Bentley Bentayga Hybrid The Bentayga Hybrid was both the first-ever plug-in hybrid Bentley and the first step in the company’s ‘Beyond 100’ strategy heralding the future electrification of the entire Bentley range. It was, incidentally, the first Bentley to be part-powered by a V6 petrol engine. At launch it was...
Bentley Bentayga
2015 - Present
Like so many other premium and exotic automakers, Bentley has brought their A-game to the SUV segment, looking to establish its dominance in this competitive and highly lucrative market. The Bentayga is a midsize SUV which has become the marque’s best seller since it was made available in the 2016 model year. Since its launch, the Bentayga has seen a bunch of updates and new variants, powertrains and options launched, including a number of fancy "collections".
Overview / Model & Variant List / Models In-Depth / Image Gallery / More Updates
Overview
The Bentley Bentayga, introduced in 2015, marked Bentley's entry into the luxury SUV market, setting new standards for luxury, performance, and exclusivity in the segment. It was built on the Volkswagen Group's MLB platform, shared with the Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne, and Lamborghini Urus, but the Bentayga distinguished itself with unparalleled luxury, bespoke customization options, and powerful engine choices. Over the years, the Bentayga has received updates and new variants to keep it at the forefront of luxury SUVs.
At its launch, the Bentayga was powered by a 6.0-liter W12 engine, producing 600 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful and fastest SUVs available, with a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h). It featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive. The interior set new standards for luxury with handcrafted leather, wood, and metal finishes, and advanced technology for comfort, entertainment, and driver assistance.
Over time, Bentley expanded the Bentayga range with new engines, updated designs, and enhanced features to cater to a broader audience while improving performance, luxury, and environmental sustainability.
Bentayga Diesel (2016): The first diesel model in Bentley's history, powered by a 4.0-liter V8 diesel engine, offered impressive torque and efficiency.
Bentayga V8 (2018): Introduced a new 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine, providing a dynamic driving experience with reduced weight and improved fuel efficiency compared to the W12.
Bentayga Hybrid (2019): Bentley's first plug-in hybrid model combined a V6 petrol engine with an electric motor, emphasizing sustainability without compromising luxury or performance.
Bentayga Speed (2019): With a more powerful version of the W12 engine, the Bentayga Speed became the world's fastest SUV at its launch, featuring unique design elements and performance enhancements.
The Bentayga received a significant update in 2020 with a refreshed exterior design, more rear legroom, a new infotainment system, and improved connectivity features. The facelift aligned the Bentayga's design more closely with other models in the Bentley range, like the Continental GT and Flying Spur.
Since its launch, the Bentley Bentayga has been praised for setting new benchmarks in the luxury SUV market. Reviewers have consistently lauded its luxurious interior, bespoke customization options, and driving performance. The W12 version, in particular, has been noted for its extraordinary power and smoothness, while the V8 variants are appreciated for their sportier dynamics and efficiency. The Bentayga Speed received acclaim for its combination of high performance and luxury, unmatched by most competitors.
Critics have also appreciated the Bentayga's off-road capabilities, which, despite its luxurious demeanor, allow for genuine all-terrain versatility. The introduction of the Hybrid model has been seen as a positive step towards sustainability, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers seeking luxury without compromise.
Bentayga Basics
Production: 2015 - Present
Model Years: 2016 - Present
Body style: 5-Door SUV
Engine: 4.0L Twin Turbo V8
Engine: 6.0L Twin Turbo W12
Engine: Plugin Hybrid
Engine: 3.0L Turbo Diesel
Transmission: 8-speed auto
The Updates (So Far)
2016 (First Generation)
Praised for its power, luxury, and comfortable ride, but noted downsides included high price tag, fuel economy, and large size.
2020 (Mid-cycle Refresh)
Improved infotainment system, wider engine options including the hybrid, and refreshed design received positive feedback, but fuel economy and price remained concerns.
2023 (Current Generation)
Hybrid option gains a plug-in capability, further improving fuel efficiency, while overall refinements continue. Reviews commend the wider engine choices, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride, but still mention the high price tag and size.
"For those who prioritize comfort and refinement above all else, the Bentayga is a compelling choice. But if you're looking for a more engaging driving experience, there are better options available.
Kelley Blue Book
Bentley Bentayga Models & Derivatives
Craftsmanship, comfort or sheer exhilaration, when it comes to the Bentayga, Bentley has given us lots of options. You can get the regular sized SUV or an extended wheelbase that boosts rear legroom significantly, the Bentayga EWB. Within the two sizes, there are several variants. In terms of engines, the base model features a 4.0L V8, while the new hybrid combines a 3.0L V6 engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency while still providing 443 horsepower. Bentley has already created several "collections".
Bentley Bentayga S
Bold styling meets thrilling performance in a Bentayga designed to stand out. A sportier variant with the same V8 engine but tuned for sharper handling and quicker acceleration. It offers thrilling driving dynamics without compromising on comfort and opulence. It gets blacked-out exterior elements, larger alloy wheels, and a more aggressive front bumper differentiate it from the standard Bentayga. It also gets a better sports mode, upgraded brakes and an optional carbon fiber package that looks awesome. The twin-turbo V8 delivers 542 horsepower and get the car from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds.
Bentley Bentayga Azure
Exquisite craftsmanship and innovative technology for an inspiring travelling experience. The Bentley Bentayga Azure blends timeless elegance with contemporary luxury, offering a captivating experience for those seeking a spacious and opulent SUV. Available with either a 4.0L V8 or a hybrid powertrain, delivering ample power and refined performance. Distinctive Azure styling includes chrome exterior accents, 22-inch wheels, and illuminated door handles. Diamond-quilted leather seats offer luxurious comfort and visual appeal. While not as customizable as the Mulliner, the Azure offers exceptional value for its luxurious features and performance.
Bentley Bentayga A
Exquisite craftsmanship and innovative technology for an inspiring travelling experience. Powered by your choice of either a 4.0 litre V8 engine or an advanced 3.0 litre V6 hybrid powertrain, the Bentayga A is designed to take the luxury and prestige of the standard Bentayga to another level, offering extraordinary comfort and craftsmanship. With unique detailing inside and out, the Bentayga A* conveys an immediate sense of status, from the moment you encounter it for the first time.
Bentley Bentayga
Luxury, performance and go-anywhere capability, in perfect balance. The Bentayga represents a unique balance of luxurious craftsmanship, exhilarating performance and all-round versatility. Available with a choice of a 4.0 litre Bentley V8 petrol engine or a hybrid pairing a 3.0 litre petrol engine with a powerful electric motor, it is a truly remarkable SUV. Bentley’s Bentayga luxury SUV got it’s first update since launching in 2016, which includes a design refresh, updated tech and new equipment. With active all-wheel drive and a choice of two powertrains – a thrilling 4.0 litre Bentley V8 with a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h) or a 3.0 litre hybrid that can reach 158 mph (254 km/h).
Bentley Bentayga EWB Mulliner
The breathtaking pinnacle of SUV luxury, designed to set new standards in automotive comfort and craftsmanship. The Bentley Bentayga EWB Mulliner is the ultimate expression of opulence and bespoke craftsmanship within the Bentayga lineup. Offers 180mm more space in the rear, translating to unparalleled legroom and comfort for passengers. Allows for extensive personalization, including unique interior finishes, materials, stitching, and even marquetry inlays. Available with either a 542 horsepower V8 or a 626 horsepower W12 engine, both delivering effortless performance without compromising comfort.
Bentley Bentayga EWB Azure
Where elegant, inspiring craftsmanship meets technology that takes wellbeing to new heights. A luxury-focused variant of the EWB with additional features and amenities. The Bentley Bentayga EWB Azure sits in the sweet spot between the luxurious Bentley Bentayga EWB and the exclusive, bespoke Bentayga EWB Mulliner. Diamond-quilted leather seats, unique stitching, illuminated door handles, and Mulliner treadplates create a luxurious ambiance. Features a state-of-the-art infotainment system, driver assistance features, and customizable ambient lighting. Available with a 542 horsepower V8 or a 626 horsepower W12 engine, delivering smooth and effortless performance.
Bentley Bentayga EWB A
Combine extra space with enhanced luxury, elevated craftsmanship and a heightened level of comfort. The Bentley Bentayga EWB A falls right between the Bentley Bentayga EWB and the EWB Azure in terms of features and price point. The 4.0L V8 engine delivers 550 horsepower and 770 Nm of torque for powerful yet refined driving. Include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and night vision for added safety and comfort. Positions itself between the more basic EWB and the feature-rich EWB Azure, offering a compelling value proposition for those seeking a balance of luxury and technology.
Bentley Bentayga EWB
The definitive luxury SUV, with unprecedented space for passengers to relax and appreciate new levels of comfort. An extended-wheelbase version offering increased legroom and comfort for rear passengers, available with V8 and Hybrid powertrains. This serves as the entry point for the extended wheelbase version, starting around $222,000. It comes equipped with a powerful 4.0L V8 engine delivering 550 horsepower, luxurious interior appointments like diamond-quilted leather seats and advanced technology features like a state-of-the-art infotainment system and driver assistance suite.
Our Favorite Bentley Bentayga Images
"The Bentayga is a rolling advertisement for Bentley's expertise in luxury and craftsmanship. It's an indulgence, but for those who can afford it, it's a truly special vehicle."
Autoblog
