Bentley has further refined the Bentayga
super luxury SUV for its mid-cycle update and there’s a lot to talk about,
especially in the styling department. While the front end looks more or less
the same, there’s a big surprise at the rear where Bentley has added
oval-shaped LED taillights that look very similar to those on the Continental
GT. hat’s because designers wanted the Bentayga to be more in line with the
brand’s new styling language introduced by the third-generation Continental GT
and all-new Flying Spur saloon.
You may not realize, but every panel at
the front of the Bentayga has been redesigned for a cleaner, modern look. The
assertive matrix grille is larger and more upright, while the new intelligent
LED matrix headlamp technology includes the signature Bentley design inspired
by cut crystal glassware. The front bumper is more aggressive as well, while
heated windscreen wipers with 22 washer jets in each arm are introduced for the
first time.
Seen from the side, the new wheels
featuring a design unique to Bentayga are the most noticeable update. The
biggest transformation takes place at the back, where the facelifted luxury SUV
brings a total redesign including a new full-width tailgate with new
encapsulated lamps. The license plate has been moved down into the bumper for a
cleaner appearance, while the oval, split tailpipes echo the shape of the
taillights. Interestingly, the rear track has grown by 20 mm, allowing
the repositioning of the wheels in the arches for improved stance and dynamics.
There are significant changes inside too,
with highlights including the new center console housing a 10.9-inch
infotainment screen with edge-to-edge graphics, new steering wheel sourced from
the Continental GT and Flying Spur, new door trims, and all-new seats. About
that, the rear seats are now available with ventilation in five-seat
configuration. Bentley says that rear passengers also enjoy significantly more
space, with legroom increased by up to 100 mm depending on
configuration. The automaker does not say how it achieved that, though.
Arguably the most significant interior
update is the next-generation infotainment system operated via an all-digital
10.9-inch touchscreen display with “super high resolution” and dynamic
graphics. The system incorporates all-new navigation with satellite maps,
online search and other features, as well as standard wireless Apple CarPlay
and Android Auto.
Rear seat passengers also get a new,
larger touchscreen remote control tablet, similar to the one introduced in the
all-new Flying Spur. USB-C data ports and a wireless phone charger are now
standard too, as is an embedded SIM powering My Bentley in-car and remote
services. As for the interior appearance, the cabin can be made even more
luxurious with the application of dark tint diamond brushed aluminum trim for
the first time in a Bentley, as well as two straight-grained veneers new to
Bentayga: Koa and Crown Cut Walnut. The Mulliner Driving Specification adds a
new quilting design, while micro piping detailing is a new option for the
seats.
The engine lineup will remain unchanged,
with the 2021 model initially launching in Bentayga V8 guise. The 4.0-liter
twin-turbo V8 engine will continue to make 542 HP and 770
Nm hooked to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and standard AWD.
Later on, Bentley will add the Bentayga
Hybrid PHEV and the 6.0-liter W12-powered Bentayga Speed able to reach 305 km/h.
