The Bentley Bentayga Speed once reigned supreme as the fastest SUV on the planet, with its extraordinary W12 engine propelling it to a breathtaking 305 km/h. Now, it has made a stunning comeback, this time powered by a thrilling V8 engine. Following the discontinuation of the W12 models last year, Bentley has embraced a new era with their Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, but the Bentayga Speed takes a different route, boasting a robust 641 hp 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that operates without any plug-in hybrid support. While this power plant may be slightly lower than the 771 hp of the Ultra Performance Hybrid, or even the 671 hp High-Performance Hybrid, it comes with its own set of exciting advantages. This latest iteration produces more horsepower than its predecessor, the old 6.0-litre W12 Bentayga Speed, which generated 626 hp. Though there’s a minor dip in torque—50 Nm less than its W12 sibling—the new V8-powered Bentayga Speed obliterates the 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.4 seconds, a staggering 0.4 seconds quicker than before! Furthermore, the top speed has been ramped up to an astonishing 311 km/h, ensuring that this luxury SUV doesn't just impress on paper but leaves a mark on the asphalt as well. But speed isn't the only realm where this beauty excels.
Many enthusiasts found the previous V8 S model to be the more pleasurable choice for spirited driving, thanks to its lighter kerb weight. Bentley has diligently worked on enhancing the driving experience of the new Speed, introducing a host of changes designed to elevate its performance dynamics. Alongside the familiar Comfort and Bentley driving modes that we’ve come to love, the Sport mode now features recalibrated settings for a more responsive steering experience. With 15% stiffer damping paired with advanced brake torque vectoring, the Bentayga Speed promises sharper agility through turns. Additionally, the vehicle comes equipped with four-wheel steering, a cutting-edge launch control function, and a new ESC Dynamic mode designed for "exhilarating drift angles where appropriate," according to the engineers at Bentley.
Given the extraordinary power of the Speed, combined with a near 2.5-tonne kerb weight, it's no surprise that most buyers are likely to opt for the available carbon ceramic brakes, which can be customized in an impressive palette of seven distinctive colours. These stunning brakes are elegantly housed behind specially crafted optional 23-inch wheels, while 22-inch rims are reserved for those opting for the steel brake configuration.
Visually, the Bentayga Speed stands apart from its Bentley siblings with a sleek black roof, available in either a gloss or satin finish. Accentuating its bold look are a sporty rear spoiler and dark-tinted exterior trim, complemented by chrome Speed badging on the doors and eye-catching unique headlights at the front end. Step inside, and you’re enveloped in the quintessential luxury that Bentley is renowned for, featuring diamond-quilted stitching and gleaming chrome accents. The Speed offers a customized driver display that provides additional insights into the vehicle’s performance metrics, while the seats sport exclusive Speed badging and the option for striking green accents that mirror its stunning exterior design. While the precise pricing for the Bentayga Speed has yet to be revealed, speculation suggests it will exceed the cost of its W12 predecessor, potentially starting at over €290,000. This exhilarating blend of power and luxury is sure to secure the Bentayga Speed a spot at the forefront of the world’s fastest SUVs, ready to redefine luxury performance for those daring enough to take the wheel.