Bentley has ramped up the fun factor with its new V8-powered SUV, the Bentayga Speed, which features a Drift Mode for the first time.
According to Bentley, the Bentayga Speed features “significant advances in dynamic capability.” The SUV has an enhanced Sport chassis mode that delivers increased steering response and driver connection. Bentley says this mode delivers a 15% increase in suspension damping stiffness.
The ESC Dynamic setting is a new addition to Sport mode. It relaxes the ESC intervention so that the driver can slide the SUV through corners and then put more power down on exit. The ESC Dynamic programming also features Launch Control for the first time.
The heart of the Bentayga Speed is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. This delivers 641 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds. This time is faster than the previous Bentayga Speed featuring a W12 engine.
Of course, the ability to slide the Bentley SUV is only good for select times. The Bentayga Speed also needs to deliver the signature Bentley driving experience the rest of the time. Owners of the SUV can access this through the returning Comfort and Bentley driving modes.
The Bentayga Speed offers exclusive visual touches
Bentley set out to make the Bentayga Speed its most exhilarating SUV yet. The automaker also chose to keep the visual touches that have made previous creations stand out from the crowd.
According to Bentley, this trend continues with the V8-powered SUV. This includes the 22” Speed wheels in either dark tint or silver and the optional Speed black roof (gloss or satin).
Other visual touches include painted brake calipers, which Bentley made available in seven different colors, and special Speed headlamps.
The interior touches include the Speed logos embroidered on the seat uppers and the Speed badging on the treadplates. The air vents, organ stops, and central air vents are available in either chrome or a dark tint.
The Speed seats feature two colors. The darker secondary hide is the predominant color, while the main hide color provides bright accents. This two-tone pattern extends to the doors and center console.