Bentley has further improved its SUV offering with the introduction of its first Bentayga S model. The car promises to bring extra sporting agility to one of the world’s most popular luxury go-anywhere vehicles.
It is the first time an S version has been released since the Bentayga was introduced in 2015. It joins the existing V8, Speed and Hybrid models that are already available. The addition of an S version reflects the growing importance of the Bentayga to Bentley. It now accounts for almost 50% of the British brand’s global sales and demand is steadily growing.
Designed and engineered in Bentley’s carbon-neutral factory in Crewe, the new Bentayga S combines the car’s impressive go-anywhere capabilities with the sporting prestige usually experienced in its Continental GT model. The Bentayga S promises a more engaging drive on the road with a stiffer chassis, responsive steering and reduced body-roll. A wealth of technology allows you to better utilize the power of Bentley’s revered 4.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged V8.
The latest-generation V8 balances power with productivity, offering speed off the line and fuel economy. The Bentayga S boasts 542 horsepower and 770 Nm of torque, more than most SUVs. Naught to 60 is done in 4.4 seconds and it goes on to achieve a top speed of 180mph. When used economically, the tank offers a range of over 400 miles.
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The new model sports an enlarged rear spoiler for a more aggressive look / ©Bentley
The 22″ wheels are unique to the Bentley Bentayga S / ©Bentley
The added sportiness comes at no expense to its offroad capabilities. The Bentayga S has the standard All-Terrain Specification available on all other models. There are dedicated modes for snow, wet, grass, dirt, mud and sand. It also has a wading depth of 500 mm, should it be necessary.
The inner workings are undoubtedly impressive, but most customers will be drawn in by the Bentayga S’s aggressive exterior. The model is distinguished by a range of features, including striking 22″ wheels and a larger rear spoiler. Dark tint lenses on the head and tail lamps, and a black split oval tailpipe complete the car’s muscular look. Engineers have also redesigned the exhaust system to amplify that trademark Bentley roar.
The aggression continues in its luxurious cabin. The driver is greeted with an innovative ‘S’ badge positioned on the lower edge of the front doors and exclusive graphics in the driver’s instrument panel. Seats have been reworked to provide a more sporting aesthetic through stitching and color split to reflect the exterior. The cabin is available in a four-, five or seven-seat configuration.
For lovers of a pure V8, this model will represent one of the final opportunities to buy one from Bentley. The luxury brand is committed to offering only hybrid or fully electric vehicles by 2026 with full electrification to follow by 2030. In the same year, Bentley will become end-to-end carbon neutral and make its Crewe operation carbon positive (taking more CO2 out of the air than it is putting in). The commitment to sustainability goes beyond its car operation and is also a major part of the recently announced Bentley Residence project in Miami and its home furniture collection.
The interiors have been redesigned to offer a sportier feel / ©Bentley
From $219,800, bentleymotors.com
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