The new Bentley Bentayga S has been unveiled as an SUV for those seeking something a bit sportier than the regular V8, but without going to extremes with the Speed model.
Although it attempts to plug the gap between the two models, its 4,0-litre twin-turbo V8 is still in the same state of tune as the base model, with 404 kW and 770 N.m on tap. This means the same 4,5 second 0-100 km/h sprint time and 290 km/h top speed.
However, the Bentley Bentayga S is set apart from the regular V8 by a raft of sporty features, including a new sports exhaust system that promises a “more sporting soundtrack”. Clients can also look forward to a unique ‘Sport’ calibration for the Dynamic Ride suspension system. The new Sport mode claims to reduce body roll and deliver an improved steering feel. Bentley has also re-tuned the Torque Vectoring system to improve overall agility.
“For the first time since the launch of Bentayga in 2015, an S version is now available – reflecting feedback from the huge number of customers that enjoy the dynamic performance of their Bentayga on-road,” Bentley says.
“Building on Bentley’s established ‘S’ brand, the new enhanced sports Bentayga provides an even more engaging drive, with Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti-roll control fitted as standard and an enhanced Sports chassis mode.”
Visually, the Bentayga S is distinguished by new 22-inch wheels that are available in three finishes, as well as a Blackline Specification that includes dark-tinted headlights and black treatment for the door mirrors, side sills and lower bumpers. Also part of the deal is a larger rear spoiler and S badging on the front doors.
The cabin gets unique Alcantara upholstery as well as colour accents on the instrument panel, centre console and door panels, while the digital driver’s information panel is inherited from the Bentayga Speed. Furthermore, the new ‘fluted’ seat design is available in four-, five- and seven-seat configurations.