Bentley has introduced a third version of the Bentayga, a twin-turbocharged V8 that joins the petrol W12 and diesel derivative in its line-up of luxury SUVs.
The Bentayga uses Bentley’s latest generation 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine that produces 404kW and 770Nm.
For a 2.4-tonne vehicle, it’s quick enough to reach 100kph in 4.5 secs (with a top speed of 290 km/h), making it not quite as swift as the W12’s 4.1 seconds to 100kph, but it can outrun the slower diesel version.
Its performance is “fully customisable on demand by the driver through Bentley’s Drive Dynamics system, from limousine-like refinement to sporting precision” says the manufacturer. Up to eight modes (four on- and four off-road) are available, allowing drivers, at the simple turn of a dial, to select the perfect set-up for any surface or road condition.
If the sporty side appeals to you, you may want to select the optional carbon ceramic brakes, which Bentley proudly boasts is the “world’s largest front brake system”. The brake discs measure 440mm in diameter at the front and 370mm at the rear.
In addition to the many interior customisable options, Bentley has added ‘cricket ball leather’ for the first time in the Bentayga V8. The colour was ‘inspired by the traditional and instantly appealing deep chestnut hue of a new cricket ball.’
In the UK the new model costs £25 000 (about R409 000) less than the Bentayga W12, but at this point there is no word on whether this model, or the diesel version, will make its way to South Africa.