Bentley Bentayga

Step inside the Bentayga and you’d be greeted with one of the most, if not the most, luxurious crossover SUV cabin. The dashboard is sleek and very organized. The analog-digital cluster with color LCD display is drowned out by the bespoke multi-function, leather-wrapped steering wheel with a prominent Bentley insignia. At the center of the dashboard is an organized instrument cluster with round knobs and AC vents that surrounds the touchscreen infotainment display. Doors and trims are covered in soft-touch, leather with seam design matched with polished hardwood accent that calls to attention the craftsmanship and artisanship that goes into creating such a luxurious space. Seats are all wrapped in leather and carry the Bentley insignia. The Bentayga is a standard 5-seater SUV but can be made into four by opting two captain chairs at the seat or into seven by adding a third row.

Though the Bentayga is the first crossover SUV ever added to Bentley’s luxury portfolio, it still carries with it the classic, familiar look of a Bentley. That well-known recognizable silhouette starts at the robust front bumper with a center crease that leads to the Bentley badge and side creases that highlights the round couple headlights with cut crystal design. At the center is a robust mesh grille that shares the same mesh design to the lower bumper and air intakes. On the sides are B-shaped wing vents with the same mesh design and chrome highlights and aerodynamic creases and curve that highlights the rear fenders with a narrow chrome strip at the lower part for accent. At the back are a massive spoiler, angular taillights, and dual exhaust tailpipes. On top are a pair of roof rails, shark fin antenna, and sunroof. This sole ‘luxury’ crossover SUV in the market measures 5,140 mm long, 2,224 mm wide, 1,742 mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2,995 mm. It rides on a set of 22-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The Bentley Bentayga was not conceived solely for the riding pleasure of its passengers. In fact, driving this luxury SUV is very immersive and enjoyable. The British car brand combined technology, luxury, and power that gives the driver control and total confidence be it on paved roads or off-road situations with its all-wheel technology. The grip is excellent and has a surprisingly high cornering speed. Furthermore, the Drive Dynamics Control system allows the driver to choose between Comfort, Sport, Custom, and Bentley mode to complement the drive.

And though it can navigate through rough terrain, It will be very unwise to damage its impeccable paint job and alloys. In terms of riding comfort, no question ask, is one of the best. The Bentayga’s adaptive air suspension and active anti-roll control systems ensure a smooth and cushioned ride with minimal body rolls. Front passengers have ample legroom and headroom. Rear seats, not as much but still no claustrophobic effect. The bench actually has a foldable armrest in the middle so two passengers can sit comfortably at the rear. Moreover, the seats are plush and cushioned with enough firmness so passengers can enjoy the smooth ride in the utmost luxury. Besides, if Bentley is good enough for the queen, it surely will work for us common folks.

Though the Bentley Bentayga is offered locally in several engine options to include a hybrid and diesel engine, the Bentayga model is powered by a 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged Direct Injection W12 petrol engine that can deliver a staggering 608 PS of power at 5,000 – 6,000 rpm and 900 Nm of peak torque at 1,350 rpm. It has a maximum speed of 187 mph or 301 kmph and can accelerate from zero – 100 kmph in just 4.1 seconds. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Bentayga has a driving range of 17 l/ 100km for city driving, 12 l/ 100km for highway driving, and a combined driving range of 15 l/100 km. The Euro 6 and US LEV II emission standards compliant engine has a carbon dioxide emission of 296 g/ km.

Apart from setting new standards in luxury all-wheel-drive technology, this very English marque comes packed with tons of safety, driver assist, and convenient features to make this Bentley crossover SUV, the ultimate family car. Modern tech features include heads up display, built-in camera, night vision, blind spot assist and traffic sign recognition, reverse traffic warning, park assist, hands-free tailgate, pedestrian warning, and other sensor-based driver assistance technologies just to name a few. All these driver assistance systems are born out of Bentley’s desire for ‘intelligent functionality’ that are seamlessly embedded in the design to enhance riding safety and perfect the driver experience.

If you have the cash for it, the Bentley Bentayga is above what you’d expect for a crossover SUV. We cannot recommend it highly enough for crossover shoppers looking for the ultimate super-luxury SUV. Though this is their first offering for this vehicle segment, it looks and feels like a true Bentley. But better as the Bentayga can perform extremely well even on off-road adventures. As the British marque puts it, the Bentayga is not an SUV, it’s a Bentley.