2022 Bentley Bentayga

　　

2022 Bentley Bentayga Review

byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　Since its introduction, the Bentayga has been able to flaunt exclusivity and status in equal measure, making it the preeminent ultra-luxury SUV. Though it shares its underpinnings with the likes of the Lamborghini Urus and the Porsche Cayenne, the Bentayga is very much a Bentley and, as such, can be built to suit even the most extravagant and unique tastes. Powering this bespoke behemoth is your choice of either a twin-turbocharged V8 or an exotic twin-turbocharged V12 engine. A plug-in hybrid powertrain was offered last year, but Bentley has put this option on hiatus until 2023.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Bentley Bentayga V8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$248/mo  for Bentayga V8

　　Bentayga V8

　　V8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 8A) (Most Popular) - $193,400 MSRPS 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 8A) - $226,600 MSRPSpeed 4dr SUV AWD (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 8A) - $259,400 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　For 2022, the Bentayga gains a trim level to bridge the gap between the entry-level V8 and the nearly over-the-top Speed trim level. Known as the S, it comes standard with a more sporty appearance as well as a sport-tuned adaptive suspension and a more aggressive exhaust system.

　　The success of the Bentayga has caught the attention of rival luxury brands. Mercedes-Benz now offers a more refined and luxurious version of its GLS, known as the Maybach GLS, while Lamborghini and Porsche put performance first with their luxury SUVs. Keeping it on the island, Range Rover continues to offer an aristocratic take on the SUV, while the Rolls-Royce Cullinan takes opulence to a new level. To see if the Bentayga is worthy of a spot in your garage, check out the zzdcar' Expert Rating below.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Great

　　8.2

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.5/10

　　How does the Bentayga drive? Part SUV and part Saturn V rocket, the Bentayga makes as much of a statement as its styling. In our testing of a V8 model, the Bentayga blasted from 0 to 60 mph in a scant 3.8 seconds. The burly V8 soundtrack is cool too. Acceleration is effortless, befitting a true luxury vehicle. Braking and handling capability are nearly up to the same level but lack the feel they should have at this price. There's also some grabbiness to the pedal, which can make it difficult to stop smoothly around town.

　　Multimode terrain settings and an air suspension enable commendable off-road performance. With no limited-slip differentials, it's the braking system and the air suspension that get the Bentayga where it needs to go. The on-road tires are also a limiting factor.

　　

Comfort

8.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Bentayga? The Bentayga checks all the boxes in this category. This SUV no doubt sets the standard for the class, from its supremely comfortable front seats to near vault-like silence at high speeds. The seats are supportive, supple and exceedingly comfortable even over long distances.

　　No matter the Bentayga's speed, very little road or wind noise is allowed to enter the cabin. But the 22-inch wheel and tire package did somewhat compromise the ride on less-than-perfect surfaces. The somewhat plain-looking and somewhat flat rear bench seat is also a blemish, although it can be optioned with heating and ventilation for the outboard seats or replaced with more luxurious captain's chairs.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below