The Bentayga SUV has been an unqualified success for Bentley, accounting for 40% of all of the automaker's sales globally. We love it too — after a significant refresh in 2021, the Bentayga rose to the No. 2 slot in our list of the best Super Luxury SUVs thanks to its exceptional comfort, blistering performance, and impeccable interior materials and design. The Bentayga doesn't really have many faults, though we will admit it doesn't have the enormously spacious interior that you'll find in the Flying Spur or the old Mulsanne.
2023 Bentley Bentayga
MSRP Range: $197,300 - $264,600 Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.
2023 Bentley Bentayga





+115
great
8.2/10
edmunds TESTED
In a world rife with SUVs, it can be difficult to stand out. But the Bentayga manages to make a statement no matter where it goes. Power and build quality are deeply impressive, and customization is nearly unlimited. A new-for-2021 10.9-inch infotainment system has done wonders for the interior, greatly improving the already excellent Bentayga experience.
Pricing
Total MSRPThis price includes a $2,725 destination fee charged by the manufacturer. | $200,025 |
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Edmunds suggests you pay | $200,025 |
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2023 Bentley Bentayga Review


byDan Frio
Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
, rating written byKurt Niebuhr
Senior Vehicle Test Editor
Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of Edmunds' 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 When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
Pros
- Incredible luxury and craftsmanship
- Powerful engine and quick acceleration
- Legitimate off-road capability
- Optional seating for up to seven
Cons
- Optional equipment is very expensive
- Standard rear bench seat is a bit flat and plain
What's new
- New extended-wheelbase version offers more rear seat room
- New Azure series focuses specifically on comfort and well-being
- Ultra-exclusive Odyssean Edition and Speed Edition 12 models debut
- One of the last chances to get the W12 engine before it ceases production in April 2024
- Part of the first Bentayga generation introduced for 2017
Overview
Ten years ago, the idea of a Bentley SUV seemed absurd, almost sacrilegious. Credit the Bentley brain trust for rightly gauging the global appetite for SUVs, as the Bentayga has in just five years of production become the brand's best-seller. It's not hard to see why. The Bentayga packages the exceptional comfort, blistering performance and impeccable quality expected of a Bentley luxury sedan into a seven-passenger SUV that has few rivals.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 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 $4.32 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$315/mo for Bentayga V8
Bentayga V8
vs
$258/mo
Avg. Large SUV
For 2023, an extended-wheelbase version (dubbed EWB) joins the portfolio, adding 7 inches to the Bentayga's rear seat area. It's reviewed separately on Edmunds, but you should know that increased legroom is just the beginning. The EWB also offers diamond-quilted leather, massaging and climate-controlled seats, dual air ionizers, and even a repositioned panoramic sunroof designed for maximum sunlight. Optional is the new Airline Seat Specification package that adds footrests and 40-degree reclining rear seats that automatically adjust for optimal temperature and position. Bentley says constant and imperceptible changes in pressure points reduce passenger fatigue.
The optional Diamond Illumination package is a further masterstroke of Bentley detail, employing LEDs below perforated leather door panels for a dramatic nighttime effect. The EWB also comes with rear-wheel steering, which Bentley says makes the long SUV nimbler around turns than the standard Bentayga. Finally, a new Azure trim prioritizes comfort through increased sound insulation and standard driver assistance features, while two new special-edition models make this exclusive SUV even more so.
The new extended-length Bentayga makes Bentley's top seller even more appealing. While the Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS, Land Rover Range Rover, and other ultra-luxury SUVs offer similar comfort and performance, none but the more stratospherically priced Rolls-Royce Cullinan mind the handcrafted details quite like Bentley.
Edmunds Expert Rating
great
8.2/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds 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.
In a world rife with SUVs, it can be difficult to stand out. But the Bentayga manages to make a statement no matter where it goes. Power and build quality are deeply impressive, and customization is nearly unlimited. A new-for-2021 10.9-inch infotainment system has done wonders for the interior, greatly improving the already excellent Bentayga experience.
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.
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.
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 Edmunds Expert Rating below
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2023 Bentley Bentayga pricing
in Ashburn, VAEdmunds suggests you pay
- V8Most PopularSuggested price: $200,025What should I pay for V8 trim
- HybridSuggested price: $200,025What should I pay for Hybrid trim
- S HybridSuggested price: $228,225What should I pay for S Hybrid trim
- S V8Suggested price: $233,825What should I pay for S V8 trim
- Azure HybridSuggested price: $234,025What should I pay for Azure Hybrid trim
- Azure V8Suggested price: $239,625What should I pay for Azure V8 trim
- Odyssean EditionSuggested price: $242,025What should I pay for Odyssean Edition trim
- SpeedSuggested price: $267,325What should I pay for Speed trim
Interior
8.5/10
How’s the interior? The Bentayga benefits from being not too high off the ground — it's easy to get in and out of, and forward visibility is excellent. The view over the broad hood gives you a commanding view of the road and your position on it.
Drivers can get comfortable immediately, and the multitude of seat adjustments allow for detailed fine-tuning for the perfect position. The infotainment system and center console layout have done wonders for the Bentayga's interior. It's now fully modern but has a hint of traditional luxury. Rear passengers have plenty of legroom and headroom.
Drivers can get comfortable immediately, and the multitude of seat adjustments allow for detailed fine-tuning for the perfect position. The infotainment system and center console layout have done wonders for the Bentayga's interior. It's now fully modern but has a hint of traditional luxury. Rear passengers have plenty of legroom and headroom.
Technology
8.5/10
How’s the tech? Previously, the Bentayga had a Volkswagen corporate hand-me-down infotainment system that betrayed the luxury and craftsmanship of the rest of the interior. But the new-for-2021 10.9-inch unit looks crisp and modern and is relatively easy to navigate. The handwriting recognition feature works great, and the voice control system responds well to fairly natural language. High marks also go to the optional Naim audio system. Should you already have the money for a Bentayga, the nearly $9,000 audio upgrade shouldn't be much of a stretch.
Apple CarPlay is available via a wireless connection, and Android Auto is also standard. USB ports exist for front and backseat passengers, and the wireless charging pad offers plenty of room for larger phones. Most of the Bentayga's driver aids are well calibrated with the exception of the hands-free lane keeping assistance. It's a bit clumsy in its operation and can bounce the Bentayga around between lane markers.
Apple CarPlay is available via a wireless connection, and Android Auto is also standard. USB ports exist for front and backseat passengers, and the wireless charging pad offers plenty of room for larger phones. Most of the Bentayga's driver aids are well calibrated with the exception of the hands-free lane keeping assistance. It's a bit clumsy in its operation and can bounce the Bentayga around between lane markers.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? There's adequate cargo space for an SUV of this size. The folding split rear seats allow easy storage for a bicycle should you be inclined. Curiously, Bentley didn't trim the cargo area with any real luxury touches; open the rear liftgate and you're not going to see anything special. Interior storage isn't overly abundant either, but it is practical and keeps items secure.
For small-child duty, the Bentley's wide doors and relatively low ride height mean it's easy to get safety seats and children in and out. A tow rating of 7,716 pounds might sound impressive, but this number has not been confirmed with recognized U.S. testing procedures that demand a tongue weight of at least 10%. As such, we cannot fully trust this number.
For small-child duty, the Bentley's wide doors and relatively low ride height mean it's easy to get safety seats and children in and out. A tow rating of 7,716 pounds might sound impressive, but this number has not been confirmed with recognized U.S. testing procedures that demand a tongue weight of at least 10%. As such, we cannot fully trust this number.
Fuel Economy
7.0/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates that the Bentayga V8 will get 17 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Yet in our testing we found that typical driving can net you a mere 10 mpg. Don't trust the trip computer's mpg calculations either; it's wildly optimistic.
Value
7.5/10
Is the Bentayga a good value? Customization is the name of the game, and Bentley does it as well as anyone. The quality of the seats, stitching, leather and paint is exceptional, and the Bentayga stands head and shoulders above its rivals here. Knurled finishes on many surfaces lend a watch-like quality to many small parts.
Service and customer care are beyond what most car buyers will ever know, but you will pay for that privilege. Every part of the Bentayga is covered under a three-year/unlimited mileage warranty; that goes for the traditional bumper-to-bumper warranty and powertrain components as well.
Service and customer care are beyond what most car buyers will ever know, but you will pay for that privilege. Every part of the Bentayga is covered under a three-year/unlimited mileage warranty; that goes for the traditional bumper-to-bumper warranty and powertrain components as well.
Wildcard
8.5/10
Exclusivity, status, and the ability to flaunt both of them at any time are what the Bentayga is all about. Even in an era where the SUV is ubiquitous, the Bentayga stands out. There are better-equipped luxury vehicles, and even less expensive ones, but almost nothing competes with the Bentayga.
Despite your best efforts at restraint, you'll wind up flexing all that power and having moments of warp speed just because you can. You can even chuck the Bentayga around with some abandon. Physics will eventually catch up with you, but not many other motorists will.
Despite your best efforts at restraint, you'll wind up flexing all that power and having moments of warp speed just because you can. You can even chuck the Bentayga around with some abandon. Physics will eventually catch up with you, but not many other motorists will.
Which Bentayga does Edmunds recommend?
We like the S trim since it comes standard with several options, such as Dynamic Ride (body roll control), a sport exhaust and the Blackline exterior trim. To that, we'd add the Naim audio package and the four-seat configuration to replace the Bentayga's standard ho-hum rear bench seat. As a bonus, and if you're on a bit of a restricted budget, the S starts $30K less than the V12-powered Speed.
Bentley Bentayga models
The standard-wheelbase 2023 Bentley Bentayga is available in four primary trim levels: base Bentayga, Azure, S and Speed. The base and Azure are also available with an extended wheelbase (EWB), and that model is reviewed separately.
Base, Azure and S trims come standard with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 paired to a plug-in hybrid system. The hybrid component is composed of a 100-kW electric motor and an 18-kWh battery pack. Total system output is 456 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.
Optional for these trims is a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine (542 horsepower, 568 lb-ft). The Speed is exclusively fitted with a turbocharged 6.0-liter 12-cylinder (626 hp and 664 lb-ft). All engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
By default, the Bentayga comes in a five-seat configuration and starts with standard features that can be lavishly built upon. They include:
- 21-inch wheels with summer performance tires
- Adaptive air suspension with variable ride height
- Adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
- Panoramic sunroof
- Full leather interior with synthetic suede headliner
- Soft-close doors (catch as they're being closed and gently pull shut)
- Four-zone automatic climate control
- 10.9-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Navigation
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- 12-speaker audio system
- Parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
- Blind-spot warning (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Multiple stand-alone options allow for more precise configurations, including:
- Dynamic Ride suspension (uses electric motors in the suspension to minimize body roll) (V8 only)
- Sport exhaust (V8 only)
- Carbon-ceramic brakes (provides better resistance to brake fade during high-performance driving) (V8 only)
- Ambient cabin lighting
- Leather headliner
- Rear entertainment system (dual 10.1-inch displays)
- 20-speaker Naim audio system
- Lambswool floor mats
- 22-inch wheels
- All-season tires
Other options, which Bentley calls Specifications, are bundled into packages. Highlights include:
- Touring Specification
- Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
- Automatic emergency braking (warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time)
- Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield)
- Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
- Night vision
- Front Seat Comfort Specification
- Ventilated and massaging front seats with additional adjustments
- Five-Seat Comfort Specification
- Front Seat Comfort Specification
- Ventilated rear seats
- Four-Seat Comfort Specification
- Front Seat Comfort Specification
- Rear seats with individual adjustment, ventilation and massage
- Full center console
- Two additional USB-C ports
- Seven-Seat Comfort Specification (V8 only)
- Third row with two additional seats, for a total of seven
- Blackline Specification
- Black-painted exterior trim (grille, window trim, headlight surrounds, roof rails, side vents)
- All-Terrain Specification
- Four off-road settings
- Underbody skid plates and front-facing camera
- Drive mode controller
- Luggage management system
- Airline Seat Specification
Available for the Extended Wheelbase model, it adds:
- 22-way power adjustments
- 40-degree recline angle
- Auto temperature control (monitors and adjusts to body temperature)
- Heated rear seat armrests
The Azure trim adds 22-inch wheels, diamond-quilted leather door inserts, and the features of the Touring Specification and Front Seat Comfort Specification. Nominally considered the sporty Bentayga, the S presents a darker look with standard Blackline Specification and black exterior trim, a sport exhaust (V8 only), faux suede accents and Dynamic Ride Control. Finally, the Speed adds the 12-cylinder engine, 22-inch wheels, selectable drive modes, Dynamic Ride, All-Terrain Specification and diamond-quilted leather upholstery.
New for 2023 are two ultra-exclusive trim levels. The first is the Odyssean Edition, limited to just 70 units worldwide. Billed as "the most sustainable Bentayga," the Odyssean Edition starts with the plug-in hybrid V6 and offers unique tweed accents, treadplates, badges and tricolor upholstery. Other included items — like open-pore Koa veneers and the Front Seat Comfort Specification and Touring Specification packages — are standard here but available on other models.
The second is the Speed Edition 12, celebrating Bentley's iconic W12 engine before production ends in April 2024. It's slightly more accessible, with 120 units produced worldwide, and, naturally, builds off the Speed model. Special badging and doorsill plates, a numbered engine plaque, silver brake calipers and "12" embroidery on the seats are all unique features of this version. It's also the only Bentayga to offer the Opalite exterior color, a gray-green with copper undertones, and even comes with a 15% scale replica of the W12 engine block.

The End of an Era: Bentley Will Stop Producing W12 Engines in 2024

2023 Bentley Bentayga Gains a Hybrid Model (Again)

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga EWB Gets Longer and More Luxurious

2023 Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase Finally Lets Backseat Passengers Stretch Out
Bentley Bentayga Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(50%)
4(0%)
3(12%)
2(0%)
1(38%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Software problems with new electronics
3 out of 5 starsLarry Keller, 08/28/2018
2018 Bentley Bentayga Black Edition 4dr SUV AWD (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 8A)
This is our fourth Bentley that we have owned. We purchased a 2018 Bentagya in November 2018. Currently we have 7200 miles on it and this is what we have encountered.
This generation of Bentley has a new set of electronics compared to the last three we owned. We do not like this new set of electronics, the car is very unpredictable and not user friendly. We do not feel this is a SUV that … you can relax and drive. You need to be attentive to certain situations that can occur.
For example every time you turn on the air conditioner and / or heater, you must set your settings each time, (windshield, dash vents, or floor). You need to press more buttons to get the system to work. I have figured out that you need to set up the air system before you start driving due to the time to set up and not looking at the road.
The driver door does not close automatically and will cause the parking brake to come on, whenever you stop. See more in other paragraph.
Bentley has also designed a shut off mode for the motor, that is on unless you turn it off each time you start the car. If you forget to shut off that button or change modes, watch out. You will go to push the gas at a stoplight and nothing will happen, then about the count of 3, BAMMMMM!!! Your car shoots off thru the light. We have almost rear ended several cars because of this. You go to push the gas and nothing happens, you wonder what happened, and then it starts and rockets off.
The front end collision braking system has activated several times on me, and once on my wife, when there was nothing close to the front of the car. When this occurs it almost throws you thru the windshield and makes you nervous each time you see the red light in the dash light up.
The biggest problem we have had is the driver door will not shut automatically with the motor all the time. Sometimes it shuts and sometimes it does not. If you restart the car, it will work (electronics). We took it to the dealer; they tried to update the system with a software update. It did not work. Our door still does not close and now they want to order the part to fix it. I think it is more of an electrical problem than part, but we will see.
The day before we had the car in for service, I had a low tire light come on, so I asked them to fix it. I was told when I picked up the car that they could not fix the tire because the tread was too low and it was against their policy to fix tires in that tread range. Keep in mind that the car only had 6900 miles on it at that time. So my question is, are the tires on the Bentagya only good for 10,000- 12,000 miles? I guess so. Expect to replace your tires after the first year of driving, due to the cheap tires they are putting on them.
This Bentagya is not the SUV that we were hoping for when we purchased it. With what we have encountered so far, I would suggest a Range Rover and save yourself $130,000.
BUYERS BEWARE [non-permissible content removed]
1 out of 5 starsBarrington , 11/21/2022
2018 Bentley Bentayga Mulliner 4dr SUV AWD (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 8A)
I bought what I thought was my dream vehicle brand ne over 300k mulliner edition. Perfect truck so i thought. I rarely drive it I service it regularly it's my baby. I even hand wash it only. Had extended warranty so I said I dont drive it enough to justify 7I for warranty. Smh why did i not renew warranty. Truck has 30k miles just had to replace the transmission 27k just for the … transmission and 60 hours of labor at Bentley. You do the math and truck depreciation is horrifying. So truck isn't worth 150k now and i just had to spend 40k on transmission so listen to me it was 4 bentaygas at shop for same thing so Bentley knows and are not caring ZF transmissions have a history of this. In all luxury vehicles so please save your self before you regret it
UNSAFE TO DRIVE
1 out of 5 starsGersalv, 08/07/2019
2018 Bentley Bentayga W12 (Signature) 4dr SUV AWD (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 8A)
I own a 2018 Bentley Bentayga. It is everything they say about handling, car colors, speed, etc. Hoever what is NOT said is the car' s safety. After only 8800 miles, I took my car in for the first service, which I thought would be routine oil change, filter, etc. I was horrified to learn that my brakes were dangerously low! I had to not only replace pads but rotors as well which had … already been damaged. The service manager at the dealer told me this is a common problem with this car. I am an elderly woman who drives to Dr's apts, church, shopping, etc. I called Bentley numerous times for an explanation. Customer Service told me the Regional Manager would call. After not less than 5 calls, he has yet to return my call.
You take your life and the life of your loved ones in your hands driving this car.
300K [non-permissible content removed]
1 out of 5 starsAlexander , 09/14/2022
2018 Bentley Bentayga Mulliner 4dr SUV AWD (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 8A)
I bought truck brand new mulliner package 311k car isn't worth half that now. And just had to replace transmission and of course it's out of warranty I have 30k miles on this piece of crap. Happend out the blue no warning and I rarely drive it except special occasions. SO FIND A DIFFRENT CHOICE THEY SUCK
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2023 Bentley Bentayga, so we've included reviews for other years of the Bentayga since its last redesign.
Helpful shopping links
2023 Bentley Bentayga Features Specs
SUV
V8
Total MSRP | $200,025 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $315/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 17.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / unlimited miles |

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Safety
Our experts’ favorite Bentayga safety features:
- Reverse Traffic Warning
- Warns you if a vehicle is approaching while you're backing into traffic.
- Lane Assist
- Warns you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its marked lane and corrects the steering if you don't react.
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Warns you if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if you don't respond in time.
2023 Bentley Bentayga First Impressions
So what's new here?
As was mentioned, the Bentayga EWB rides on a wheelbase lengthened by 7 inches. But it's not simply a cut-and-shut job. Boasting 2,500 new parts for the EWB, Bentley has essentially reengineered the Bentayga from the front seats back. Changes to the underbody and chassis even mandated considerable retooling and modification of the Bentayga's assembly line.
Outside, there's a new grille featuring vertical vanes for added presence, a new wheel design, and subtle styling changes that do very well to camouflage the Bentayga's newfound length. In fact, from many angles it can be difficult to differentiate the EWB from the standard Bentayga. Another subtle change involved repositioning the Bentayga's panoramic sunroof farther rearward to keep the sun shining brightly on the EWB's rear passengers.
Inside, the leather seats get a new quilting design, new metal inlays have been created for the wood trim, and the rear console has been redesigned. The EWB introduces illuminated leather trim, which employs 68 LEDs below the perforated surface of the door inserts. There's also a new trim level — or specification, as Bentley calls it — known as Azure. If Bentley's Speed specification adds more, well, speed, then the Azure adds increased levels of comfort, mainly through the use of even more sound insulation. Oh, and there are now power-closing rear doors — just press a button and watch your neighbor with the new Range Rover weep.
The best seat in the house
Our biggest tripping point with the Bentayga has long been its rather ordinary rear seat. It wasn't particularly spacious, and in the standard three-person bench configuration, it didn't look particularly special either. We always felt the Bentayga is best experienced as a four-seater, and we're pleased to see the EWB take that to a whole new level.
There is, inexplicably, still a bench seat as standard equipment, but the EWB can also be had in a four-plus-one configuration (essentially a four-seater with a makeshift fifth possible if you lift up the center armrest) and as a true four-seater. If you opt for the four seats — as well you should — then you must spring for the Airline Seat specification. It brings 22 ways of adjustment as well as humidity-sensing seats that will automatically activate heating or cooling as needed to optimize your comfort. We spent over an hour in the right rear passenger seat (that one gets to move the front passenger seat well and truly out of the way), and we can say in no uncertain terms that the temperature and humidity functions work flawlessly.
The rear seats also get a full complement of massage programs, including ones designed to help correct your posture over longer journeys. Again, what sounds like a bit of gimmick is anything but. These are the most advanced rear seats in the automotive kingdom. Those massage functions, as well as the climate control (now with rear ionizers), audio controls and various other settings, are controlled through a rather weighty and slick-looking detachable tablet. It's about the size of a smartphone and works as well as it feels in your hands.
To fully appreciate the rest of the rear seat experience, you almost have to be there. With the EWB's longer doors and equally longer windows, visibility is exceptional. Add in the repositioned panoramic sunroof, and throw in picturesque scenery to boot, and riding in the back of the EWB feels more like traveling in a luxurious rail car. There's the faint rumble from the V8, almost no wind noise, and the ever present and unmistakable smell of Bentley leather. It's about as serene as you can get.
It still drives like a Bentayga
Thankfully, the experience we enjoyed so much in the standard Bentayga — driving it around like we owned every road — has not changed. The first versions of the EWB will be powered by the robust 542-horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. Bentley claims that even with the extra weight of the EWB modifications, the Bentayga only loses about 0.1 second to 60 mph. We stuffed the throttle into the Bentayga EWB's sumptuous carpeting, over and over again, and have no reason to doubt that claim. All-wheel drive is standard, as is an eight-speed automatic transmission.
What has changed is the addition of standard rear-wheel steering. This gives the EWB a tighter turning circle than a short-wheelbase Bentayga and makes it about as easy to maneuver as a considerably smaller SUV. As a bonus, the Bentayga EWB feels much more nimble on a back road without losing any stability at higher speeds.
The Bentayga EWB's growth spurt has given the super luxury SUV a new purpose, thanks to a huge boost in rear legroom and added comfort. Combine that extra legroom with arguably the most comfortable rear seats on the market and you've got a new Bentley that carries on the finest traditions of some of the marque's most storied models.
FAQ
Is the Bentley Bentayga a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 Bentayga both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.2 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 Bentayga gets an average rating of 3 stars out of 5 (based on 8 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that carrying capacity for the Bentayga ranges from 16.9 to 17.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Bentley Bentayga. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 Bentley Bentayga?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Bentley Bentayga:
- New extended-wheelbase version offers more rear seat room
- New Azure series focuses specifically on comfort and well-being
- Ultra-exclusive Odyssean Edition and Speed Edition 12 models debut
- One of the last chances to get the W12 engine before it ceases production in April 2024
- Part of the first Bentayga generation introduced for 2017
Is the Bentley Bentayga reliable?
To determine whether the Bentley Bentayga is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Bentayga. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Bentayga's 3-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Bentley Bentayga a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Bentley Bentayga is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 Bentayga and gave it a 8.2 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 Bentayga gets an average rating of 3 stars out of 5 (based on 8 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 Bentayga is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Bentley Bentayga?
The least-expensive 2023 Bentley Bentayga is the 2023 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $197,300.
Other versions include:
- Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $197,300
- V8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $197,300
- S Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $225,500
- S V8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $231,100
- Azure Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $231,300
- Azure V8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $236,900
- Odyssean Edition 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $239,300
- Speed 4dr SUV AWD (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $264,600
What are the different models of Bentley Bentayga?
If you're interested in the Bentley Bentayga, the next question is, which Bentayga model is right for you? Bentayga variants include Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A), V8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 8A), S Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A), and S V8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo 8A). For a full list of Bentayga models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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