Description
The term ‘connoisseur’ is defined as an expert judge in matters of taste, and motoring connoisseurs hold automakers like Bentley and Rolls-Royce in the highest regard as the personification of class and style. With so much focus on SUVs and crossovers of late, it’s no wonder these power brands have stepped up to the plate. The new Bentaya SUV brings eminent practicality and superfluous comfort to the table – but, seated alongside rivals like the Lamborghini Urus and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, it has to remain on its toes to shine in the ultra-luxury segment.
So Bentley puts in the work and presents buyers with a modern, family-oriented SUV that is now available with an extended wheelbase, seating up to seven. It comes flush with luxuries and comforts typical of the brand and can be powered by various powerful engines, including a 626-horsepower W12 and a hybrid V6 with 443 hp. While it’s not the most beautiful to look at, the Bentayga’s spacious and plush cabin are streets ahead of what you’d find on more mainstream cars. But is it enough to dominate in the segment?
Read in this review:
2023 Bentley Bentayga Changes: What’s The Difference vs The 2022 Bentayga?
For the new year, Bentley introduces a new specification. The Azure range will be available for all models and comes with a bespoke feature selection and special materials and themes designed to prioritize comfort and wellbeing.
The Bentayga range receives the much-anticipated long-wheelbase model with additional cabin space that lets back-seat passengers really stretch out in style. While only available with the V8 engine, it comes with a rear-wheel steering system to help maneuver all that extra length. To further the idea of executive comfort, the seats can recline to 40 degrees, and there is a footrest that extends from the front passenger seat. Available features on the EWB models include massaging rear seats and a rear center console.
The EWB range also gets a new Azure First Edition trim, available in limited numbers for the first 12 months of sales. This model comes with model-specific handcrafted stitching, embroidery, and badging as well as a Naim for Bentley sound system and Bentley Diamond Illumination in-cabin lighting, to name just a few exclusive features.
Finally, an ultra-limited Odyssean Edition is added to the hybrid lineup, boasting bespoke exterior elements and interior designs. Only 70 examples will be produced.
Pros and Cons
- Unmistakable curb appeal
- Three powerful engine options
- Gorgeous cabin with loads of tech
- EWB supplies unparalleled rear comfort
- Decent driving experience
- Almost limitless customization
- Not quite as opulent as a Rolls
- Cargo space is limited, especially in EWB
- Few standard safety systems
- Extras cost a lot
What’s the Price of the 2023 Bentley Bentayga?
The price range for the Bentley Bentayga is broad, with the entry-level models in standard V8 guise retailing for around $192k. Adding the hybrid power plant ups those figures with a few thousand dollars, too. Extended wheelbase derivatives are pricier still, with the Azure First Edition priced north of $210k. The W12-equipped Speed can cost as much as $263k to start. Fully kitted out, it’s not uncommon for Bentayga prices to exceed $300k. These prices exclude Bentley’s destination charge of $2,725.