Forget everything you think you know about luxury SUVs. The Bentley Bentayga, a name synonymous with opulence, has always delivered a certain level of thrill. But can the new Bentayga Speed, powered by a V8 engine, truly live up to the legacy of its iconic W12 predecessor? Let's dive in.
The W12-powered Bentayga was a powerhouse, offering effortless acceleration and a refined driving experience. It provided ample power, enough to make you smile without ever feeling overwhelmed.
Now, with the introduction of the Bentley Bentayga Speed, the question arises: can a V8 engine deliver the same level of performance, or even surpass it, in a smaller package?
We spent a week exploring this very question, cruising around Los Angeles in the revamped Bentayga Speed, which has been updated for the next generation of this best-selling SUV.
The Biggest Surprise: All-Gas Power Without An Electric Boost.
Bentley has been focusing on maximizing power from smaller engines using plug-in hybrid technology in recent years. This approach has boosted the Continental and Flying Spur to an astounding 771 horsepower, a remarkable figure for luxury vehicles.
It was widely anticipated that the Bentayga, with a starting price of around $260,000 and reaching $420,265 for the Mulliner edition, would also incorporate a PHEV in its 2025 update. However, this wasn't the case. Instead, Bentley opted for a twin-turbo V8 engine producing 641 horsepower. Surprisingly, this engine delivers more power than the 12-cylinder option, a significant achievement. And the best part? It offers an authentic, throaty engine sound, with two new exhaust system options to choose from.
The overall feel of the engine is powerful and focused, providing a muscular feel in your hands while still offering a luxurious experience for both the driver and passengers, all of whom will be equally delighted by the Bentley's signature luxury.
The Nature of Bentley Bentayga Speed: Smaller, Tougher, Faster.
Under the 'Speed' moniker, the Bentley Bentayga truly shines. It's not just about a larger engine; the Bentayga Speed is faster than the previous W12 model. It rides on 23-inch wheels and boasts the largest brakes Bentley has ever fitted to the Bentayga, with painted discs available in various colors—a Bentley signature, of course.
The Speed model also features a smaller frame for a more muscular appearance, and it's not offered in the extended wheelbase version to maintain its athletic feel.
Furthermore, the Speed enhances performance through an adaptive air suspension system and increased damping, improving road handling. But the real fun lies in Sport mode.
Drive Modes Set the Bentley Bentayga Speed Apart.
The Bentayga Speed begins in B mode, which balances comfort and sport. Comfort mode quiets the engine, while Sport mode amplifies it. In the Bentayga Speed, B mode is a true sport setting. Comfort mode dials down performance for city driving, though it's still far from quiet. Sport mode is in a league of its own: louder, faster, and more eager to perform. This mode enhances throttle responsiveness and suspension for a true performance experience.
It's also where you'll hear the full roar of the car's exhaust system. In Sport mode, the exhaust is distinctly louder—when engaging Sport, accelerating, and even braking. The system delivers a satisfying pop-and-gurgle rev match when downshifting.
While Comfort mode was suitable for city driving, Sport mode was ideal on the highway. I found myself adjusting the drive mode every time I got behind the wheel.
Go Ahead, Off-Road This Bentley (Sort Of).
With all that power, a more robust suspension, larger wheels, all-wheel drive, and good ground clearance, the Bentayga is well-suited for light trail riding—for those daring enough to take an ultra-luxury SUV off the beaten path. It's not uncommon to see ranch owners, beach enthusiasts, or ski-house dwellers venturing to remote locations in their Bentleys. The Bentayga makes this even more feasible.
I had the opportunity to drive the Bentayga Speed on a dirt trail earlier in the year and found it fully capable. I could maintain a decent speed, faster in some areas and slower when needed, completing the cross-prairie drive in about 20 minutes. However, it's essential to remember that this is not a dedicated off-roader, so it's wise to watch out for rocks that could damage the undercarriage or puncture a tire.
Will Bentayga Be Offered In The Same PHEV As The Continental?
Probably. Bentley still produces a six-cylinder turbo-powered hybrid that generates 456 horsepower, significantly less than the 771 horsepower of its newer PHEVs. And with these new super-powered PHEVs outselling the W12 engines by a two-to-one margin, according to Bentley, it would be logical for the company to consider a PHEV for the next generation of the Bentayga.
And that might be soon. The Bentley Bentayga Speed's design hasn't changed much visually. The command console, multimedia screen, and driver controls remain familiar, and the dash lacks the unique rotating multimedia console found in the Continental and Flying Spur. The exterior retains the round crystal headlights that were updated on the Continental but not the Flying Spur. These design changes in other models suggest that we might see a new Bentayga in the future that further evolves the brand's design language and continues to offer what Bentley does best: providing even more options for buyers to create their ideal luxury car.
So, what do you think? Does the V8 Bentayga Speed live up to the hype? Are you surprised by the power of the V8 compared to the W12? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
