Bentley Bentayga

The Bentley Bentayga lineup in India revolves around the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 that produces 542 bhp and 770 Nm. Power delivery is instant, peak torque is available low down in the revs, so overtakes are a breeze even at highway speeds. 0-100 km/h takes around 4.4-4.5 seconds, which is phenomenal for a SUV of this size.

The 8-speed automatic gearbox remains smooth in Comfort mode and more assertive in Sport. Cylinder deactivation enables the V8 to operate as a V4 under light loads, which is more efficient while cruising on the highway.

The Bentayga Speed (global spec) increases the output to 641 bhp and 850 Nm, reducing the 0 to 100 acceleration time to 3.6 seconds, and it reduces the weight by 42 kg compared to the outgoing W12. 

Chassis tech defines the experience. Bentley Dynamic Ride incorporates 48V active anti-roll control to keep the body flat in corners, but decouples on straight roads for outstanding ride comfort. Rear-wheel steering on the EWB enhances agility in tight Indian city spaces.

This is an engine for buyers who prefer easy-going, torque-rich driving over high rev theatrics.

Each Bentayga variant changes the focus slightly, from balanced luxury to rear-seat dominance.

Bentayga V8

The foundation model with full Bentley craftsmanship, with 21-inch wheels and Dynamic Ride. Ideal for owners who want to self-drive but don't want the extended length.

Bentayga S

Adds Blackline Specification, 22-inch wheels, Sports Exhaust, and 15% stiffer Sport mode. Best suited to owners who like sharper handling and more visual aggression.

Bentayga Azure

Focuses on wellbeing with 22-way comfort seats, Touring Specification and enhanced cabin quietness. Aimed at buyers who are more interested in long-distance comfort.

Bentayga EWB

Adds 180mm completely to the rear space, plus adds electronic all-wheel steering and power closing rear doors. It turns the SUV into a chauffeur-grade product.

Bentayga EWB Azure First Edition

Combines extended wheelbase with Azure wellness features plus Diamond Illumination and premium audio. This is the most indulgent version in India.

Given its size and performance, the Bentley Bentayga's mileage is secondary.

• V8 Variants (ARAI/WLTP): 7.6–8.2 kmpl

• Real-World City: 3–5 kmpl

• Highway: 7–9 kmpl

The higher quoted figure from Azure (8.6kmpl) is because of lighter load conditions. Fuel quality (95 RON recommended), idle time, and traffic congestion have a huge effect on real-world returns.

The Bentley Bentayga is a hybrid of muscular proportions with restrained detailing. The wide-stance, flared rear haunches and crystal-cut LED headlamps have the effect of creating presence, but without the excess drama. EWB models are 5,305mm long, but proportions are elegant because of the seamless integration of the additional 180mm. The vertical vane grille on Azure and EWB variants gives it a limousine-like look.

There are wheel options of 21-inch to 23-inch on higher trims. Blackline Specification has replaced chrome with gloss black for a more contemporary look. Heated wet-arm wipers and 82-LED matrix headlamps are indicative of Bentley's engineering in depth.

When it comes to the interiors, Bentayga feels like a handcrafted lounge rather than an SUV cabin. Each interior takes about 100 hours to complete. EWB variants are available with Airline Seat Specification with 40-degree recline, Postural Adjust (177 micro pressure changes), and auto climate seat sensing. Diamond Illumination is used to create ambient light through perforated leather.

A 10.9-inch infotainment screen is available for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Rear passengers have twin 10.1-inch screens and a Touch Screen Remote. Audio choices include Bentley Signature, Bang & Olufsen (1,500W) and Naim for Bentley (1,780W). Acoustic glass and insulated wheel arches ensure that it is one of the quietest SUVs in India.

The Bentley Bentayga incorporates safety in its chassis design. Touring Specification includes night vision, adaptive cruise control, head-up display and Bentley Safeguard Plus emergency braking. City Specification adds a 360-degree camera, pedestrian warning, traffic sign tecognition and rear cross traffic alert. Electronic all-wheel steering and dynamic ride help to improve stability during emergency manoeuvres. Carbon ceramic brakes (optional) offer enormous stopping power. ISOFIX and several airbags provide occupant safety.

The Bentley Bentayga operates in the ultra-luxury SUV bracket where buyers are more interested in the craftsmanship, rear-seat experience, and performance balance.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan

The Cullinan is focused on supreme rear-seat isolation and an unmatched "magic carpet" ride. It is significantly more expensive and is aimed more at chauffeur-driven ownership, while the Bentayga is a more engaging driving car without compromising luxury.

Lamborghini Urus SE

The Urus is sharper, louder and more visually dramatic. However, although it focuses on aggressive performance, the Bentayga offers a quieter cabin, deeper material quality and a more composed long-distance touring character.

Aston Martin DBX707

The DBX707 is a direct competitor to the Bentayga Speed on sheer pace. It is more athletic in feel, but lacks the Extended Wheelbase rear-seat innovation and wellness technology, which gives the Bentayga wider appeal in India.

In India, the Bentley Bentayga sets itself as the most balanced ultra-luxury SUV, more engaging to drive than a Cullinan, more comfortable than a Urus and more exclusive than a Maybach. It's aimed at those seeking the combination of both chauffeur-grade comfort and genuine performance credibility in one package.

Here is a balanced view of what ownership truly involves.

The Bentley Bentayga is not all about headline-grabbing theatrics. It is about ease: the ability to carry four or five adults in almost silent comfort and still provide sports car-rivalling acceleration when needed. The torque-rich nature of the V8, coupled with sophisticated chassis technology such as Bentley Dynamic Ride and rear-wheel steering (EWB), means it is never unwieldy in spite of its size.

But do note that ownership demands realistic expectations. Fuel economy in city traffic is modest, service costs are substantial, and its price puts it firmly in a rarefied bracket. That said, for buyers who want one vehicle that can serve as a high-speed intercity tourer, a rear-seat luxury lounge and a statement of understated prestige, the Bentayga is still one of the most complete ultra-luxury SUVs available in India today.