Can a V8 Turbo truly replace the iconic W12 in the Bentley Bentayga Speed? It’s a question that divides enthusiasts and challenges the very essence of luxury performance. The original Bentayga, powered by Bentley’s legendary W12 engine, was the epitome of refined power—enough to thrill without overwhelming, wrapped in a satin-smooth exterior that screamed opulence. But here’s where it gets controversial: with the introduction of the Bentayga Speed, Bentley dares to ask whether a smaller, twin-turbo V8 can not only match but surpass its predecessor. And this is the part most people miss—it does, delivering a staggering 641 hp, outmuscling the W12 while retaining that signature Bentley roar, thanks to a new exhaust system that’s as gurgly as it is glorious.
This isn’t just about raw power, though. The Bentayga Speed is a masterclass in engineering trade-offs. Boldly, Bentley skipped the expected plug-in hybrid (PHEV) route, opting instead for an all-gas setup that feels both authentic and daring in today’s electric-obsessed market. The result? A SUV that’s smaller, tougher, and faster, riding on 23-inch wheels and boasting the largest brakes Bentley has ever fitted to the Bentayga. It’s a vehicle that feels muscular yet luxurious, a cradle of comfort for passengers and a thrill machine for the driver.
The real magic lies in its drive modes. Forget what you know about Bentley’s Sport mode—this one transforms the Bentayga Speed into a beast, amplifying throttle response, stiffening the suspension, and unleashing the full growl of the exhaust. It’s so aggressive that you’ll find yourself toggling between Comfort (for stealthy city drives) and Sport (for highway dominance) every time you hit the road. But here’s the kicker: despite its performance focus, the Bentayga Speed isn’t afraid to get its wheels dirty. Light off-roading? Absolutely. While it’s no rock crawler, its all-wheel drive and ground clearance make it surprisingly capable on dirt trails—just watch out for those undercarriage-threatening rocks.
Now, the million-dollar question: Will Bentley eventually offer a PHEV Bentayga? With their super-powered hybrids outselling W12 models two-to-one, it seems inevitable. And with the Bentayga’s design feeling slightly dated compared to the Continental and Flying Spur, a refresh could be on the horizon—one that pushes Bentley’s design language further and gives buyers even more ways to customize their ultimate luxury SUV.
So, does the V8 Turbo Bentayga Speed have what it takes? Absolutely. But here’s the real debate: Is sacrificing the W12’s heritage worth the gains in power and efficiency? Let us know in the comments—are you team V8 or team W12? And while you’re at it, sign up for the Forbes Australia newsletter (https://www.forbes.com.au/newsletter/) or become a member (https://my.forbes.com.au/s/memberships) to stay ahead of the curve in luxury automotive trends. Originally published on Forbes.com (http://forbes.com/), all figures in USD.
