Bentley hinted that he would introduce a new high-performance variation of popular Bentayga SUV next year, and without any form of significant hybrid assistance.

Although this doesn’t really match the brand’s expectations Beyond100+ Strategy which will debut in 2026, the new model will undoubtedly suit customers hungry for a high-performance Bentayga – especially after the recent demise of the W12 model.

The new version will most likely use a highly optimized version of the existing Bentayga’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. As it stands, this proven powertrain is currently rated at a relatively modest 542 hp, even in the sportier S variant.

Historically, this was designed to ensure a bit of performance headroom for the W12, but with that engine now out of commission, the doors have been opened for a more powerful version of the V8.

What is surprising, however, is that Bentley will not use the plug-in hybrid found in the closely related model. Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. Instead, it will run an unassisted version of the V8 tuned to produce extra power, potentially with similar output to the Audi RS Q8’s 592 hp.

This will not only make the new version lighter than the corresponding version. plug-in hybridit will also give the car an even more dynamic character than the W12-powered Speed, which was always affected by the prodigious weight of the 12-cylinder engine.

In this car, Bentley has used a range of chassis technologies to control weight and we expect the same here, with complex hardware like the company’s active anti-roll system, rear-wheel steering and suspension pneumatic.

Being a high-performance flagship, there should also be a series of styling changes to the exterior, as well as a set of big brakes – potentially with carbon-ceramic options – and a new set of 22 wheels. inches, or even potentially 23 inches.

The combination of elements could well make this new model the most dynamic and engaging variant of the Bentayga yet. Likely to cost more than £200,000 when it arrives next year, production will likely be limited due to the 2026 deadline of the Beyond100+ strategy for its purely ICE model ranges.

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