190-mph Bentley Bentayga Speed lives up to its name
Bentley has upped the ante on the 2021 Bentayga with a new flagship Speed model that keeps its Vmax reputation intact.
Just like its previous iteration, the Bentayga Speed is powered by a 634-hp, six-liter twin-turbo W-12 engine and tops out at 190 mph—a mere 0.5 mph higher than Lamborghini’s Urus. 0-62 mph is dispatched in a scant 3.9 seconds. Optional carbon-ceramic brakes make shedding speed more effective, and a host of high tech features are in play to make the behemoth Bentley handle. Bentley Dynamic Ride uses a 48V electrical system and the air suspension to counteract body roll. Torque Vectoring by Brake gently applies the stoppers to the inside rear wheel on corner entry which aids turn-in. There are four Drive Dynamics modes, and in Sport setting the throttle and transmission response are dialed right up.
There’s a more aggressive look to the revised styling. Tinted headlights and taillights, body-colored side skirts, bespoke front and rear bumpers, and an extended rear spoiler are the obvious differences. Look closer and you’ll notice darker grilles, a special 22-inch wheel design, and Speed badging.
Customers are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a paint job. There are 17 standard colors with 47 additional options in the Extended and Mulliner color ranges, plus 24 two-tone choices. If that’s not enough then you can simply provide a sample color and Bentley will match it.
For the inside there’s a selection of 15 different leather colors and Alcantara trim on the seats, trim panels, gear shifter and steering wheel. You’ll also find Speed badging on the kick plates and fascia. The Speed benefits from all the infotainment and connectivity upgrades of the 2021 Bentayga.
Bentley claims that not only is the Speed the fastest SUV in the world, it’s also the most luxurious Bentayga yet. Whether it will match the new class-leading Aston Martin DBX for driving enjoyment remains to be seen.
