The Bentley Bentayga, a quintessentially British SUV, made its grand debut in 2015 and has since redefined luxury in the automotive world. As we explore the 2024 first-generation facelift variant, it’s evident that Bentley has spared no effort in ensuring the Bentayga remains at the pinnacle of luxury SUVs. Available exclusively in petrol, the Bentayga’s price range starts from an ex-showroom cost of ₹5.5 crore, with the top model stretching up to ₹9.5 crore. The version in focus, the Bentayga V8, commands a price of ₹6 crore, showcasing Bentley’s dedication to luxury and performance.
The Bentayga represents Bentley’s foray into the luxury SUV market, marking a significant milestone for the brand. Its status as one of the world’s most expensive SUVs is justified by its unparalleled craftsmanship and performance. Constructed with a body made in Germany and final assembly taking place in the UK, the Bentayga exudes international craftsmanship. Despite its primary 4-seater configuration, Bentley offers 5 and 7-seater options, catering to various customer needs.
Designed by the renowned SangYup Lee, who has an impressive portfolio including the Continental GT, Flying Spur, Hyundai Ioniq 7, Chevrolet Camaro, and Corvette, the Bentayga’s design is both innovative and elegant. It features a permanent all-wheel-drive system with a centre Torsen differential, ensuring unmatched driving dynamics.
The Bentayga is built on the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Longitudinal Matrix (MLB Evo) platform, shared with other high-performance vehicles like the Audi Q7, Q8, Lamborghini Urus, and Porsche Cayenne. This underpinning contributes to its refined handling and stability.
Bentley offers an array of exterior and interior customization options for the Bentayga, allowing owners to tailor the SUV to their personal taste. From the striking matrix lower bumper grille and chrome radiator matrix grille to the crystal cut design of the full matrix elliptical LED headlamps, every detail reflects Bentley’s commitment to luxury and attention to detail. The SUV is equipped with rain-sensing wipers, acoustic heat-insulating windscreen, and electrically adjustable powerfold heated auto-dimming outside mirrors, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
The Bentayga’s dimensions, capability to wade through 500 mm of water, and its towing capacity of up to 3500 kg demonstrate its versatility and performance prowess. It rides on 21 or optional 22-inch alloy wheels and offers an array of tyre options to suit different driving conditions. The car we tested had 285/45 R21 113W Pirelli Scorpion Verde radial tubeless tyres.
Exterior, the Bentayga is just as impressive, offering a choice of 80 colors, personalized paint options through the Personal Commission Paint service, and inside high-quality materials like wood veneer, piano black, and carbon fibre options. For the audiophiles, Bentley provides audio systems from Bang & Olufsen and Naim, alongside its own Bentley audio system.
The Bentayga doesn’t just cater to comfort and aesthetics; it’s also about performance. The 3996 cc V8 engine and 2995 cc V6 hybrid are the options, though the W12 and diesel variants have been discontinued, provides an exhilarating driving experience, combining luxury with powerful performance. V8 we tested emits 542 horsepower, 770 Nm torque, 290 kmph top speed and gives 9 kmpl average from 85 litre fuel tank. All mated to ZF 8HP90 8-speed automatic transmission.
The all-terrain specification, featuring four off-road settings, and the inclusion of Electronic Stability Program (ESP) off-road features like hill descent control and trailer sway mitigation, underscore the Bentayga’s versatility and capability in various driving conditions.
Safety and technology are paramount in the Bentayga, with 8 airbags, ABS, EBD, hydraulic brake assist, drag torque control, electronic differential lock, traction control, park distance control, Bentley Safeguard Plus, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) offering features like Intelligent Park Assist and Lane Departure Warning. Additionally, the My Bentley app enhances connectivity, allowing remote access to numerous vehicle features.
The Bentayga’s interior is a haven of luxury, with options for personalized customization, adjustable rear seats with massage and ventilation, and a myriad of colors for the leather upholstery. The picnic tables, console drinks cooler, and rear seat entertainment screens further enhance the passenger experience.
For those seeking a luxury SUV that blends performance, technology, and unparalleled craftsmanship, the Bentley Bentayga stands out as a compelling choice. Its rich heritage, combined with modern innovation, makes it a symbol of luxury and exclusivity on the road.
