The Bentley Bentayga Speed Goodwood record has just raised the bar for performance SUVs. This luxury powerhouse claimed its place in history by completing the Goodwood hillclimb in 55.8 seconds, despite wet conditions that would’ve made most drivers back off. But not Bentley, and certainly not the new Speed.
It’s not just the fastest production ICE SUV ever to run at Goodwood. It also beat Bentley’s own previous W12 Bentayga Speed record, set in dry weather. This wasn’t a stunt. It was a statement: the new Bentayga Speed is Bentley’s most dynamic SUV to date.
Bentayga Speed’s Power Redefined Performance
At the core of this performance beast lies an uprated 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. It generates a mighty 650 PS and 850 Nm of torque. From a standstill, it surges to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Keep your foot in, and you’ll hit a top speed of 193 mph.
During the record-setting run, the Bentayga Speed reached a peak of 130 mph before braking hard for Molecomb corner. That’s not something you see every day from an SUV weighing over two tonnes. Clearly, the new SPORT mode and ESC Dynamic system played their part in keeping things razor sharp.
Next-Level Chassis and Dynamic Agility
The updated chassis system features all-wheel steering, sharper suspension response, and adjustable ESC. SPORT mode adds 15% more damping stiffness, boosting cornering grip and steering feedback.
Carbon ceramic brakes, optional, but highly recommended, allow the use of ESC Dynamic, giving skilled drivers access to launch control, power-on oversteer, and drift-friendly angles. Torque vectoring and active control systems combine to deliver a connection between driver and machine that’s rare in the SUV world.
Styled for Speed, Built for Precision
Design details complement its aggressive performance. 22-inch Speed wheels are standard, while new 23-inch options appear for the first time when carbon ceramic brakes are fitted. Dark tint brightware, unique Speed badging, and signature lighting give the Bentayga Speed a confident presence on and off the track.
Seven painted brake caliper options add a pop of personality. And for those chasing an even more visceral experience, the optional Akrapovič titanium exhaust delivers an enhanced soundtrack through quad tailpipes.
Engine Note Matches the Power
Standard on the new Bentayga Speed is a sport exhaust system that brings out the best of the V8’s voice. It’s rich, deep, and utterly addictive. Whether you’re idling through city streets or blasting up a hill at Goodwood, it sounds every bit as fast as it drives.
Add the titanium system, and the result is a spine-tingling roar that tells everyone this is no ordinary luxury SUV.
Summary
With its latest evolution, the Bentley Bentayga Speed doesn’t just redefine what a luxury SUV can be, it crushes the benchmark. From breathtaking straight-line acceleration to sophisticated handling and record-setting ability, this flagship SUV proves that luxury and speed can absolutely coexist.
Disclaimer: Performance figures may vary based on options and road conditions. Always drive responsibly and within local laws.
Source: Bentley
