Bentley Goes Diesel with the Bentley Bentayga

The Bentley Bentayga is used to blazing trails. When rumor of a Bentley SUV began circulating years ago, many auto aficionados were skeptical. An SUV is, after all, so… utilitarian. This brand has become synonymous with opulence and luxury. The Bentayga allayed any concerns – and became the fastest SUV in the world. It’s doing it again: Bentley is introducing its first ever diesel engine, and it is housed in the powerful body of the mold-breaking Bentayga.

Diesel, the Bentley Way

While high-end automakers from BMW and Porsche to Mercedes and Audi have integrated diesel technology into their luxury vehicles, Bentley had eschewed these engines. They didn’t dip their toes in; they plunged right into diesel territory. The Bentayga Diesel boasts a triple-charged 4.0 liter V8. This beast generates 429 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque at 1000 rpm. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, this diesel beauty reaches a top speed of 168 mph.

Of course, one of the most prominent benefits of diesel engines is their enhanced fuel economy. The Bentayga Diesel offers an estimated range of about 621 miles, making stops at the pump much fewer and farther between.

Aesthetically, there are a few tweaks that distinguish the diesel model. It features V8 Diesel badging, newly designed tailpipes, chic black matrix grille with chrome surround and central bar, and 20 inch alloy wheels (optional 21 inch also available).

The only problem with the Bentley Bentayga Diesel? It will not be coming to the US. This model is only available in Australia, Europe, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Russia,  South Africa, and Taiwan. The US has traditionally shied away from diesel vehicles – perhaps this will be the next trail for the intrepid Bentayga to blaze.

The good news is that you can still access the world-renowned Bentley SUV – gas-powered and even more powerful. Visit Braman for more information and, better still, a test drive.