AUTONEWS

Bentley Bentayga Speed

The new Bentayga Speed ​​is the most powerful, dynamic and exciting Bentley SUV yet, with an even more dynamic chassis setup that also enables controlled drifting.

According to the press release, the Bentayga Speed ​​even surpasses its acclaimed W12-powered predecessor, delivering more power and performance along with the most dynamic chassis setup ever offered in a Bentayga.

At its heart is a new twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces 650 hp and 850 Nm of torque. This new powertrain is capable of accelerating Bentley's flagship SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, while the top speed is 310 km/h.

The Bentayga Speed ​​also has significant improvements in dynamic capabilities - with an improved SPORT chassis mode and a new ESC Dynamic setting that brings maximum driver involvement.

The new chassis and powerful engine confirm the Bentayga Speed’s position as the new pinnacle of performance for a luxury SUV.

The new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine delivers exceptional performance, with maximum power of 478 kW/650 PS and an acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds. These figures significantly exceed those of the Bentayga V8 S (4.4 seconds), as well as the record of 3.9 seconds set by the previous Bentayga Speed ​​with a W12 engine. Maximum torque of 850 Nm is delivered between 2,250-4,500 rpm, with the characteristic Bentley “torque plateau” providing the smooth wave of acceleration that is a Bentley performance constant.

The engine is not only more powerful than its predecessors – it is also more distinctive. As standard, the Bentayga Speed ​​is fitted with a sports exhaust system, which provides a rich, powerful engine sound that complements the energetic character of the highly reliable V8 engine and promotes a deep sense of driver engagement. This exhaust can be recognised externally by its twin elliptical tailpipes that emerge from the rear diffuser. For an even more exciting soundtrack, an optional titanium Akrapovič quad-pipe exhaust system emphasises the power, drama and potential of the V8 engine, with its audible expression of the performance that awaits you at the slightest touch of the throttle.

Of the three drive modes available to drivers of the new Bentayga Speed, two, COMFORT and BENTLEY, remain unchanged in calibration compared to other Bentayga models. However, SPORT mode has been significantly improved, delivering improved steering response, roadholding and driver connection, enhanced by a 15% increase in suspension stiffness. The enhanced SPORT mode allows the driver to fully exploit the power of the V8 engine when cornering and to experience exceptionally more agile torque vectoring capabilities.

For superior braking ability and driver engagement, there are also optional carbon ceramic brakes. Torque Vectoring enables sharper cornering and more power on the road when exiting corners – with improved driver confidence that goes hand in hand with added agility. Launch Control is also included in the ESC Dynamic programming.

The interior design reflects its unique focus on performance. Standard features include a Speed-specific driver information display, Speed ​​badging on the passenger side and sills, and a Speed ​​emblem on the seat top. The iconic Bentley air vents and central air vents can be finished in a dark shade, as well as standard chrome, all with leather-trimmed seats.

The Bentayga Speed ​​now features four-wheel steering. At low and medium speeds, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels to facilitate quick changes of direction, noticeably increasing the sense of agility and reducing the turning circle. Steering is sharper, and the proportional increase in steering feel gives the driver greater confidence. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels to improve stability. Together, new SPORT mode enhancements, optional carbon ceramic brakes, ESC Dynamic software and four-wheel steering set new levels of agility, roadholding and driver engagement. As the flagship of the performance range, the Bentayga Speed ​​simply recalibrates all expectations for handling, roadholding, acceleration and steering response for a luxury SUV.

Distinctive exterior features include dark painted bodywork, bright chrome Speed ​​badges on the leading edge of the front doors and 22-inch Speed ​​wheels in either dark or silver (the latter is a no-cost option). The unique Speed ​​headlamps have dark painted inserts and a dark painted surround, while the rear lights are grey, also with a dark painted surround. 23-inch Speed ​​wheels are optionally available when fitted with carbon ceramic brakes, and these come in a grey satin, black or black and light machined finish. Brake calipers in seven available colours are also available with the standard brakes and when the carbon ceramic brake option is selected. Another option offered exclusively for the Bentayga Speed ​​is the black Speed ​​roof, which is available in either gloss or satin, depending on the body finish chosen. The black roof, which incorporates the lower part of the tailgate spoiler, creates a strong, assertive visual effect.

The Bentley Bentayga Speed ​​offers an extraordinary range of capabilities, with COMFORT and BENTLEY modes offering the perfect blend of speed, refinement and relaxation for most driving conditions. However, selecting SPORT mode reveals a new, more visceral and exciting side to its character. By carefully refining the chassis and adopting the new High Powered 4.0 V8 engine, engineers have created the most powerful and dynamic Bentayga ever, without losing any of what makes a Bentley a Bentley.

UK prices start from £219,000.

Autonews