Prepare yourself for an extraordinary experience, because Bentley has truly raised the bar at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This year, the marque boasts its most significant presence ever, showcasing an impressive new two-storey home and a remarkable fleet of over 30 Bentleys supporting the event. At the heart of this grand display is the UK debut of the new Bentley Bentayga Speed, ready to redefine luxury SUV performance.
A New Home for Bentley’s Grandeur
Bentley has returned to the Goodwood Festival of Speed with a presence unlike any before. A brand-new, purpose-built show stand is now the largest in Bentley’s Goodwood history. It boasts a 500-square-meter footprint and two storeys, constructed using over 200 tonnes of steel. This impressive structure offers a new level of hospitality for guests and showcases the best of Bentley to all 200,000 visitors.
Dynamic Debuts and a Convoy of Luxury
The new Bentayga Speed makes its highly anticipated UK debut at this event. Alongside it, Mulliner’s latest coachbuilt car, the Batur Convertible, also makes its dynamic public appearance. These stunning vehicles join a fleet of over 30 Bentleys, all converging in Sussex to support the Festival. Five cars are even taking part in the thrilling Supercar and First Glance batches on the famous hillclimb.
Power and Performance: The Bentayga Speed
The new Bentley Bentayga Speed features a phenomenal twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine. This powerhouse is now tuned to deliver a full 850 Nm of torque and an impressive 650 PS (641 bhp). It is the most powerful Bentayga that Bentley has ever built. From a standstill, it can propel you to 60 mph in a breathtaking 3.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds). This is an incredible figure for such a luxurious and spacious vehicle. Its top speed is a thrilling 193 mph (310 km/h), especially with the optional carbon ceramic brakes fitted. A sports exhaust comes standard, delivering a rich, powerful engine note. For an even more thrilling soundtrack, the optional titanium Akrapovic Sports Exhaust system elevates the V8’s roar.
Engineered for Exhilaration
The Bentayga Speed is specifically tuned for elite performance requirements. Its twin-turbocharged V8 delivers an effortless wave of acceleration. You can also experience a new ESC Dynamic Mode when carbon ceramic brakes are installed. This mode unleashes the car’s phenomenal chassis, allowing for controlled rear-end drifts on a track. It also provides access to Launch Control, helping you experience raw acceleration. Bentley Dynamic Ride, an innovative electronic anti-roll system, maintains stability through corners. All-wheel steering further enhances maneuverability at low speeds and stability during high-speed lane changes.
Showcase of Excellence on the Stand
Right at the front of the new stand, three of Bentley’s latest models are on display for everyone to view. The vibrant Continental GT Speed in Orange Flame beautifully showcases the new carbon Styling Specification, available to order later in July. This also highlights the newly-announced Akrapovic Titanium sports exhaust. The subtle Black Crystal Flying Spur stands out as a Black Edition, featuring bright Mandarin brake calipers behind striking black 22-inch ten-spoke wheels.
Artisan Craftsmanship on Display
The contemporary Storm Grey Satin Black Edition Bentayga S is also featured. This model not only demonstrates the incredible skills of Crewe’s paintshop technicians, who hand-produced the satin paint effect in 55 hours, but also highlights the Klien Blue optional detailing available with the Black edition. Live demonstrations on the stand explain the hand sewing of steering wheels and intricate wood veneering techniques. Visitors can also explore and purchase items from the Bentley Collection at the stand Boutique.
Thrilling Hillclimb Action
On the famous Goodwood hill climb, several modern Bentleys are expertly navigating the 1.2-mile course. From the Supercar paddock, the Scarab Green Bacalar, the first of Mulliner’s modern coachbuilt cars, leads the way. It is followed by the most recent, the Batur Convertible, making its UK public debut. Following closely up the hill is the newest Continental GT Speed.
Speed Models in Action
In the ‘First Glance’ batch, a duo of Speed models, including the new Bentayga, demonstrate their impressive capabilities. All these powerful cars are driven by colleagues from Bentley’s own chassis and powertrain development team. This truly shows the confidence Bentley has in its own products, performing dynamically on a challenging course.
Unique Appearances and Surprising Guests
Demonstrating Bentley’s harmony of polarities, a Black Edition Bentayga serves as a course car. This very Bentayga notably chauffeured Black Sabbath to their final show just six days prior. This impressive SUV is also accompanied by a Flying Spur Speed. For the first time ever, and for a limited number of runs, a Bentley Speed Six Continuation Series also makes a unique appearance, adding to the historic atmosphere.
Bentley’s presence at Goodwood Festival of Speed this year is truly monumental. From the stunning new Bentayga Speed making its UK debut to the array of meticulously crafted vehicles and engaging displays, Bentley continues to showcase its commitment to luxury, performance, and unparalleled automotive artistry. It’s an event not to be missed for any automotive enthusiast.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and availability may vary. Consult official Bentley sources for the most current information.
Source: Bentley
