Bentayga’s cabin, each and every part highlights the luxury, efficiency, and comfort. A wide variety of wood panels, chrome components, and leather dash wings are the proof. The dashboard still uses the traditional elements such as physical gauges with real “needles”, but they are placed behind a solid glass instead of plastic that is utilized on many modern vehicles. The initial tests drives revealed that the designers of the company did a great job at sound proofing the cabin because the drivers did not hear a thing, even at off-road excursions. There are some impressive technology elements available in Bentayga that make it very attractive to younger customers; for example, the designers placed two removable 10.2-inch tablets in front of the rear seat (the infotainment system uses an 8.8-inch touchscreen display). Also, the model will be equipped with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspot function, premium sound system (up to 18 speakers), 4G LTE and 3D navigation. It is apparent that the passengers of Bentayga will be sufficiently entertained by the technology available inside.
The interior of Bentayga is highly customizable, which is what we expect from a luxury car maker like Bentley. Specifically, there are 15 colors available for the customers to use in the cabin, in three different two-tone layouts and even matched stitching. A number of distinct elements are remarkably HIGH; for example, there are 14 different colors to select even for the seatbelt finish. Therefore, Bentley provided a great number of options for interior space in terms of finishing, which is expected and desired by most customers of luxury cars. This way you can surely get perfect combination for yourself and be sure that it will be unique and different.
Safety
The list of the safety and high-tech features provided by Bentley in Bentayga includes predictive cruise control, head-up display, stop-and-go function (great for slow traffic), traffic-sign recognition, night vision, automatic parking system, lane changing assist, and pedestrian recognition. Also, the model is equipped with electric power steering, which greatly enhances driving safety by making it direct and weighty.
Powertrain
The engine of Bentayga is a real gem; we are getting a 6.0-liter V12 monster that is twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC unit, with direct fuel injection, capable of generating 600 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. It is coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting mode. The fastest SUV in the world (as announced by the manufacturer) can reach 60 miles in just 4.0 seconds and 100 miles per hour in just 9.3 seconds. The fuel economy was estimated at 14/20 mpg city/highway. You might expect to see far better acceleration results but have in mind that this is not a sports car and that it weighs about 5,400 pounds.
Trims and prices
There are two configurations available for customers of Bentayga: W12 and W12 First Edition, which cost $229,100 and $297,400 respectively. However, let’s not forget those numerous upgrades and customizations that could be purchased as well. For example, additional $6000 could be spent on extra cost paints, $11,000 on replacement of three-place rear seats on two individual executive chairs, and $7800 for the Touring Specification technology package of features.
Of course, the list does not stop there: the most expensive update which was promised at the beginning of the article is jewelry: the Breitling clock set atop the instrument board. It features eight diamonds and is available in two colors: rose gold and white. However, this element costs $160,000 and is made in three months by only a few craftsmen in the world so the customers who want it might have to wait for its production.
Without a doubt, if you want luxury and exclusivity this is a vehicle for you. Everything is on the highest level, from fit and finish to performances and customization options. If you have a deep pocket, you should test this SUV.
