British luxury marque Bentley has bolstered the 2018 Bentayga SUV range with the addition of a petrol powered V8 variant.
Until now the Bentayga buyers had to make do with either a W12 petrol or a V8 diesel.
The unit in question is a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that can produce 404kW of power and 770Nm of torque. In terms of performance, the 0-100 km/h sprint can be completed in 4.5 seconds on the way to a top speed of 290 km/h. Not bad for a car with a kerb weight of 2395kg.
Taking care of the shifts is an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels utilising a 40:60 front to rear torque split.
Bentley’s V8 features cylinder deactivation technology to improve efficiency and lower emissions. The engine can deactivate four of its eight cylinders in certain conditions. The change happens in just 20 milliseconds which Bentley claim makes the process imperceptible. A Stop-Start system is also used to ensure Euro 6 compliance.
It’s very unlikely Bentley owners will care about consumption, however for those who like details, the claimed fuel consumption on a combined cycle is 11.4L/100km.
Bentley says the new Bentayga petrol V8 will add a characteristic burble from the twin-quad exhaust pipes and when optioned with the carbon-ceramic brakes (available for the first time on the Bentayga), the big SUV will reveal more of its ‘sporting character.’
There are three new interior options offered in the Bentayga V8, for the first time in a Bentley, a high-gloss carbon-fibre finish is available. Bentley has traditionally stuck with the more practical matte carbon-fibre surfaces.
A wood and hide trimmed steering wheel can also be optioned in the Bentayga for the first time.
Cricket Ball leather will make its debut in the Bentayga V8. It’s not just an interesting name, the colour is inspired by the deep chestnut hue of a new cricket ball.
Australian specifications and pricing are yet to be confirmed, we have reached out to Bentley's local representative for comment.
Update: Bentley Australia and New Zealand Marketing and Public Relations Officer Emma Ireland told Car Conversation the Bentayga V8 petrol model is available is from $334,700 plus on-road costs and customer deliveries will take place from June onwards.
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