Bentley Bentayga Speed Review: Luxury, performance, and exclusivity—these are the pillars upon which Bentley has built its legacy. And with the latest Bentley Bentayga Speed, the British marque redefines what an ultra-luxury SUV can be. While it still delivers the opulence and comfort Bentley is known for, the new Speed model swaps its legendary W12 engine for a lighter, more efficient 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. This change might sound sacrilegious to purists, but the results speak volumes: sharper handling, better efficiency, and even greater thrills behind the wheel.
The Bentayga Speed is not just about brute force; it’s about blending that power with unmatched refinement. With a 0-60 mph sprint time that outpaces even the BMW M5 Touring and a top speed close to 193 mph, this is an SUV that challenges performance sedans in outright speed—without compromising comfort. In Comfort mode, it behaves like a limousine, yet with a twist of the drive selector, it can transform into a fire-breathing beast complete with drift mode and titanium Akrapovič exhausts that add drama to its V8 symphony.
For a starting price of £219,000, the Speed positions itself between the regular Bentayga V8 and the stretched EWB (Extended Wheelbase) version. Yet, it’s far more than a middle child—it’s a statement. A bold design with massive 23-inch wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a race-inspired spoiler tells the world this is no ordinary SUV. And while there’s plenty of room for personalization (and additional cost), the essence of the Bentayga Speed lies in its perfect balance of craftsmanship and adrenaline.
Specifications of Bentley Bentayga Speed
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0-litre Twin-Turbocharged V8 |
| Power Output | 635 PS (626 bhp) |
| Torque | 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) |
| 0-60 mph | 3.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 193 mph (310 km/h) |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic (ZF) |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Weight | Approx. 2,500 kg |
| Wheels | Optional 23-inch alloy wheels |
| Brakes | 440mm Carbon-Ceramic Discs (Front) |
| Starting Price (UK) | £219,000 |
| Launch Date | 2024 |
Design and Styling
The Bentley Bentayga Speed wears its performance badge with pride. From the aggressive front fascia to the sweeping lines and sculpted rear, every inch of this SUV exudes luxury and athleticism. The large, optional 23-inch wheels not only elevate the vehicle’s stance but also allow for enormous brake discs—the largest ever fitted to a production car.
A large rear spoiler adds aerodynamic presence, while unique Speed badging and dark-tinted detailing differentiate it from the standard Bentayga. The overall design is unmistakably Bentley: elegant, commanding, and sophisticated, yet with an undertone of performance-focused aggression.
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Interior Luxury: Opulence Meets Motorsport
Step inside, and the cabin greets you with a symphony of premium materials—leather, real wood, metal, and carbon fiber. Bentley’s craftsmanship is legendary, and in the Bentayga Speed, it reaches new heights. Quilted leather seats with Speed embroidery, contrast stitching, and customizable interior themes offer both personalization and prestige.
Advanced features like a digital driver display, ambient lighting, and a premium Naim for Bentley audio system ensure that you’re cocooned in luxury—even as the V8 roars beneath the hood.
Performance and Handling
With a twin-turbocharged V8 under the hood, the Bentley Bentayga Speed delivers heart-pounding performance. It generates 635 PS and 900 Nm of torque—numbers that push this luxury SUV into the realm of supercar performance. The 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds is mind-bending for a vehicle weighing nearly 2.5 tonnes.
Equipped with air suspension, active anti-roll technology, and multiple drive modes (including Sport and Custom), the Speed adapts seamlessly to any driving style. The Akrapovič titanium exhaust system enhances the driving experience with an aggressive exhaust note that’s as refined or raw as you want it to be.
Technology and Features
- Infotainment System: 10.9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Sound System: 1,780-watt Naim audio system (optional)
- Driver Assistance: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Night Vision
- Interior Features: Heated & ventilated seats, massage functions, panoramic sunroof
- Drive Modes: Comfort, Sport, Bentley, Custom, Off-Road
Price and Variants
The Bentley Bentayga Speed starts at £219,000 in the UK. However, that’s just the beginning. With Bentley’s wide range of customization options—ranging from bespoke paint jobs to Mulliner interior detailing—buyers can easily push the price well above £250,000. It’s offered in a single fully-loaded variant, with optional performance and luxury packages for those who want even more.
Launch Date and Availability
The updated Bentayga Speed with the V8 powertrain was launched in early 2024. It is now available across all major global markets, including the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and selected markets in Asia and North America. Bentley has confirmed limited production slots for some regions, making it an even more exclusive buy.
Bentley Bentayga Speed Review Conclusion
The Bentley Bentayga Speed proves that luxury and performance don’t have to be mutually exclusive. It’s an SUV that combines the finesse of a Bentley limousine with the raw power and agility of a sports car. With the new V8 engine, not only is it lighter and quicker, but it’s also more responsive and emotionally engaging to drive.
From the outside, it’s bold and commanding; from the inside, it’s a haven of bespoke luxury. And on the road, it performs like no other SUV in its segment. The Bentayga Speed is the perfect expression of Bentley’s dual personality—refined elegance and untamed power. For those who demand both, it’s the ultimate answer.
Bentley Bentayga Speed Review FAQs
1. Why did Bentley switch from the W12 to a V8 in the Bentayga Speed?
Bentley replaced the W12 with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 to improve efficiency, reduce weight, and enhance handling while still delivering top-tier performance. The V8 offers nearly identical power with a more responsive character.
2. Is the Bentayga Speed good for daily driving?
Yes, the Bentayga Speed offers excellent ride comfort in Comfort mode, making it suitable for daily commuting and long-distance touring. It combines the practicality of an SUV with the refinement expected from Bentley.
3. What is the top speed of the Bentley Bentayga Speed?
The top speed of the Bentley Bentayga Speed is 193 mph (310 km/h), making it one of the fastest production SUVs in the world.
4. What are the key rivals to the Bentayga Speed?
The Bentayga Speed competes with the Lamborghini Urus, Aston Martin DBX707, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, and Range Rover SV. However, it offers a unique blend of luxury, customization, and performance that sets it apart.
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