The luxury car manufacturer begins a new era with the 2025 Bentley Bentayga Speed. Bentley has doubled down on internal combustion and plug-in hybrid powertrains after revising its original ambition to become all electric by 2030 to 2035 or later. A tuned twin-turbocharged V8 engine replaces the classic W12 engine in the Bentayga Speed, which is at the vanguard of this change.
Even with the loss of cylinders, this SUV’s performance qualities remain intact. Bentley has made significant efforts to increase power and economy by utilizing larger fuel injectors and turbochargers, resulting in a top speed of 310 km/h and nearly 500 kW.
Design & Features
The Bentayga Speed’s design carries on Bentley’s heritage of providing the highest level of personalization. The model we reviewed (in the photos) has practically all of its exterior blacked out. This includes the trim, logos, and grille, all of which are customized to the tastes of the buyer.
Along with low-profile 35-series tires and air suspension with adjustable damping, it also debuts the Bentayga’s first-ever 23-inch alloy wheels. There are currently six different colors available for even brake callipers. Bentley provides a variety of custom options through Mulliner for those seeking even greater exclusivity, enabling customers to choose everything from carbon ceramic brake systems to pinstripe accents.
The titanium Akrapovič exhaust system, which is an optional feature, is a notable highlight. It produces a deep-throated, aggressive sound that is unlike anything Bentley has ever produced. It reduces the vehicle’s weight by around 12 kg in addition to sounding crazy. The system’s crackles and pops, which enhance even slow driving, go very well with the sport driving option.
By replacing the Bentayga’s twin-outlet exhaust with a quad-pipe system, this exhaust layout also modifies the vehicle’s rear end appearance. This vehicle also has clear taillights, which are popular again and harken back to the early 2000s tuner culture.
Interior
Stepping inside, The Bentayga Speed’s interior preserves Bentley’s unparalleled craftsmanship. Traditional materials like wood and piano black are available to buyers, or they can opt for something unusual like actual stone door inlays. From carbon fiber to personalized clock faces to seat embroidery and pinstriping, the cabin’s design places a strong emphasis on customization.
Despite sharing corporate DNA, the infotainment system feels slow when compared to more recent systems from Porsche or Audi, even though it is fully functional. The distinctive organ stop-style air vents and completely digital instrument cluster, however, still have that vintage Bentley flair.
Luxury continues in the back with an available longer wheelbase for more room. The four-seat variant we reviewed has window shades, a panoramic glass roof, reclining second-row seats, and a separate touch panel for seat and climate settings.
In order to provide first-class comfort for the backseat passengers, the middle armrest lowers to reveal cupholders and charging connections. Even when it is not hybrid, the boot is roomy for a luxury SUV and opens with a Bentley soft-touch button.
Engine, Power & Perfomance
Under the hood, the Bentley Bentayga Speed The same twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine seen in other Bentleys. With more airflow than the other Bentaygas, engineers were able to produce 641 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque.
In comparison to the current lower Bentayga trims and the retired Bentayga S, that is 59 pound-feet and 99 horses. After engine downsizing, the preceding Bentayga Speed, a well-known spec-sheet bracketing, had 37 fewer pound-feet and 15 more horsepower.
The Bentayga Speed’s ability to mix comfort and performance on the road is surprising. In just over three seconds, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h while weighing close to 2.5 tons. Particularly on low-friction surfaces, the dynamic handling pack and brake-based torque vectoring enable fun rear-end spinning.
In fact, this rear-biased AWD arrangement allows for a drift mode. The air suspension and adjustable dampers keep things calm and comfortable even if the ride is 15% firmer than it was previously.
On the Road
When you drive the Bentayga Speed, you discover an aspect of Bentley that hasn’t been thoroughly examined before: aggression. With a soundscape full of abrupt downshifts and overrun pops, the sport mode allows you to fully enjoy the Akrapovič exhaust’s audio experience.
This SUV feels alive when driven, in addition to having a quick appearance. Although there is some turbo lag at low speeds, especially when applying the throttle suddenly, this is a necessary trade-off to preserve the classic twin-turbo V8. While smooth, the 8-speed automatic transmission lacks the snappiness of a dual-clutch.
The developers at Bentley purposefully chose a more planted and natural feel over four-wheel steering, which flattened out the Bentayga’s cornering performance. Consequently, the ride seems more natural rather than unduly computerized, and the steering keeps its input. However, this isn’t a track-focused SUV; while it can compete in aggressive driving, its main objective is to provide smooth, secure performance with a dash of luxury.
Pricing and should you buy it?
The 2025 Bentley Bentayga Speed is more than just a luxury SUV; it makes a statement. It symbolizes Bentley’s growing vision, which includes performance, personalization, and combustion for as long as regulations permit.
With a price tag that will most likely exceed six figures, this is a vehicle for the select few who want it all: power, prestige, and customisation. If you want an SUV that can travel in comfort, roar like a supercar, and be customized to your exact specifications, the Bentayga Speed delivers on all fronts.
Source: Bentley Motors
