Bentley Bentayga Speed revealed as world’s fastest SUV

The Bentley Bentayga now has a sportier version, called the Speed. While a sportier version of a 2.5-tonne luxury SUV might sound like a contradiction in terms, the hot Bentayga’s performance figures mean it’s technically the world’s fastest SUV. It made it's official debut at the Geneva Motor Show, and will go on sale in late 2019.

Bentley Bentayga Speed performance and specs

Bentley has extracted another 26bhp from the massive 6.0-litre W12 petrol engine, bringing the total up to a heady 626bhp. The Bentayga’s 0-62mph time has dropped to under four seconds, and the top speed is up to 190.1mph (306km/h). This is how Bentley has claimed the world’s fastest SUV title, as the Lamborghini Urus will hit 189.5mph (305km/h) handing bragging rights to the British manufacturer.

Best large SUVs to buy in 2019

Alongside the extra horsepower, the Bentley Bentayga Speed benefits from a number of other enhancements. Bentley’s Dynamic Ride system is included, which can help counteract ‘lateral rolling forces’ - in other words, the car won’t roll as much through fast corners, and the tyres will always be pressed into the ground. This improves ride quality, handling and stability.

13

The suspension has been firmed up over the standard model, the exhaust is louder and the gearbox and accelerator response has been improved. The Bentayga Speed also packs the stopping power needed to haul this SUV to a standstill; its carbon-ceramic brakes are the largest ever fitted to a Bentley and can withstand temperatures of 1,000 degrees while reducing the car’s weight by 20kg.

The Bentayga Speed’s alloy wheels measure 22 inches in diameter. They’re part of a visual upgrade package that involves a large boot spoiler, front bumper enhancements, new chrome trim and Speed badges on the front doors. As is now customary with Speed models, the front and rear lights are darker than those fitted to the standard car.

Interior

This is the first Bentayga to feature Alcantara suede trim inside, which is also used in the company’s racing cars, although you can switch back to full leather upholstery at no extra cost. You’ll find plenty of Speed badges on the headrests and tread plates, and a new colour selection is available for the seats. Bentley has made relatively few changes to the interior, but it’s already one of the most luxurious you’ll find in a car.

Orders for the Bentley Bentayga Speed will open before the year is out. Bentley hasn’t revealed any prices yet, but we’d expect it to cost around £200,000 before any options.