The Bentley Bentayga stands as a pinnacle of luxury in the SUV segment, seamlessly blending opulence with exhilarating performance. Introduced in late 2015 by the British marque Bentley Motors, this vehicle marked the brand’s bold entry into the luxury crossover SUV market—a territory previously uncharted by the iconic automaker renowned for its grand tourers and sedans. As Bentley’s first-ever SUV, the Bentayga redefined expectations, offering a unique combination of handcrafted elegance, cutting-edge technology, and robust off-road capability. Designed to cater to the elite who demand both prestige and practicality, the Bentayga has quickly become one of Bentley’s best-selling models, contributing significantly to the brand’s growing sales figures globally.
The Bentayga’s journey began with the unveiling of the EXP 9 F concept at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, hinting at Bentley’s ambition to conquer the SUV market. After refining its design based on initial feedback, the production version debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2015, captivating audiences with its imposing stance and luxurious detailing. Manufactured with its body produced at Volkswagen’s Zwickau-Mosel Plant in Germany and meticulously assembled at Bentley’s historic factory in Crewe, United Kingdom, the Bentayga reflects a fusion of German engineering precision and British craftsmanship. Over the years, it has evolved through updates and new variants, solidifying its position as a benchmark for luxury SUVs.
The name “Bentayga” draws inspiration from the rugged Roque Bentayga rock formation in Gran Canaria and the vast Taiga snow forest, symbolizing its ability to conquer diverse terrains while exuding sophistication. Available in multiple seating configurations—four, five, or seven seats—and a range of powertrains, the Bentayga caters to a wide audience, from those seeking a chauffeur-driven experience to enthusiasts craving dynamic performance. With its commanding presence, the Bentayga competes head-to-head with the likes of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Lamborghini Urus, and Aston Martin DBX, yet it carves its own niche with an unmatched balance of comfort, versatility, and prestige.
This detailed exploration of the Bentley Bentayga will cover its technical specifications, available variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of its features, design, and market standing. Whether you’re a prospective buyer or an automotive enthusiast, this guide offers a comprehensive look at what makes the Bentayga a standout in the ultra-luxury SUV segment.
Technical Specifications
The Bentley Bentayga offers a range of powertrains and configurations, each engineered to deliver exceptional performance and luxury. Below is a tabular representation of its technical specifications, compiled from reputable sources like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting the latest available data as of March 2025.
| Specification | V8 Petrol | Hybrid (V6) | EWB (Extended Wheelbase) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8 | 3.0L V6 Turbo Petrol + Electric | 4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8 |
| Displacement (cc) | 3996 | 2995 | 3996 |
| Max Power | 542 bhp @ 6000 rpm | 462 PS (Combined) | 542 bhp @ 6000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 770 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm | 700 Nm (Combined) | 770 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| 0-100 kmph | 4.5 seconds | 5.2 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 290 kmph | 254 kmph | 290 kmph |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 7.6 kmpl | 8.6 kmpl (Petrol Mode) | 7.6 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 liters | 75 liters | 85 liters |
| Length (mm) | 5125 | 5125 | 5322 |
| Width (mm) | 2222 | 2222 | 2222 |
| Height (mm) | 1728 | 1728 | 1728 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2995 | 2995 | 3175 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 180 | 180 | 180 |
| Boot Space (liters) | 484 (5-seater) / 387 (4-seater) | 479 (5-seater) | 484 (5-seater) |
| Seating Capacity | 4 or 5 | 4 or 5 | 4 or 5 |
| Suspension (Front) | Air Suspension with Continuous Damping | Air Suspension with Continuous Damping | Air Suspension with Continuous Damping |
| Suspension (Rear) | Air Suspension with Continuous Damping | Air Suspension with Continuous Damping | Air Suspension with Continuous Damping |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Disc / Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc / Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc / Ventilated Disc |
| Tyre Size | 285/45 R22 | 285/45 R22 | 285/45 R22 |
Note: Specifications may vary slightly based on market-specific configurations and optional upgrades.
Variants
The Bentley Bentayga is offered in several variants, each tailored to specific preferences, from performance-driven models to those prioritizing luxury and efficiency. Below is a table summarizing the key variants available as of March 2025.
| Variant | Engine | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| V8 | 4.0L V8 Twin-Turbo | Base model with powerful V8, 10.9-inch infotainment, 20-way adjustable seats |
| S | 4.0L V8 Twin-Turbo | Sporty styling, larger rear spoiler, Alcantara leather interior, enhanced suspension |
| Azure | 4.0L V8 Twin-Turbo | Focus on wellbeing, ventilated seats, advanced postural adjustment, chrome grille |
| EWB (Extended Wheelbase) | 4.0L V8 Twin-Turbo | Extended rear cabin, 22-way adjustable rear seats, panoramic sunroof |
| Hybrid | 3.0L V6 Turbo + Electric | Plug-in hybrid, eco-friendly, electric range up to 40 km (approx.), luxury trim |
Note: The W12 engine option has been discontinued as Bentley shifts towards more fuel-efficient powertrains.
Price in Metro Cities
The Bentley Bentayga commands a premium price reflective of its luxury status, with costs varying by city due to differences in taxes, registration, and insurance. Below is a table of ex-showroom prices in major Indian metro cities, based on data from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale as of March 2025.
| City | V8 (Base Model) | S | Azure | EWB | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹ 5.00 Cr | ₹ 5.87 Cr | ₹ 6.37 Cr | ₹ 6.00 Cr | ₹ 5.25 Cr |
| Mumbai | ₹ 5.10 Cr | ₹ 5.98 Cr | ₹ 6.50 Cr | ₹ 6.12 Cr | ₹ 5.35 Cr |
| Bangalore | ₹ 5.15 Cr | ₹ 6.03 Cr | ₹ 6.55 Cr | ₹ 6.17 Cr | ₹ 5.40 Cr |
| Chennai | ₹ 5.12 Cr | ₹ 6.00 Cr | ₹ 6.52 Cr | ₹ 6.15 Cr | ₹ 5.38 Cr |
| Kolkata | ₹ 5.08 Cr | ₹ 5.95 Cr | ₹ 6.47 Cr | ₹ 6.10 Cr | ₹ 5.33 Cr |
Note: Prices are ex-showroom and subject to change based on customization, optional extras, and dealership offers. On-road prices will be higher due to RTO and insurance charges.
About the Bentley Bentayga
Design and Exterior
The Bentley Bentayga’s exterior design is a masterful blend of muscularity and elegance, embodying the brand’s signature aesthetic while adapting it to the SUV form. Its front fascia is dominated by a bold matrix grille, available in bright chrome on the Azure or blacked-out on the S variant, flanked by sleek, oval-shaped LED headlamps featuring cut-crystal glassware for a jewel-like effect. The facelifted model, introduced in 2020, brought a more upright grille and redesigned bumper, enhancing its imposing presence. The side profile showcases a sculpted silhouette with subtle creases, accentuated by massive 22-inch alloy wheels (optional on base models, standard on higher trims) that lend a commanding stance. At the rear, the Bentayga draws inspiration from the Continental GT with its elliptical tail lamps and a bumper-mounted number plate holder, complemented by twin oval exhausts that echo the light design.
The Extended Wheelbase (EWB) variant stretches the vehicle by 180 mm, with the additional length integrated into the rear doors, ensuring the proportions remain harmonious. This version also features a repositioned panoramic sunroof, shifted 125 mm rearward to optimize cabin space. Buyers can choose from over 60 exterior colors, including exclusive shades like Opalite and Gravity Grey, with duo-tone options and satin finishes available through Bentley’s Mulliner division. The Blackline Specification replaces chrome accents with black trim, while the Styling Specification adds a carbon fiber body kit for a sportier edge. Every detail, from the polished wheel designs to the hand-painted coachlines, underscores Bentley’s commitment to craftsmanship.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Bentley Bentayga, and you’re enveloped in a world of luxury that rivals the finest grand tourers. The cabin is a symphony of aromatic leather, rich wood veneers, and polished metal trim, all meticulously hand-assembled in Crewe. The dashboard features a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, seamlessly integrated with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside a fully digital instrument cluster that offers customizable displays. The steering wheel, seats, and door trims have been updated in recent iterations, with the Azure variant emphasizing wellbeing through ventilated seats and advanced postural adjustments.
The Bentayga’s seating options cater to diverse needs: the four-seat configuration offers throne-like rear seats with 22-way adjustability, including heating, ventilation, and massage functions, while the five-seat layout balances practicality with luxury. The EWB variant takes rear-seat comfort to new heights, with an extended wheelbase providing exceptional legroom—ideal for chauffeur-driven buyers. In Relax mode, the rear seats recline up to 40 degrees, and a leather-trimmed footrest deploys from the front passenger seatback, creating a limousine-like experience. Rear passengers also enjoy dual 10.1-inch entertainment screens and a dedicated Touch Screen Remote for controlling climate and sunroof settings.
Material choices are vast, ranging from traditional high-gloss wood like Piano Black to open-pore finishes that use less lacquer for a natural feel. Technical options include carbon fiber or Dark Tint Diamond Brushed Aluminium, while Mulliner offers painted finishes like Piano Linen. The cabin’s attention to detail extends to the Naim 20-speaker audio system, delivering concert-hall acoustics, and ambient lighting that can be tailored to the occupant’s mood. Boot space varies by configuration—484 liters in the five-seater and 387 liters in the four-seater—ensuring practicality isn’t sacrificed for luxury.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Bentley Bentayga offers a trio of powertrains, each delivering a distinct driving experience. The 4.0L twin-turbo V8, standard across most variants, produces 542 bhp and 770 Nm of torque, propelling the SUV from 0-100 kmph in just 4.5 seconds (4.6 seconds for the EWB) with a top speed of 290 kmph. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, it emits a refined yet muscular burble, striking a balance between performance and efficiency. The 3.0L V6 hybrid, combining a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, delivers 462 PS and 700 Nm, offering an electric-only range of approximately 40 km and a quieter, eco-conscious drive. Though the W12 engine—once the range-topping option with 626 bhp—is no longer available, its legacy lives on in the Bentayga’s reputation for blistering acceleration.
The Bentayga’s handling belies its size, thanks to an adaptive air suspension with continuous damping control and optional rear-wheel steering (standard on S and Azure models). This setup ensures a plush ride on highways and surprising agility in corners, while dedicated off-road modes—accessed via a rotary dial—enable it to tackle rough terrain with ease. Features like Intelligent Park Assist and Manoeuvre Assist enhance urban usability, allowing the SUV to park itself or avoid scrapes in tight spaces. The Touring Specification, standard on higher trims, includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Guidance, making long drives effortless.
Technology and Safety
The Bentayga is equipped with cutting-edge technology that enhances both convenience and safety. The 10.9-inch touchscreen anchors the infotainment system, offering connected car features, wireless charging, and USB-C ports. Rear-seat entertainment is elevated with twin screens, while the My Bentley app allows remote parking and vehicle monitoring. The 3D 360-degree camera provides a real-time view of surroundings, complemented by a suite of driver assistance systems like lane departure warning, matrix headlights with High Beam Assist, and electronic stability control with traction control.
Safety is paramount, with six airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and intelligent park assist ensuring occupant protection. While the Bentayga has not been crash-tested by Global NCAP, its robust unibody construction and advanced safety features align with Bentley’s commitment to occupant security. The hybrid variant adds eco-friendly credentials without compromising on these standards, making it a versatile choice for modern buyers.
Close Competitors
The Bentley Bentayga operates in a fiercely competitive segment, where luxury, performance, and prestige are non-negotiable. Its closest rivals include:
- Rolls-Royce Cullinan: Priced at approximately ₹ 6.95 Cr (ex-showroom Delhi), the Cullinan is the epitome of luxury SUVs, offering a smoother ride and a more opulent cabin. However, it lacks the Bentayga’s sporty edge and off-road versatility, appealing more to those prioritizing chauffeured comfort over driver engagement.
- Lamborghini Urus: Starting at ₹ 4.18 Cr, the Urus is a performance powerhouse with a 641 bhp twin-turbo V8, accelerating from 0-100 kmph in 3.6 seconds. Its aggressive styling and track-ready dynamics contrast with the Bentayga’s refined luxury, making it a favorite among thrill-seekers.
- Aston Martin DBX: Priced at ₹ 3.82 Cr for the base model and ₹ 4.63 Cr for the DBX 707, the DBX blends British elegance with sportscar DNA. The 707 variant’s 697 bhp outpaces the Bentayga V8, but its interior, while luxurious, doesn’t match Bentley’s handcrafted opulence.
- Mercedes-Maybach GLS: At ₹ 2.96 Cr, this offers a more affordable luxury SUV experience with a focus on rear-seat comfort and a 550 bhp V8. It lacks the Bentayga’s bespoke customization and off-road prowess, positioning it as a less exclusive alternative.
The Bentayga distinguishes itself with its versatility—equally adept on a muddy trail or a red carpet—combined with Bentley’s heritage of craftsmanship. While the Cullinan excels in sheer luxury, the Urus in raw performance, and the DBX in sporty elegance, the Bentayga strikes a rare balance that appeals to a broad spectrum of ultra-luxury buyers.
Market Position and Ownership Experience
Since its launch, the Bentayga has been a sales success, with over 20,000 units sold globally by 2022, outpacing initial projections. In India, where Bentley operates showrooms in Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, the SUV caters to an elite clientele willing to invest in its premium pricing and costly maintenance. Servicing, handled through six service centers, is expensive—often exceeding ₹ 2 lakh annually—reflecting the high cost of ownership. Yet, owners rave about the driving experience, citing its smooth handling, luxurious cabin, and commanding road presence.
The Bentayga’s appeal lies in its ability to cater to dual personas: the chauffeur-driven magnate and the performance enthusiast. Its customization options, courtesy of Bentley’s Mulliner division, allow buyers to create a truly bespoke vehicle, from unique paint finishes to embroidered interiors. As Bentley transitions towards electrification—evidenced by the hybrid variant and plans for a full EV by 2025—the Bentayga remains a forward-looking icon in the luxury SUV space.
Final Thoughts!
The Bentley Bentayga is more than just an SUV; it’s a statement of luxury, power, and versatility. With its range of powertrains, from the potent V8 to the eco-conscious hybrid, and variants like the sporty S and the indulgent EWB, it caters to diverse tastes within the ultra-luxury segment. Priced between ₹ 5.00 Cr and ₹ 6.75 Cr in India, it commands a premium that reflects its unrivaled craftsmanship and performance. Against competitors like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Lamborghini Urus, the Bentayga holds its own with a unique blend of elegance and capability, making it a worthy addition to any luxury garage. Whether navigating city streets or rugged trails, the Bentayga delivers an experience that is unmistakably Bentley—timeless, luxurious, and exhilarating.
