Bentley Bentayga review

The Bentley Bentayga has been with us since 2016, and it's interesting how our attitudes to it have changed in that time. At its original launch, it seemed almost heretical that a company like Bentley should build an SUV. And here we are, following its 2020 facelift, viewing it in just the same way as any other super-premium luxury car.

But that's because none of the core Bentley attributes have been lost in the Bentayga – it's monstrously fast with a well-appointed cabin and levels of comfort and build quality that set it far above rivals.

Such are the Bentley's wide range of skills, that choosing rivals for it is very tough. The upper echelons of the Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover line-ups are either as quick or luxurious, but neither simultaneously. At a similar price point is the amazing Lamborghini Urus, which is fast and drives like a sports car, while costing twice as much, you could splash out on the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

What's under the skin?

It’s been facelifted for 2020, and in the process gains new infotainment tech, all-new seats and trim as well as a lightly revised front and more individual rear styling. Currently, it's only available with the impressive twin-turbo 4.0-litre 550hp V8 engine, but the plug-in hybrid version is set to go on sale imminently.

The Bentayga is based on the same technology as the Audi Q7 and shares much of its under-the-surface tech, which is a good start – but you’d never notice when you're behind the wheel. Bentley’s factory in Crewe is carbon neutral and applies a totally different set of skills and values to the cars it builds. We don’t think you’ll feel short-changed.

As with all Bentley models the Bentayga comes with an interior trimmed with thick carpet, quilted leather and the finest wood veneers. Racier models get the option of carbonfibre trim and eye-catching bright colours on the seats and dashboard. How your Bentayga looks will be ultimately down to the buyer, as the personalisation options are plentiful.

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The Bentayga's interior has been given a much-needed makeover. The upgraded infotainment set-up features a 10.9-inch touchscreen as well as featuring Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Rear seat passengers get a new, larger touchscreen remote control tablet, similar to that introduced in the Flying Spur. There's also a new My Bentley connected service which adds remote control features as well as offering in-car wifi.

What engines are available?

Although the V8 petrol is the only engine available currently, a plug-in hybrid that combines all-electric range with powerful performance, will be going on sale shortly. Diesel lovers will be disappointed, as the PHEV effectively replaces that as Bentley moves towards an electrified – and ultimately all-electric – future.

Whichever you choose, Bentley’s trademark blend of speed and comfort is expertly applied through the use of four-wheel drive coupled to air suspension and an advanced anti-roll system that allows the driver the option of serious speed or sumptuous luxury.

It’ll even do off-road driving, with an optional All-terrain Specification package available to offer yet more capability in this regard. All that’s explained in the Handling section of this review.

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• Browse new and approved-used Bentley Bentaygas for sale

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the Bentley Bentayga including its practicality, how much it costs to run, what it's like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one.

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