Bentley Bentayga 2025 Long-Term Test

Can You Truly Drive This £258,000 V8-Powered Luxury SUV Every Day?

Everyone’s calling it ‘brave’. Our latest addition to the Autocar fleet, the Bentley Bentayga, features many impressive attributes, but its standout characteristic is undoubtedly its vivid color.

A Statement in Orange Flame Satin

This eye-catching hue, known as Orange Flame Satin by Mulliner, comes at a price as steep as a small luxury car. Bentley is one of the few luxury brands bold enough to offer such colors, appealing to a diverse clientele that includes not just affluent seniors in the UK, but also the younger, wealthy elite from around the world.

In many respects, the SUV’s stunning appearance encapsulates Bentley’s brand values today, appealing to those who appreciate both traditional elegance in dark blue suits and the avant-garde in vibrant custom hues.

If this striking orange isn’t to your taste, Bentley offers over 50 additional color options, and that’s before you even consider bespoke choices from Mulliner. Most popular choices are classic like black, white, and sapphire blue. In fact, around 70% of Bentaygas are personalized, showcasing everything from unique paint jobs to custom wheels and luxurious interiors.

Performance Driven by Customer Feedback

Our model, the Bentayga V8 S, utilizes a robust V8 engine, being the sporty midrange option between the top-tier version and a hybridized V6. The V8 S was developed specifically due to customer feedback expressing a desire for a more performance-oriented SUV. This model comes equipped with active anti-roll control and a sportier chassis mode, enhancing driving dynamics with a notable 15% increase in damping.

Striking Design Features

Visually, the S model distinguishes itself with unique 22-inch wheels, S badges, a larger rear spoiler, and various black detailing for a more aggressive stance. Inside, expect unique seating arrangements, distinctive stitching, and added accents that provide a sense of sophistication and sporty flair.

The Thrill of Driving

The moment you start this SUV, the purring 4.0-litre twin-scroll turbocharged V8 engine captivates, delivering 542bhp and 568 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to rocket from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Fuel efficiency is surprisingly decent for a vehicle of this caliber at 22.1 mpg, although its CO2 emissions are on the higher side at 294g/km.

The revolutionary Bentley Dynamic Ride system, claimed as the world’s first of its kind, employs a 48V electrical system reacting instantly to rolling forces, vastly improving stability and overall driving experience.

Embracing Adventure

Equipped with a towbar, expect a future mini adventure to test its capabilities further. The V8 S model comprises about a third of Bentayga sales, indicating its popularity among discerning buyers alongside the standard model and the luxurious Azure variant. My initial experiences revolve around suburban leisurely drives and long motorway trips, but I’m eager to explore its full potential on road trips ahead.

Real-World Driving Experiences

In a recent outing on a dual carriageway, I found myself exceeding the speed limit due to the vehicle's powerful presence, and as I shifted to a lower speed area, I was aware of the intriguing dynamic of driving a car that draws attention wherever it goes.

Setting up the Bentley app was a challenge that included switching my speed units from mph to kph, an amusing hiccup that turned out to be quite useful during my travels.

Luxurious Ambiance

The interior of the Bentayga is a blend of high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology. The hand-stitched steering wheel and diamond knurling are quintessential Bentley touches that create a lasting impression of luxury. While some controls feel reminiscent of more mainstream models, the overall package of this automotive masterpiece remains captivating.

Memories on the Road

A memorable drive through France's Loire Valley in this stunning SUV showcased not just its luxury but also its practicality compared to the more confined Continental GT. My trip emphasized enjoyable experiences unfolding on well-paved roads, emphasizing the Bentayga's capability of combining comfort with performance.

Final Thoughts: A Modern Luxury Icon

The Bentayga V8 S exemplifies the evolution of Bentley, catering both to classic luxury seekers and more adventurous younger clients. Having spent time with this exceptional vehicle, the undeniable allure of commanding such a luxurious presence on the road is a joy that continues to impress, even amidst the social dynamics involved with owning a luxury vehicle.

As I navigate daily urban life in such a grand SUV, I’ve learned to appreciate its comfort, technology, and power. Although it draws attention—both positive and negative—the experience of owning a Bentayga as a daily driver has proven to be more accommodating than initially anticipated. Luxury is assured while driving this masterpiece, marking its place as a remarkable choice in the world of high-end SUVs.

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Bentley Bentayga V8 S Specifications

• Price: £197,300 (as tested £258,185)
• Engine: V8, 3996cc, twin-turbo, petrol
• Power: 542bhp
• Torque: 588lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic, 4WD
• 0-62 mph: 4.5 seconds
• Top Speed: 180 mph
• Fuel Consumption: 22.1 mpg
• Boot Capacity: 484 liters
• Dimensions: 5.1m long, 2.2m wide
• Weight: 2416 kg

Ownership of the Bentley Bentayga not only symbolizes success but also a blend of dynamic performance and luxury that continues to redefine modern automotive excellence.