2017 Bentley Bentayga Review

Do you really need our shopping advice on a Bentayga? In case you can't decide, we'd go for the base model. The Bentayga Mulliner comes standard with basically every extra, but we'd prefer the greater customization possibility that the regular Bentayga offers. Some optional packages are absolute...

Driven with restraint, the Bentayga gathers speed with the effortless grace of a modern skyscraper's express elevator. It's nearly silent as the power builds, and gear changes are seldom felt.

Stomp on the pedal and you'd swear that a pair of solid rocket boosters just ignited, were it not for the raspy growl from the engine and exhaust. This rush would be expected of a much smaller performance car, certainly not an SUV.

The Bentayga's massive iron brake discs impressed us with stopping power that has you checking the mirror for a drag chute. The brake pedal is softer than we prefer, but it's effective nonetheless.

Body roll is minimal thanks to an active suspension system that allows the big SUV to corner flat and composed.

Driven with restraint, the Bentayga gathers speed with the effortless grace of a modern skyscraper's express elevator. It's nearly silent as the power builds, and gear changes are seldom felt.

The Bentayga exceeded our off-road expectations as well, easily tackling diverse terrain, steep inclines and descents and displaying impressive wheel articulation.

The ride quality of the Bentayga — thanks to its air ride suspension — is the focal point here. Compared to the supreme luxury to be found in some of Bentley's other offerings, there are a few niggles with other elements in the car.

Four-seat models ensure comfort for all passengers, with ample lateral support, numerous adjustments, ventilation and massage functions. Seat padding is on the firm side, however. The five-passenger model's rear bench is comparatively flat; it lacks power adjustments but is still comfortable.

The Bentayga's air ride suspension glides over imperfect pavement no matter which drive mode is selected, but you can still feel just enough of the road to remain connected.

On the highway, the cabin is pleasantly devoid of road and wind noise.

We appreciate the easy-to-use, dedicated climate controls, which are placed in easy reach just below the central touchscreen. Some Bentleys offer dual-zone climate control for the rear passengers, so some buyers might be disappointed with the Bentayga's three-zone system.

For a family taxi, you can do better. Other three-row SUVs are better at taking on multiple passengers. But no other SUV can compare to the Bentayga for overall regality.

The recent trend of mounting displays atop the dash makes the Bentayga's screen placement seem out of date since it requires a momentary glance away from the road to operate. A multifunction display between the gauges and an optional head-up display reduce the main screen's distraction potential.

The front seats have plenty of room, but rear legroom is merely adequate. The Bentley's relatively flat roofline means headroom isn't a problem.

Outward visibility is compromised by thick roof pillars, particularly in tight left turns and when backing into a parking space. Thankfully, the standard surround-view camera and automated parallel and perpendicular parking assist eliminate the guesswork when in reverse.

Nearly every surface inside the Bentayga is covered in leather that is worthy of a Prada or Hermès badge. Fitted between the hides are flawless walnut veneers framed by tasteful silver trim, and finely wrought metal knobs and dials. As a result, the buttons that are plastic look comparatively...

Cargo space is less than in some competitors and can't be expanded when equipped with the four-seat layout. That said, with the towing potential taken into account, the Bentayga might be the most utilitarian Bentley.

If there is a weak spot in the Bentayga's execution, it's the lack of cargo capacity. The cargo space behind the standard rear seats is less than some competitors have, and opting for the Bentley's four-seat layout drops cargo capacity to just 15.2 cubic feet.

Bentley is reporting an impressively high tow rating, but we have yet to see how that translates to SAE standards. The power-folding tow bar means the Bentayga can be equipped to tow without disrupting the car's sculpted lines.

For the price, the Bentayga starts with very little standard tech. Once optional upgrades are taken into account, the Bentayga can be had with a host of driver aids and excellent infotainment features.

The optional Naim system delivers exceptional audio quality, taking advantage of the Bentayga's quiet cabin. The alternate displays mean that navigation directions are easy to see without looking away from the road.

Apple CarPlay is available, but the Bentayga lacks Android Auto integration. Bentley does offer several smartphone apps, including one that allows Apple Watch owners to remotely control climate, seat functions and other functions.

The Bentayga can be had with all the modern driver aids that buyers expect, including adaptive cruise control and parking assist. It's a shame that almost none of these features are standard equipment.