Bentley has launched a fresh iteration of its Bentley Bentayga Speed, swapping out the classic W12 engine for a V8. Despite having fewer cylinders, the new V8 delivers even greater power than the previous W12 in the outgoing Bentayga Speed — and it achieves this without depending on hybrid technology.
Bentley’s other models, such as the Continental GT Speed and Flying Spur Speed, have embraced the brand’s new V8-based Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, delivering a combined 771 horsepower as a successor to their previous W12 engines (which were discontinued in 2024). However, the Bentayga Speed takes a different approach, featuring a conventional twin-turbo V8 engine under the hood instead.
New V8 Packs 15 More Horsepower Than Previous W12
The latest V8 engine, a tuned version of the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 used in other Bentley models, produces 641 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Compared to the outgoing Bentayga Speed’s twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12, this new powerplant offers 15 more horsepower, although torque is slightly reduced by 37 lb-ft.
The Bentayga Speed comes standard with a sporty exhaust system featuring a pair of oval tips. For those seeking a more aggressive sound, an optional titanium exhaust from performance specialist Akrapovič is available, recognizable by its four round tips.
Performance highlights feature a 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.4 seconds, thanks to a new Launch Control system. This marks a full second quicker than the Bentayga V8 S and half a second faster than the previous W12-powered Bentayga Speed. The top speed reaches 193 mph, although achieving this requires equipping the Bentayga Speed with optional carbon-ceramic brake rotors.
A Bentley Built for Drifting
Bentley’s engineers have also refined the chassis to fully harness the new V8’s capabilities. On models equipped with carbon-ceramic rotors, activating the new ESC Dynamic mode within Sport mode eases the electronic stability control’s grip, allowing drivers to initiate controlled drifts by steering sharply and applying power.
Bentley has upgraded the brake-based torque vectoring in Sport mode to provide sharper turn-in during aggressive cornering and deliver increased power when accelerating out of turns. Enhancing the Bentayga Speed’s agility even further is the addition of rear-wheel steering.
In Sport mode, the suspension damping stiffness is increased by 15 percent, further improving handling and control when pushing the Bentayga Speed to its limits.
Distinctive Design Touches Inside and Out
Bentley has introduced several exclusive design elements to set the Bentayga Speed apart from other models in its SUV range. On the exterior, typical chrome accents receive a darkened finish, complemented by smoked headlights and taillights for a more aggressive look. The SUV comes standard with new 22-inch wheels, while customers choosing the carbon-ceramic brakes can upgrade to Bentley’s largest-ever 23-inch wheel design.
Inside, the Bentayga Speed’s cabin showcases its performance-focused nature through distinctive visual details and luxurious finishes. A Speed-specific driver display, along with exclusive badging on the passenger fascia, treadplates, and seats, highlights its status as the top performance model in the Bentayga range. The dark exterior tones continue inside, complemented by Bentley’s signature diamond quilting pattern adorning the seats and door panels.
More Hybrid Options Expected for the Bentayga
For those interested in an electrified Bentayga, Bentley currently offers the Bentayga Hybrid. This model pairs a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 456 horsepower. It also provides a limited pure electric driving range for short trips.
Bentley has yet to confirm if the Bentayga will adopt its new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain or the slightly less powerful High Performance Hybrid variant, rated at 670 horsepower, which is already available in the Continental GT and Flying Spur models. However, given Bentley’s commitment to full electrification, it’s likely only a matter of time before one of these hybrid systems makes its way into the Bentayga. Additionally, Bentley is developing its first fully electric vehicle—a smaller SUV positioned below the Bentayga—set to launch next year.
