New spy shots prematurely reveal a thinly veiled Bently SUV—the Bentayga. With production due to begin in 2016, it’s safe to assume what we see will be very similar to those for the streets. The Bentley Bentayga, as seen in the photo below, has generally remained true to the EXP 9 F concept from 2012, while also having matured in a way any production vehicle should from its conceptual parent.
The Bentagaya sits on one of Volkswagen Group’s new platforms, the MLB Evo, debuted for the 2016 Audi Q7. Engine options confirmed include Bentley’s trusted V-8 engine, as well as a new W-12 6.0litre engine. The possibility for a plug-in hybrid option has also been mentioned, but no confirmation or details of the engine have been revealed. As can be seen in the pictures featured, the Bentagaya’s engine can be differentiated from the exterior based on the use of figure-eight exhaust tips for the V-8 or oval ones for the W-12.
Technological goodies will include: a heads-up display, digital instrument cluster, night vision mode, and a dynamic driving mode selector. As expected, the interior will be eloquently wrapped with Bentley’s fine selection of traditional leather, wood and metal. Earlier reports have made it clear that third row seating is possible, and may even be standard. Hiding beneath mock-up stickers it is evident Bentley has chosen to include their iconic dual circular headlights as part of this design.
As the 2017 Bentley Bentayga is birthed from Bentley’s home in Crewe, England; Volkswagen Group marketers are likely praying for success similar to the ever popular Porsche Cayenne. Meanwhile, we will be looking out for the Bentayga’s anticipated cousin, a Laborghini SUV based on the 2012 Urus concept, likely to be on the same platform. Come next year, high-rollers will have a new option for rolling around while high-up if the 2017 Bentayga is to their liking.
Source: Motor Authority