If it seems like only yesterday that luxury automakers started rolling out sport utility vehicles, you’ll likely be surprised to learn that Bentley is introducing the second generation of its Bentayga, or that Bentley has produced more than 20,000 examples of its first-generation SUV.
The launch features the Betayga V8 model, but Bentley says a Hybrid version and a performance-oriented Speed are coming. The Speed version will be powered by a 6.0-liter W12 engine.
The new Betayga has redesigned front and rear sections, with styling based on the design DNA of the latest Continental GT and the new Flying Spur. The SUV also has an updated interior with new seats and more rear-seat legroom. Also new is a 10.9-inch infotainment screen with “super high-resolution graphics” and “dramatically increased” connectivity, and with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
New as well, not only for Betayga but for Bentley, is dart-tint diamond-brushed aluminum-finish trim.
The Betayga V8 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter engine that produces 542 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque.
“From the moment of launch nearly five years ago, the Bentayga has been the very definition of the luxury SUV,” said Adrian Hallmark, Bentley Motors chairman and chief executive. “Like the Continental GT, the Bentayga created an entirely new part of the market, and since we set the benchmark many others have joined the sector, but no other car can offer a breadth of ability to rival the Bentayga.
“With the new Bentayga, we’re repositioning the pinnacle of the luxury SUV segment to be even higher, even further away from the competition. We’ve listened to our customers and made improvements to the areas most important to them, and the new Bentayga is a thoroughly modern and beautiful extension of the original car’s abilities and achievements.”
The Bentayga also brought new customers to the Bentley brand. The company noted that 70 percent of those buying the SUV were buying their first Bentley.
The company added that the first-generation Bentayga has been the fastest SUV with a top speed of 190 mph and also holds the SUV record in the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb.
I miss the days when cars looked different from each other, and people liked it that way. I liked it that way.
Amen!