For the first time branded with the S label, the British SUV is more sporty without being more powerful. Really ?
In French, the “S” is one of the plural marks. But at Bentley, that letter does not necessarily mean that there are more horses. So branded for the first time since its appearance in 2015, the Bentayga is mechanically related to the “base” V8 version.
Understand that its 4.0 biturbo, a block widely used within the Volkswagen group, both under the hood of some Audi and at Porsche or Lamborghini, However, develops 550 hp and a whopping 770 Nm of torque. There are entry-level more modest than others … Enough to propel these more than two tons of opulence from 0 to 100 km / h in 4 ”5 and up to 290 km / h in peak.
From the point of view of pure performance, the Speed version and its monumental W12 therefore remain unattainable. As a reminder, the mastodon of the Kingdom then counts 635 hp and accelerates to 100 km / h in just 4 ”and speeds up to 306 km / h.
Settle on a Bentayga S, is it shame? Not necessarily. First, the 8-cylinder promises to be more communicative thanks to the adoption of a new sports exhaust, recognizable by its outputs split in two. But the driving sensations should be even more take advantage of the changes made to the chassis.
Active roll control, supplied with 48 V and present as standard here, Shoulders a controlled suspension whose air springs are stiffened by 15% in Sport mode. In a program of the same name, the ESP also observes a specific algorithm to give the driver more freedom.
Bentley did not go so far as to complete the all-wheel drive with a true piloted limited-slip differential. But the torque distribution system by braking between the right and left wheels is recalibrated to make it more directive.
This “S” version also asserts itself aesthetically. It is distinguished on the outside by a few touches of black, a generous spoiler that covers the rear window and huge 22-inch rims. On board, the Alcantara reigns supreme, leaving only tiny spaces in chrome and leather.
But better still, expected sportier, this Bentayga does not neglect the practical aspects. No question of ignoring the 4, 5 and 7 seater configurations. If you ever wanted to treat yourself to the record for the highest number of passengers shaken simultaneously …
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