Bentley Bentayga Speed W12
The Bentley Bentayga, launched in 2016, marked a seismic shift in the luxury car market and in Bentley's own history. Here was a marque synonymous with low-slung grand tourers and stately saloons creating a full-size luxury SUV. The decision proved prescient: the Bentayga quickly became the brand's best-selling model and helped fund future developments.
At launch, the Bentayga was powered exclusively by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 producing 600 bhp, making it the fastest and most powerful SUV in the world. The Speed variant, introduced in 2019, pushed output to 626 bhp and top speed to 190 mph, reclaiming the title from the Lamborghini Urus.
Beneath the handcrafted exterior lies the Volkswagen Group's MLB Evo platform, shared with the Audi Q7 and Lamborghini Urus, but extensively modified by Bentley. The air suspension system, combined with a 48-volt active anti-roll system and all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, gives the Bentayga remarkable on-road dynamics for a vehicle of its size and weight. An optional All-Terrain Specification adds off-road capability that Bentley demonstrated by taking a Bentayga on an expedition across the sand dunes of the Arabian Empty Quarter.
The interior is where the Bentayga most clearly differentiates itself from rivals. Hand-stitched leather, real wood veneers, and knurled metal controls create an atmosphere more akin to a gentlemen's club than an SUV. The rear can be configured as a five-seat, four-seat, or even a seven-seat layout. The four-seat configuration features individual airline-style seats with heating, cooling, massage, and electrically adjustable bolsters.
A facelifted second-generation Bentayga arrived in 2020 with revised styling, a larger infotainment screen, and improved materials. Engine options expanded to include a 4.0-litre V8 and a plug-in hybrid alongside the range-topping W12 Speed.
The Bentayga Speed also holds notable achievements in motorsport: it has set records at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and the Nurburgring Nordschleife for production SUVs, demonstrating genuine performance credentials beneath its luxury veneer.
While purists initially questioned Bentley's move into the SUV segment, the Bentayga's commercial success and critical acclaim have vindicated the decision. It proved that luxury and capability need not be mutually exclusive, and that the Bentley ethos of effortless performance could translate to an entirely new vehicle category.
The W12 Speed is the collectible choice, though running costs are astronomical — budget for 15 mpg fuel consumption, expensive insurance, and Bentley-only servicing. Check air suspension thoroughly — compressor and strut failures are the most expensive repairs. Brake wear is rapid on carbon-ceramic equipped cars. The 48V active anti-roll system is complex and expensive to repair if faulted. Interior quality should be exceptional — any sign of wear at low mileage suggests heavy use. Check all electronic features work correctly, particularly the infotainment and driver assistance systems. Full Bentley service history is essential for resale value. The V8 offers a more sensible ownership proposition, but the W12 Speed is the one collectors will want long-term.
First Bentley SUV. Launched 2016, facelifted 2020. Built on VW MLB Evo platform extensively modified by Bentley. Quickly became brand's best-selling model. W12 Speed variant is the performance flagship. Also available with V8 and plug-in hybrid powertrains.