Bentley Bentayga Speed: Inside The Most Powerful SUV Bentley Ever Built | Cars & Bikes | Forbes

Key Concepts

• Bentley Bentayga Speed (2025): The most powerful Bentayga model, focused on performance.
• Twin-Turbocharged V8: The new engine replacing the W12, producing 641 horsepower.
• Mulliner Collection: Bentley’s bespoke customization program for interior and exterior finishes.
• Drive Modes (B, Comfort, Sport): Settings altering the vehicle’s performance and driving experience.
• Short Wheelbase: The Bentayga Speed is exclusively offered in the shorter wheelbase configuration for enhanced agility.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2025 Bentley Bentayga Speed represents the pinnacle of performance within the Bentayga lineup. A significant change for 2025 is the replacement of the previously offered W12 engine with a twin-turbocharged V8. This V8 engine generates 641 horsepower, delivering substantial power across all drive modes. The vehicle is all-wheel drive, providing both on-road speed and capability on less-maintained surfaces like dirt roads, though it’s not intended for extreme off-roading. The exhaust system is custom-built to amplify the engine’s sound, enhancing the driving experience. The Bentayga Speed is exclusively available in the short wheelbase configuration, prioritizing sporty handling and responsiveness.

Exterior Design and Features

While maintaining the core Bentley aesthetic, the 2025 Bentayga Speed features distinct design elements. Notably, Bentley avoided the dramatic headlight changes seen on the Continental model, retaining the classic round, crystal-cut headlights. This crystal-cut detailing extends to the rear tail lights as well. The rear design emphasizes aerodynamics and speed, featuring a clean aesthetic, a lower diffuser, and quad exhaust pipes. The test vehicle showcased a “teal ocean blue” exterior color, achieved through the Mulliner customization program.

Mulliner Customization

The Mulliner collection is a key differentiator for the Bentayga Speed, allowing owners to personalize both the interior and exterior with sophisticated and customized finishes. This customization significantly impacts the vehicle’s price, with the test model reaching $420,000 compared to the base price of approximately $240,000. Mulliner offers extensive options for paint colors, interior materials, and detailing, enabling a truly bespoke vehicle.

Interior Design and Comfort

The interior of the Bentayga Speed maintains the classic Bentley Bentayga design language, with a focus on luxury and craftsmanship. Key features include a multimedia touchscreen, physical buttons and dials for climate control and radio, and a customizable digital driver display. The center console houses the gear shifter, topped with the Bentley “B” emblem, and drive mode selectors. The drive modes include “B” mode (a balance between comfort and sport), “Comfort,” and “Sport,” each altering the vehicle’s responsiveness and engine sound.

The rear seats are designed for passenger comfort, featuring micro suede pillows, quilted leather, reclining functionality, and a panoramic sunroof. A fixed wall separates the rear passenger area, though it can be removed to create additional cargo space. The cargo area also includes space for a spare tire beneath the floor. A powered cargo cover automatically retracts when the liftgate is opened.

Drive Modes Explained

The Bentayga Speed offers three distinct drive modes:

• B Mode: Provides a balanced driving experience, blending comfort and sportiness.
• Comfort Mode: Prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride.
• Sport Mode: Enhances engine responsiveness, amplifies the exhaust sound, and delivers the full 641 horsepower output.

Model Lineup Context

The Bentayga Speed sits at the top of the Bentayga model range. Other variants include:

• Entry-Level Bentayga: The standard model.
• Azure: Focused on wellness and luxury.
• Atelier: Emphasizes design and personalization.

Notable Quote

“The Bentley Bentayga Speed might be the ultimate ultra luxury SUV on the road. Not only is it a thrill to drive, but the ability to pick your materials, your colors, and your finishes is what really makes it the ultimate SUV.” – This statement encapsulates the vehicle’s dual appeal: high performance and unparalleled customization.

Technical Terms

• Twin-Turbocharged: An engine utilizing two turbochargers to force more air into the cylinders, increasing power output.
• Short Wheelbase: A shorter distance between the front and rear axles, generally resulting in improved handling and agility.
• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): A drivetrain system that delivers power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability.
• Diffuser: An aerodynamic component located on the underside of a vehicle, designed to manage airflow and reduce drag.
• Bespoke: Custom-made or tailored to the specific requirements of the customer.

Synthesis

The 2025 Bentley Bentayga Speed is positioned as the ultimate luxury performance SUV. The shift to a twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivers substantial power, while the short wheelbase enhances agility. The extensive customization options offered through the Mulliner collection allow for a truly personalized vehicle. While maintaining the core Bentley design elements, the Bentayga Speed offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity, solidifying its position at the top of the Bentayga model range.