Bentley Bentayga Buyers Guide

The unveiling of the Bentley Bentayga in 2016 caused a groundbreaking moment for the brand. With the Bentayga, Bentley ventured into ultra-luxury SUVs, a segment that was rapidly gaining popularity among the elite clientele. 

This move not only expanded Bentley’s prestigious portfolio but also set a new standard in luxury SUV craftsmanship. The Bentayga was designed to surpass expectations, combining Bentley’s signature elegance with the versatility and power of an SUV, thereby establishing a new benchmark for luxury, comfort, and performance in its class. 

The Bentayga was equipped with a powerful 6.0-liter W12 twin-turbocharged engine, a marvel of automotive technology that delivers an astonishing 600 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. This engine allows the Bentayga to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds. 

Coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the Bentayga offers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and supremely smooth, making it an ideal choice for both spirited driving and relaxed cruising.

The Bentley Bentayga’s cabin sets a benchmark in luxury, mirroring the opulence of a Mulsanne sedan. It boasts the finest leather upholstery, authentic metal accents, and a selection of seven exquisite, hand-crafted wood veneers, enhancing its lavish interior. 

Opting for the four-passenger configuration introduces 18-way power seats for all occupants, complete with heating, ventilation, and massage features, elevating comfort to new levels. Additionally, the Bentayga offers an extraordinary dash-mounted Mulliner Tourbillon mechanical clock by Breitling, available in mother-of-pearl or black ebony with diamond indexes, although its price rivals that of the vehicle itself. 

The launch of the 608 First Edition models adds an exclusive touch with diamond-quilted leather, embroidered seats, custom stitching, and ambient lighting, further testament to its bespoke craftsmanship. With 17.1 cubic feet of cargo space and a fold-down “event” seat for tailgating, the Bentayga merges functionality with luxury. 

Complementing these opulent features, passengers enjoy a state-of-the-art infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a custom audio setup for a superior listening experience.

The inclusion of advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and night vision not only enhances safety but also adds to the vehicle’s convenience and cutting-edge technology profile.

In addition, it is worth noting that the Bentley Bentayga is built on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB platform, a foundation it shares with the second-generation Audi Q7. Some of its competitors to the Bentley Bentaya include the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, Land Rover Range Rover, Lamborghini Urus, Ferrari Purosangue, and Rolls Royce Cullinan. 

The Bentley Bentayga represents the pinnacle of what it means to be one of the ultimate luxury-branded SUVs.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2017 Bentely Bentayga

In 2017, Bentley introduced 608 special Launch Edition Bentayga models available worldwide, equipped with distinctive 22-inch two-tone wheels, Union Jack badges, and illuminated tread plates, though limited to just 10 choices in exterior paint colors. 

Further enhancing its exclusivity, Bentley presents the Bentayga with Mulliner customization options, offering an extensive selection of 90 exterior paint colors and six additional option packages, which encompass two unique styling treatments.

The starting price for the 2017 Bentley Bentayga was $231,000.

2018 Bentley Bentayga

For the 2018 model year, the Bentayga broadens its palette with an expanded range of color and trim options, alongside the exceptionally versatile Mulliner variant, offering endless customization possibilities for this already extravagant SUV. 

Among these bespoke options is a unique picnic set, featuring silverware, French porcelain, and Bentley-embossed champagne glasses. An optional Breitling Tourbillon clock, adding a lavish $170,000 to the price, can adorn the dashboard’s center. 

Additionally, the 2018 Bentayga introduces a three-row, seven-seat layout, marking its debut into enhanced passenger accommodation.

The starting price for the 2018 Bentley Bentaya depends on which model you choose:Onyx Edition: $201,425

Activity Edition: $221,425Signature: $235,525Black Edition: $245,425Mulliner: $304,425

2019 Bentley Bentayga

For the 2019 model year, the Bentley Bentayga lineup presents a diverse range of powertrain options. This includes a 443 hp hybrid configuration combining a 3.0-liter V6 with an electric motor, and a 542 hp twin-turbocharged V8 engine that roars to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, offering a distinctively robust sound; the hybrid model’s performance remains untested by us. 

Also available is a 600 hp W-12 engine, which has demonstrated an impressive 3.6-second sprint to 60 mph in testing, showcasing smoother power delivery and superior overtaking capabilities. 

The Bentayga Speed was also introduced in 2019, claiming the title of the world’s fastest SUV with a top speed of 190 mph, upgrades the W-12 to produce 626 hp, a claim that rivals like the Lamborghini Urus may contest. 

Regardless of the chosen power unit, all Bentayga variants are equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and feature all-wheel drive as standard.

The starting price for the 2019 Bentley Bentayga V8 AWD was $171,000, the Bentley Bentayga W12 AWD at $235,000, and the Bentayga Mulliner AWD at $301,000.

2020 Bentley Bentayga

For the 2020 model year, the Bentley Bentayga sees minimal updates. The lineup welcomes a hybrid powertrain, pairing a V6 engine with an electric motor, as its new base offering. 

The Bentayga is now available with two seating configurations: a seven-seat option spread over three rows, or a more intimate two-row setup accommodating four passengers, phasing out the previous five-seat configuration.

The starting price for the 2020 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid was $166,000, the Bentley Bentayga V8 at $174,000, the Bentley Bentayga Design Edition at $209,000 and the Bentley Bentayga Speed at $246,000.

2021 Bentley Bentayga

For the 2021 model year, Bentley has refined the Bentayga’s aesthetics, introducing a more pronounced grille, redesigned taillights, and fresh wheel patterns. 

This revamp draws inspiration from the sleek, contemporary design language of Bentley’s latest Continental GT coupe and Flying Spur sedan, signaling a cohesive brand identity. Inside, the Bentayga’s interior has been significantly upgraded, featuring a larger 10.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, an updated dashboard layout, and enhanced connectivity with Apple CarPlay. 

Additionally, the rear-seat entertainment system has been improved for better passenger engagement during journeys. A new addition is the wireless smartphone charging pad, ensuring devices remain powered up and integrated seamlessly into the Bentayga’s luxurious interior.

The starting price for the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid remained the same as the previous year, however, there was a price increase on the Bentley Bentayga V8 at $183,000 ($9,000 more than the previous year), the Bentley Bentayga First Edition at $225,000 and the Bentley Bentayga Speed at $251,000 ($5,000 more than the previous year).

2022 Bentley Bentayga

For the 2022 model year, the Bentley Bentayga lineup is expanded with the introduction of the dynamic S model, adding a dash of sportiness to the range. 

This new variant adopts several design elements from the high-performance Speed model yet is propelled by the Bentayga’s foundational 542-horsepower V8 engine. Enhancements such as a sport-tuned suspension, larger 22-inch wheels, and a specially designed sport exhaust system distinguish the S model from the standard V8 configuration, offering a more spirited driving experience. 

Additionally, the rest of the Bentayga collection benefits from the availability of carbon fiber rims as an exclusive option via the Mulliner customization program, allowing for further personalization and performance refinement across the lineup.

The starting price for the 2022 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid remained the same as the previous year, however, there was a price increase on the Bentley Bentayga V8 at $190,000 ($7,000 more than the previous year), the Bentley Bentayga S started at $222,000, and the Bentley Bentayga Speed started at $262,000 ($11,000 more than the previous year).

2023 Bentley Bentayga

For the 2023 model year, Bentley introduces an elegant extended-wheelbase version to the Bentayga collection, catering to those who prioritize space and comfort. 

This addition significantly enhances rear passenger space, allowing for a more luxurious and relaxed travel experience. The extended version is equipped with a rear-wheel steering system, improving maneuverability and reducing the SUV’s turning circle for more agile urban navigation. 

It also debuts Bentley’s innovative Diamond Illumination ambient lighting feature, which elegantly integrates lights through meticulously hand-stitched leather panels, adding a captivating visual element to the cabin’s atmosphere.

The luxuriously appointed rear seats in this model offer up to 40 degrees of recline, complemented by an extendable footrest from the front passenger seat, enabling the right rear passenger to fully relax and unwind. 

These seats also come with the option of a massage function, enhancing the comfort level further, and buyers can choose between a full-length center console for added luxury or an additional middle seat for extra seating capacity.

Joining the Bentayga range in 2023 are two new plug-in hybrid variants, the Azure and the S, each blending luxury with efficiency and performance. These models boast an improved power output and an extended electric-only driving range, offering 455 horsepower and a 27-mile range, surpassing the standard PHEV model’s specifications. 

Additionally, a limited-edition Odyssean model enriches the lineup, limited to just 70 units. This special edition emphasizes sustainability, featuring eco-friendly interior materials like open-pore Koa wood and sophisticated tweed upholstery, exclusively paired with the hybrid powertrain.

The price for the 2023 Bentayga now starts at $200,000 for the Bentayga Hybrid model, the Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase V8 starts at $229,000, the Bentley Bentayga Speed starts at $267,000 and the Bentley Bentayga Azure First Edition started at $281,000. 

2024 Bentley Bentayga

For the 2024 model year, the Bentley Bentayga introduces the prestigious Mulliner variant as its new flagship model, featuring distinctive exterior design cues and offering an unprecedented level of interior customization with nearly 4,000 potential color combinations.

Bentley emphasizes the use of more eco-friendly materials within the Mulliner, including wool or recycled nylon carpets and leather that’s tanned with a byproduct of olive oil, highlighting a shift towards sustainability without compromising on luxury. 

This exclusive trim is available solely with the Bentayga’s extended-wheelbase configuration and the robust V-8 engine, ensuring a unique blend of space, performance, and bespoke luxury.

Across the rest of the Bentayga range, subtle yet refined styling updates are introduced, including modifications to the grille and wheel designs, enhancing its sophisticated and dynamic appearance. The sporty S and elegant Azure trims now benefit from the addition of a rear-wheel steering system, improving agility and handling. 

Additionally, an option for luxurious individual bucket seats in the second row has been made available, elevating passenger comfort. As Bentley continues its transition towards more environmentally conscious powertrains, the iconic W-12 engine has been retired from the Bentayga lineup

The price for the 2024 Bentley Bentaya starts at $205,000 for the V8 and Hybrid model, the Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase V8 starts at $236,000 and the Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase Mulliner V8 starts at $339,000.

Bentley Bentayga Common Problems

The Bentley Bentayga shares its platform with the Audi Q7. This unique partnership allows it to inherit Audi’s renowned reliability and dependability. However, like any vehicle, the Bentayga is not immune to experiencing some issues over its lifetime.

Keep in mind, that it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Infotainment and Climate Control Malfunctions: Owners have reported the infotainment system freezing or lagging and issues with Bluetooth connectivity. Climate control problems include insufficient heating or cooling and noisy operation. Regular updates and maintenance are recommended to address these issues.

2016-2018 Bentayga W12 –  High Oil Consumption and Brake Rotor Warping: Noted for high oil consumption and brake rotor issues, Bentley released software updates and technical bulletins to mitigate these problems. Owners should monitor oil levels and brake performance closely.

2019-2020 Bentayga V8 –  Coolant Leaks and Transmission Overheating: These models may suffer from coolant leaks due to faulty water pumps or damaged coolant hoses, and transmission overheating, possibly leading to “limp mode” or failure. Regular coolant system and transmission checks are advised.

2021-2022 Bentayga Hybrid – Battery Charging Failure and Software Bugs: Reported issues include battery charging failures reducing electric-only range and software glitches affecting vehicle performance. Software updates have been released, although some problems may persist.

Air Suspension Issues: Air leaks from the suspension system can lead to uneven riding and potential failure, especially if the warning signs are ignored. It’s crucial to address any air suspension warnings promptly to prevent extensive repairs.

Recalls

2017-2023 Bentayga vehicles

Fuel system, gasoline: Delivery: Fuel pump (Recall no. 23V592000)

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire. The fuel supply module wiring can overheat and melt the flange, resulting in a fuel leak.

2022-2023 Bentayga vehicles

Seats (Recall no. 23V386000)

An unlocked seat rail can move in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to occupants. The second-row seats may be installed incorrectly and not locked on all seat rails.

2021-2022 Bentayga vehicles

Back over prevention: Display function (Recall no. 22V743000)

A rearview camera screen that displays a blank image reduces the driver’s view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Due to a software error, the rearview camera image may be blank when the car is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, “Rear Visibility.”

2021-2022 Bentayga vehicles

Seats (Recall no. 22V257000)

An unlocked seat rail could move in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to occupants. The second row seats may be installed incorrectly, without being locked on all seat rails.

2021-2022 Bentayga vehicles

Air bags: Frontal (Recall no. 21V975000)

The incorrect information may change how occupants position themselves in relation to the air bags, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash. The owner’s manual incorrectly states that the air bag system will not deploy when the “Passenger Airbag On” symbol is illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Crash Protection.”

2021 Bentayga vehicles

Electronic stability control (esc): Control module: Software (Recall no. 21V647000)

A malfunctioning ESC system can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Incorrect software for the chassis control module may cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system to malfunction.

2021 Bentayga vehicles

Seat belts (Recall no. 21V605000)

An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash. The front passenger seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Crash Protection.”

2021 Bentayga vehicles

Suspension: Rear: Axle: Non-powered axle assembly (Recall no. 21V276000)

A broken lock nut may misalign the rear axle, causing a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.

2019-2020 Bentayga vehicles

Fuel system, gasoline: Delivery: Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings (Recall no. 20V321000)

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire. A fuel line quick connector located in the engine compartment may leak.

2018-2020 Bentayga vehicles

Seat belts: Rear/other (Recall no. 20V154000)

If the seat belt is not properly secured in the event of a crash, the occupant will not be properly restrained, increasing their risk of injury. The third-row upper seat belt attachment may not stay connected to the vehicle in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages.”

2018-2020 Bentayga vehicles

Air bags: Side/window (Recall no. 20V092000)

An air bag that does not properly inflate in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury. In the event of a crash, the side curtain air bags may not properly inflate.

2018 Bentayga vehicles

Back over prevention: sensing system: camera (Recall no. 18V632000)

If the full camera view is obstructed or delayed and the driver does not check their surroundings before backing up, there may be an increased risk of a crash. When reverse gear has been selected, the rearview camera display may be obstructed or may not be fully visible within two seconds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, “Rearview Mirrors.”

2017 Bentayga vehicles manufactured March 1, 2016, to September 30, 2016

Seats (Recall no. 16V816000)

If the seat mechanism and instrument panel joints are not tightened, they can loosen, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash. During the assembly process, the affected vehicles may not have had the seat mechanism and instrument panel joints properly tightened.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

The Bentley Bentayga is a reliable SUV that you can rely on and has relatively low maintenance requirements.

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here are the suggested service schedules and intervals per Bentley:

1st YEAR / 10,000 MILES

Oil and filter changeTire check and rotationMultipoint inspectionBrake system checkBentley Bentayga service reset

2nd YEAR / 20,000 MILES

Services of the 10,000-mile checkBattery checkEngine and exhaust inspectionDust and pollen filter replacementSpark plug replacementComponent lubricationRoad test

3rd YEAR / 30,000 MILES

Services of 10,000 and 20,000-mile checkAir cleaner check and replacementBelt and tensioner check and replacementPlenum panel check and cleanPower steering fluid check and fillTransmission and axle check and adjustmentRoad test

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Bentley Bentayga:

Oil Change – As low as $500 for independent mechanics and $800 for dealers.Minor Service – Typically includes oil change, cabin filters, and engine filters. The cost from a dealer is around $1,000.Major Service – Typically includes all the above plus spark plugs, brake flush, and trans flush, expect about $2,500 from a dealer.Tires – A set of high-performance tires like Pirelli P Zero PZ4 will cost about $2,000.Brakes – A full brake job for the Bentaya can range from $2,000 to $4,000.

Options List

The Bentley Bentayga has a huge list of options and packages that customers can choose from. 

One of the most popular and desirable options for the Bentayga would be the Mulliner package. Mulliner is a factory-in-house customization program that allows customers to personalize their Bentayga with unique exterior and interior colors, materials, and features that were not available on regular production models. This option came on the earlier models and also the most recent cars. 

The Styling package also added aesthetic improvement to the Bentayga. It was designed to improve aerodynamic performance and impact positively on how the SUV feels on the road. The changes include a rear tailgate spoiler, front air blades, splitters for the front bumper grilles, and side sill extensions.

On new facelifted Bentayga’s, there’s a palette of seven standard paint colors, expanding to 16 for the Bentayga Azure, with an extensive selection of about 60 shades in the extended range, including duo-tone and Mulliner Paint options. 

The Blackline Specification replaces chrome accents with black, while the Styling Specification introduces a carbon fiber body kit. Interior finishes range from classic high-gloss to modern open-pore wood veneers and non-wood alternatives like carbon fiber and Dark Tint Diamond Brushed Aluminium, alongside Mulliner’s exclusive Piano Linen finish for fascia and waistrails.

It is also worth noting that Bentley offered Bentayga offered customers the option to have a dash-mounted Mulliner Tourbillon mechanical clock by Breitling. This was an extremely rare option that not many people ordered. 

Key Options

Upgraded 21-22 inch wheelsMulliner packageStyling packageMulliner Paint

2016 Bentley Bentayga options list

2021 Bentley Bentayga options list

The Best Bentley Bentayga To Buy

When it comes to buying a Bentayga, there are a few key factors to consider that can affect the car’s long-term value.

Some of the criteria are broken down into a few categories.

While the options and variants for Bentayga’s are extremely vast, the variants that will most likely hold their value will be the Speed or Mulliner versions, whether it’s the first gen or facelift, they will be most sought after. 

The other models of Bentagya’s are also great vehicles and you cannot go wrong with any of them, however, in terms of market stability, your best bet would be a 2017 to 2021 Bentley Bentayga that comes with a W12 or V8. 

The facelift Bentayga’s will be more expensive but they will have more room for you to own without losing money. 

The Bentayga will remain a strong purchase simply because of its reputation for being an extremely well-built and reliable vehicle. These cars have a proven track record for being mechanically sound with few major issues.

As hybrid technology becomes more widespread among cars, naturally aspirated W12 and V8s are becoming highly sought after by enthusiasts who are looking for an ultra-luxury SUV in the current market.

Keep in mind, the condition and mileage of the car are also important factors to consider when buying a Bentayga. There are many that have been driven hard and have been neglected. But the ones that are more likely to retain their value in the long run and will fetch the most money will be a well-maintained car with low mileage.

Therefore, it’s important to do your research, compare prices, and look for well-maintained cars if you are considering purchasing a Bentayga with the goal of not losing any money.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for around ($150,000+) the Bentley Bentayga is a great choice for the first ultra-luxury SUV that you can rely on.

In a world filled with SUVs, it can be difficult to stand out. But the Bentayga manages to make a statement no matter where it goes. Power and build quality are deeply impressive, and customization is nearly unlimited.

While its competitors include the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, Land Rover Range Rover, Lamborghini Urus, Ferrari Purosangue, and Rolls Royce Cullinan, the Bentley stands out as a symbol of unmatched luxury and refinement. Its ability to blend performance, elegance, and unparalleled customization sets it apart from its prestigious counterparts, defining it as a pinnacle in the luxury SUV category.

You won’t go wrong with a Bentagya.