Bentley Bentayga Speed returns and it’s not a hybrid

Bentley has unveiled the new Bentayga Speed, the brand’s flagship luxury SUV, and shock! It’s not a hybrid. In an era increasingly dominated by electrification, the Speed sets itself apart from its Continental GT and Flying Spur Speed siblings by forgoing plug-in hybrid technology altogether.

Under the bonnet is Bentley’s familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, delivering a formidable 478kW and 850Nm of torque between 2250 and 4500rpm. That’s good enough for a 0–100km/h sprint in just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 311km/h. Notably, that makes it quicker and faster than the previous 12-cylinder Bentayga Speed.

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So why not adopt the 567kW Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain found in other Bentley Speed models? Packaging, according to Bentley. The Bentayga’s architecture can’t currently accommodate the 25.9kWh battery used in the Continental and Flying Spur. That means, for now, the Bentley Bentayga Speed stays proudly petrol-powered.

Bentley claims this is the most dynamic and engaging Bentayga to date. A recalibrated Sport mode amps damping stiffness by 15 percent and sharpens the brake torque vectoring system. Rear-wheel steering is standard, enhancing agility, while the 48-volt active anti-roll system, introduced in the last update, continues to improve cornering stability.

Opt for the optional ceramic brakes and drivers gain access to a new ESC Dynamic setting. This enables controlled on-throttle slip angles, yes, Bentley’s most luxurious SUV can now drift. This sits alongside a proper launch control system to extract maximum performance off the line. 

Visually, the Bentayga Speed is distinguished by its darker, more aggressive design. Chrome brightwork is swapped for darkened trim, including tinted front and grey rear lights. Optional 23-inch Speed-specific wheels are available when ceramic brakes are specified. Inside, the cabin blends traditional Bentley opulence with a sportier edge. Darkened trim continues inside, joined by Speed branding on the treadplates and seats, and, if optioned, an Akrapovič titanium exhaust lends the V8 a sharper bark.

Set to rival the likes of the Range Rover Sport SV, Aston Martin DBX S, and Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, the Bentley Bentayga Speed looks to sharpen its dynamic credentials without sacrificing the plush comfort it’s known for.