Bentley Motors has redefined the boundaries of performance in the luxury SUV segment with the launch of its most formidable Bentayga to date. The new Bentayga Speed, equipped with a newly developed 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, is now the fastest, most dynamically capable, and engaging model in the Bentayga family, surpassing even the previous W12-powered variant.
The powerplant at the heart of this flagship SUV delivers 650PS and 850Nm of torque, pushing the Bentayga Speed from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds. Its top speed reaches a formidable 310km/h, setting new performance benchmarks for Bentley’s high-riding grand tourer. The V8’s muscular powerband, delivered smoothly between 2,250 and 4,500 rpm, ensures a constant surge of acceleration, true to Bentley’s performance ethos.
Beyond its raw figures, this latest engine is engineered for character and acoustics. A standard sports exhaust system provides a rich and sonorous soundtrack, augmented by distinctive dual elliptical tailpipes. For those seeking even more auditory drama, the optional Titanium Akrapovič exhaust intensifies the aural experience, complete with quad tailpipes and a deeper, more aggressive note.
The dynamic credentials of the Bentayga Speed have also been significantly upgraded. While COMFORT and BENTLEY driving modes retain their characteristic smoothness and refinement, the SPORT setting has undergone substantial enhancements. Steering response is sharper, ride stiffness has been increased by 15 per cent, and overall driver feedback is notably more pronounced. These changes allow drivers to fully explore the engine’s capabilities through tighter cornering and improved agility, aided by brake torque vectoring.
Further elevating the SUV’s handling prowess, Bentley now offers optional carbon ceramic brakes—its most advanced braking system to date on the Bentayga. When paired with the new ESC Dynamic programme, available exclusively in SPORT mode, the system permits greater on-throttle oversteer and drifting capability, redefining what a luxury SUV can deliver in terms of driver engagement. For the first time in a Bentayga, Launch Control is also available, reinforcing its performance ambitions.
All-wheel steering is another first for the model, dramatically enhancing manoeuvrability and stability. At lower speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front, improving agility and tightening the turning circle. At high speeds, the rear wheels follow the front wheels’ direction, increasing composure and directional stability.
Design-wise, the Bentayga Speed communicates its intent with a striking visual identity. Exterior enhancements include dark tint brightware, unique Speed badging, and Speed-specific 22-inch wheels available in both dark tint and silver. Optional 23-inch wheels are also available when the vehicle is equipped with carbon ceramic brakes, and come in finishes such as grey satin, gloss black, or a dual-tone black and machined option. Painted brake calipers in seven colour options further personalise the vehicle’s appearance.
A bold black roof, offered in gloss or satin depending on the exterior finish, is another feature exclusive to the Bentayga Speed, lending it a commanding presence and emphasising its athletic character.
Inside, the Bentayga Speed’s cabin reflects its performance orientation. Speed branding adorns the digital driver display, fascia, treadplates, and seat embroidery. A distinctive Precision Diamond quilt pattern is featured on the door panels, rear backboards, and shoulder sections. The Speed’s colour split leans towards darker secondary hides with contrasting accents from the main interior hue, enhancing the interior’s dramatic tone. Dark tint finishes for traditional Bentley design elements, such as organ stop controls and central air vents further distinguish the cabin’s character.
Bentley’s engineers have managed to achieve a rare feat—blending immense power and dynamic prowess with the luxury, comfort, and refinement expected from the marque. The Bentayga Speed represents the zenith of performance in the Bentley SUV range, offering an astonishing duality: serene luxury in BENTLEY and COMFORT modes, and unrelenting excitement in SPORT.
With this launch, Bentley continues to push the envelope of what is possible within the ultra-luxury SUV segment, offering clients a vehicle that is as thrilling as it is elegant.
