Bentley launches what it says is world's fastest, most luxurious SUV

(February 15, 2019) CREWE, England — Bentley Motors has announced full details of the world’s fastest production SUV. The Bentayga Speed features an enhanced 626 bhp version of the renowned 6.0-liter W12 engine that delivers a top speed of 190 mph and 0–62 mph in 3.9 seconds.

Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Great Britain, the Bentayga Speed is the most powerful and performance-oriented Bentayga to date.

It builds on a long tradition of Speed models that was born with the Continental GT in 2007 and pushes the boundaries of Bentayga performance further since claiming the production SUV record at the grueling Pikes Peak International Hill Climb last year.

"With a top speed of 190 mph, the Bentayga Speed is our most powerful and performance-oriented variant to date," Bentley says.

To match the elevated levels of performance, the Bentayga Speed sports a purposeful exterior look. Dark-tint headlights, body-colored side skirts and a striking tailgate spoiler hint at the SUV’s performance credentials. Dark-tint radiator and bumper grilles, a unique 22-inch wheel design available in three finishes and Speed signature badging add to the sporting design cues.

Inside, the Bentayga Speed introduces a dramatic design theme. This includes elegantly crafted ‘swooshes’ around the door and door grab, on the edge of the seat cushions and backrest bolsters, and on the lower console; a new contrast stitching on the diamond quilting; discreet Speed badging; a Speed illuminated treadplate signature; and the use of Alcantara materials for the first time in a Bentayga.

As with all Bentaygas, the all-wheel-drive Speed is equipped with Electronic Differential Lock and up to eight Drive Dynamics modes. Bespoke engineering revisions to the Sport mode provide a more dynamic drive, while a greater exhaust character and firmer suspension tune further increase driver engagement.

Customers can personalize the Bentayga Speed to their own requirements with a range of exclusive options. Among them are carbon ceramic brakes, 22-way adjustable front seats with massage function, carbon fibre fascia panels, Bentley rear-seat entertainment (RSE) and mood lighting.

The new model takes the Bentayga’s extraordinary abilities to new levels, boosting maximum power from 600 horsepower in the existing 6.0-liter W12 twin-turbocharged model to 626  horsepower in the new Speed. Effortless acceleration is delivered thanks to 664 lb.ft of torque.

With exceptional performance, comfort and handling, maximum speed is also increased from 187 mph to 190 mph in the new Speed, while the 0-62 mph ) acceleration time is reduced from 4.1 seconds to 3.9 seconds.

The performance pinnacle of the Bentayga range, Speed is equipped with four on-road Drive Dynamics modes: Comfort at one extreme, and Bentley and Sport at the other, with Custom for customers who opt to create their own driving set-up.

Uniquely in the Speed, the Sport mode has been recalibrate to enhance response from the W12 engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission, as well as the suspension and Bentley Dynamic Ride. The effect is a more dynamic and engaging drive.

Bentley Dynamic Ride is the world’s first electric active roll control technology that utilizes an unrivaled 48V system. This system instantly counteracts lateral rolling forces when cornering and ensures maximum tyre contact to deliver class-leading cabin stability, ride comfort and exceptional handling.

A greater exhaust character during start up and gear downshifts combines with a firmer suspension set-up to further enhance the driver experience. The Bentayga’s permanent all-wheel drive offers class-leading handling and go-anywhere ability, while powerful ceramic brakes are also an option.