Bentley has created the Bentayga Speed, billing it as the world’s fastest production SUV, in relation to its 3.9-second 0-100 km/h time and top speed of 306 km/h.
The sport utility is the latest member of the vaunted Bentley Speed models that date back to the Continental GT of 2007, and builds on the Bentayga that set the production SUV record at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb last year.
To hint at its performance, the Bentayga Speed is enhanced with dark tinted headlights and front grilles, unique 22-inch wheels finished in silver, dark tint or black, body coloured side skirts, high rear spoiler and Speed signature badging.
Inside, it features a new design theme, with “swooshes” (contrast edging) on the door and door grabs, edge of the seat cushions and backrests, and on the lower console, contrast stitching on the diamond quilting on doors and Alcantara seats, and Speed badging on the instrument panel, seat backs (replacing the Bentley wings) and illuminated door sill.
Like all Bentaygas, power comes from the 6.0-litre twin-turbo W-12, which here makes 626 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, distributed to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic, and also features the electronic differential lock and up to eight Drive Dynamics modes. A firmed-up suspension is fitted with electric active roll control that reacts nearly instantly to lateral rolling forces to help maintain handling stability and improve ride comfort.
And to make sure passers-by realize you have a performance-enhanced Bentayga, there is an enhance character exhaust note on start-up and on downshifts.
Buyers can personalize their Bentayga Speeds with carbon ceramic brakes, 22-way adjustable front seats with massage function, carbon fibre fascia panels, individual seating for four, leather seating, rear-seat entertainment system and interior mood lighting.
The Bentayga Speed will debut at the Geneva International Motor Show in a couple weeks, and go on sale later in 2019.