Introduction to the 2025 Bentley Bentayga Speed
The Bentley Bentayga is celebrating its tenth anniversary, and to mark this milestone, the brand has reintroduced the performance-oriented Speed variant. The new Bentayga Speed has been repositioned to stand out in a crowded luxury SUV market that has evolved significantly since its initial launch. Gone is the W12 engine; instead, the Speed now features a twin-turbo V8 engine, stiffened suspension, and various mechanical tweaks to enhance agility and responsiveness.
Exterior Design and Engineering
The 2025 Bentley Bentayga Speed’s exterior is subtly differentiated from other Bentayga models through features like red brake calipers (which can be customized), optional 23-inch wheels (the largest ever on a Bentley), and ‘Speed’ badges on the front doors. The headlamp internals are darkened, and bright chrome elements are replaced with dark chrome. The optional titanium Akrapovic exhaust system not only reduces weight by 12.5kg but also produces a distinctive, aggressive sound.
Interior Space and Comfort
Despite not being available in extended-wheelbase (EWB) form, the Bentayga Speed offers ample space, comfort, and luxury. The rear seats can be configured as a single bench or split with powered chairs featuring heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The interior boasts rich materials, including thick hides and generous stitching, although some plastic elements on the front center console detract from the overall luxury feel. Extensive customization options are available, including unique trim levels like stone instead of wood.
Features and Safety
The Bentayga Speed comes well-equipped with standard features such as a 590W, 12-speaker audio system, Matrix LED headlamps, 8 airbags, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, park assist, onboard WiFi, and a digital assistant. A 10.9-inch central touchscreen provides intuitive control, complemented by tactile physical controls on the center console. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are also available.
Performance and Refinement
The twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 650hp and 850Nm, making it more powerful than the previous W12 engine. With a 0-100kph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 310kph, the Bentayga Speed is the quickest and fastest Bentayga yet. The performance is significantly enhanced in Sport mode, where launch control is available. The new sports exhaust, particularly the optional titanium Akrapovic system, adds to the driving excitement with its aggressive sound.
Ride Comfort and Handling
One of the Bentayga Speed’s standout features is its ability to balance luxury with sportiness. The suspension is 15 percent stiffer than the base Bentayga, and features like rear-wheel steering, active anti-roll bars, and a limited-slip differential contribute to its agility. The car’s handling is remarkably responsive, feeling lighter on its feet than its size would suggest. The optional 23-inch wheels with Pirelli P Zero tires further enhance its performance capabilities.
Price and Verdict
The decision to use a non-hybrid V8 engine instead of the more powerful PHEV powertrain available in other models like the Continental GT Speed was a deliberate choice by Bentley to create a purer, more engaging driving experience. While the exact India price is awaited, it is expected to be well over ₹5 crore (ex-showroom). The Bentayga Speed successfully carves out a niche between stripped hyper tags and rather than following the trend towards extreme electrification or hybrid performance.
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