Bentley Bentayga V8 Added to Lineup

Because not everyone needs 12 cylinders, Bentley is offering a smaller powertrain for the Bentayga SUV.

A 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 gasoline engine will arrive for the Bentayga this year in global markets including North America. Bentley says the new model should make 542 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque. Until now, Bentley has only offered the Bentayga with a W-12 engine making 600 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, and outside the U.S., a diesel V-8 with 429 hp and the same amount of twist as its larger sibling.

Bentley estimates a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds for the new Bentayga. It will be quicker off the line than the diesel (4.6 seconds) but slower than the W-12 (4.0 seconds), according to Bentley estimates. We tested a Euro-spec Bentayga W-12 hitting the mark in just 3.5 seconds, however, so the new V8 model could also be quicker than expected.

To improve fuel economy, the engine in the Bentley Bentayga V8 deactivates four of its eight cylinders in situations that don’t demand full power. Drivers shouldn’t feel the switch-over because it occurs in just 20 milliseconds, the automaker says. Stop-start technology also helps maximize fuel economy and contribute to a range of 464 miles on a single tank. And despite having a lesser V-8 under the hood, Bentley didn’t compromise the model’s off-road capability. It features specific settings such as Snow and Grass, Dirt and Gravel, Mud and Trail, and Sand Dunes. Hill Descent Control, permanent all-wheel drive, and a multi-mode air suspension help in this endeavor.

The Bentley Bentayga V8 will offer new optional carbon-ceramic brakes. It’s said to be the largest and most powerful brake system Bentley has ever offered, as well as the largest front brake system available on any production car. The brake discs measure 440 mm in diameter at the front and 370 mm in the rear.

Also look for “twin-quad” tailpipes and red brake calipers, as well as a black grille accented with chrome. Inside the cabin, you’ll find a new high-gloss carbon-fiber finish that adorns the center console, doors, and other areas of the interior. There’s a new wood- and hide-trimmed steering wheel that uses a solid wood base and is available in seven different veneer finishes.

Check out the configurator for the Bentley Bentayga V8 here.

Bentley is expected to add a plug-in variant. And rumor has it Bentley is mulling a second SUV offering to slot below the Bentayga.

Source: Bentley

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