Bentley Bentayga Speed Ditches Hybrid for V8 Power

Bentley Bentayga Speed: The V8 Roars Back, But Does It Still Reign Supreme?

Bentley’s ultra-luxury SUV, the Bentayga Speed, is back. But this time, it’s not going for the latest hybrid tech. Instead, it’s embracing a powerful, traditional V8 engine. This might sound like a step backward, but Bentley says it’s a move to keep the Speed focused on pure performance and a lighter feel. We got behind the wheel to see if this V8-powered beast still holds its ground against fierce competition.

Performance: More Power, Less Cylinders

The biggest change for the Bentayga Speed is under the hood. Gone is the massive W12 engine, replaced by a potent 4.0-liter V8. Now, you might think downsizing means less power, but Bentley has actually squeezed out more horses. This V8 pumps out a stout 650 horsepower, which is 15 more than the old W12. Torque sees a slight dip, coming in at 850 Nm compared to the W12’s 900 Nm, but the overall package is actually a bit lighter.

This weight saving, combined with the V8’s grunt, makes the Bentayga Speed impressively quick. Bentley claims it’s faster than the old W12 model, and our tests back this up. It rockets from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.46 seconds, thanks to the new launch control system. While its quarter-mile time of 11.8 seconds is the same as the previous model, that initial burst of speed is truly astonishing for such a large SUV.

The braking performance is equally impressive. The optional carbon-ceramic brakes, a pricey £10,000 upgrade, bring the hefty SUV to a halt from 60 mph in just 31 meters. That’s like dropping anchor, providing immense confidence when you need to slow down in a hurry.

Handling: A Heavyweight Dancer

Despite weighing in at over 2,450 kg, the Bentayga Speed handles remarkably well. Bentley’s engineering team has worked wonders to keep this SUV feeling agile. Features like active anti-roll bars help keep the body flat through corners, reducing lean. Standard rear-wheel steering also plays a crucial role, making the SUV feel more nimble at speed and more maneuverable in tight spaces.

Switching to Sport mode stiffens the suspension by 15%, making the car feel even more responsive. It’s a thrilling experience, though it doesn’t quite match the outright handling prowess of rivals like the Aston Martin DBX707, which is arguably the benchmark for performance SUVs. Bentley even reconfigured the stability control to allow for some drifting, though we found it difficult to get the car to power oversteer as expected.

Interior: A Masterclass in Luxury (with a few quirks)

Step inside the Bentayga Speed, and you’re immediately enveloped in Bentley’s signature luxury. The craftsmanship is exceptional, with exquisite wood, leather, and Alcantara finishes. Every surface feels premium, and the attention to detail is superb, with not a stitch out of place.

The infotainment system is user-friendly, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. What’s particularly welcome are the physical buttons for climate control, which feel satisfyingly tactile. The digital dials are sharp and look like traditional analog gauges, a nice blend of modern tech and classic design. Practicality isn’t forgotten either, with generous door bins, charging ports, and a decent glove box.

However, the interior isn’t without its talking points. The chosen color scheme, a mix of wood and vibrant yellow and green accents, is certainly bold. While some might love its unique character, it could be divisive. The indicator stalks feel a bit too similar to Audi’s, a minor letdown in an otherwise flawless cabin. Speaker grilles are also a bit sharp, posing a minor safety concern.

Rear Seat Comfort and Practicality

Passengers in the back are treated to the same high-quality materials as those in the front. There’s ample legroom and headroom, even for taller individuals. While a long-wheelbase version exists, the standard car offers plenty of space for three across the rear bench, thanks to its width and deep seats.

The rear passengers have access to climate controls via a small remote, seat heating and cooling, and electric blinds for privacy. The ride quality is exceptional, with acoustic glass and air suspension creating a serene cabin environment. The Bentayga Speed also boasts the largest boot of any Bentley, offering 484 liters of space, which is very practical for luggage.

Value and Verdict

Here’s where things get interesting. The Bentley Bentayga Speed starts at just over £170,000. However, the car we tested, loaded with options, tipped the scales at a staggering £300,000. That’s a significant sum, even for a Bentley.

The question is, does it justify the price? While the Bentayga Speed is an incredibly accomplished and luxurious SUV, it faces stiff competition. If outright handling is your priority, the Aston Martin DBX707 might be a better choice. For a more exotic engine note, the Ferrari Purosangue beckons. And for ultimate opulence, a Rolls-Royce Cullinan is hard to beat. The Lamborghini Urus offers more in-your-face drama.

The Bentayga Speed, with its V8 engine and refined interior, occupies a unique space. It’s a truly brilliant car, offering immense performance and comfort. However, it doesn’t necessarily excel in any single area quite like its most direct rivals. For those seeking a blend of Bentley’s unparalleled luxury with potent V8 performance and SUV practicality, the Bentayga Speed is a compelling, albeit very expensive, option. It’s a car that prioritizes a balanced, powerful driving experience over the absolute extremes of performance or luxury offered by its peers.

Who is it for?

The target buyer is someone who appreciates Bentley’s heritage and craftsmanship but desires the added practicality and elevated driving position of an SUV. They want effortless speed, supreme comfort, and a cabin that screams exclusivity. They are likely individuals who might also consider a high-end Range Rover or a Porsche Cayenne Turbo S but want the ultimate statement of British luxury.

Key Specs:

• Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8
• Horsepower: 650 hp
• Torque: 850 Nm
• 0-60 mph: 3.46 seconds
• Top Speed: (Not explicitly stated, but typically over 190 mph for Speed models)
• Starting Price: Approx. £170,000
• As Tested Price: Approx. £300,000

Source: You won’t believe the options on this £300k BENTLEY! (YouTube)