Bentley Bentayga Hybrid on the way

Bentley has taken the wraps off its very first electrified model – the Bentayga Hybrid SUV. It's powered by the same 3.0-litre V6 petrol hybrid engine as the Audi Q7 e-tron, albeit tuned to suit the Bentayga’s luxurious character. The car goes on sale in the second half of 2018.

Bentley claims the model will be the company’s most efficient ever, with CO2 emissions of 75g/km (measured to the latest standards). Official fuel economy and performance figures haven't been revealed, although an all-electric range of over 31 miles is claimed.

The car’s hybrid system features three driving modes that can be selected 'on the fly': EV Drive, Hybrid Mode and Hold Mode. These can also be set to switch automatically to ensure maximum range and efficiency, thanks to a system that uses sat-nav data to calculate its changes and bring battery range to zero just as you arrive at your destination to increase overall efficiency.

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The Bentayga Hybrid has different dashboard dials to reflect its powertrain: the rev counter has been replaced with a dial that can also show EV information, while the coolant temperature gauge is replaced by a battery status display. The infotainment screen can display an energy flow diagram, too.

A full charge from zero using a domestic socket will take 7.5 hours, but Bentley claims that an industrial connection installed at home can drop this figure to 2.5 hours. Bentley will offer the Bentley by Starck Power Dock to customers for installation at home, a charging station designed by famous designer Philippe Starck to match the Bentayga’s luxurious image.

From the outside, the Bentayga Hybrid can be distinguished from other models in the range by its copper-coloured badging and wheel centres – a subtle nod to its more eco-friendly credentials. The car’s charging point is located on the opposite side to the fuel cap.

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It’s business as usual inside, though, with swathes of expertly crafted wood, leather and metal used to create a sumptuous and cosseting cabin. The usual array of customisation options are available, including a huge choice of leathers and veneers, four or five-seat configurations, a choice of powerful stereos and an optional full-length panoramic sunroof.

An array of active safety and technology features are offered, including adaptive cruise control that uses sat-nav data, traffic-sign recognition, advanced parking assistance with a top-down display and the option of fully autonomous parking, plus night vision and a head-up display.

Full integration of hybrid-specific features like remote battery charging, vehicle status report and a charging station finder will also be offered as part of the latest ‘Connected Car MyBentley 3’ services, which can be controlled from the car itself or using a phone app.