Speed, anywhere in luxury

By Nick Horne • Published: 07 Mar 2019 • 12:36

LIFESTYLE ACCESSORIES: Centenary leather goods, chair and sunglasses

MANY a Bentley owner will be well versed in the Centenary that Bentley Motors are celebrating this year.

This July 10 the company marks the 100th year. To spread the special star dust more widely Bentley have launched a limited edition of collectable lifestyle accessories such as clothing for men and women that include stylish polo shirts with the Crewe landmark logo on the front and the Centenary detailing; cufflinks, note books even lanyards.

Many of the more luxurious pieces are still available, including hand bags, leather jackets and pocket accessories including the Graf von Faber-Castell for Bentley pens. Each crafted to express a mind set and a lifestyle.

If, however you would prefer an actual Bentley motor car the company has launched what is billed as the fastest production SUV on the planet, the ‘Bentayga Speed’. A 626 bhp version of the six litre W12 engine that delivers a top speed of 190mph (306 km/h) with 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. This builds on the Bentley tradition of Speed models from the renowned Continental GT and pushes the performance of the Bentayga even further since claiming the production SUV record at the gruelling Pikes Peak Hill Climb last year.

The exterior has been elevated as wel l – a determined performance demands looks to suit. Dark tint headlights, body coloured side skirts and tailgate spoiler tell of the SUV’s potential performance even when stationary.

Dark tint radiator and bumper grills as well as unique 22-inch wheel design are available in three finishes silver, dark tint and black, with the Speed signature badging pointing to the sport performance.

The interior marks a change of pace with the first use of Alcantara materials in the Bentayga elegantly crafted detail around the door and door grab, on the edge for the seat cushions and backrest bolsters, as well as on the lower console. New contrast stitching on the diamond quilting, a discreet Speed badging as well as a Speed illuminated treadplate signature.

The all-wheel drive Speed is equipped with Electronic Differential lock and up to eight Drive Dynamics modes. The Sport mode has been tweaked, increasing the response from the W12 engine, to speak with a greater exhaust character and a firmer suspension tune to offer a more dynamic and diverting ride for the driver and no doubt his passengers.

Naturally the Bentayga Speed’s ceramic brakes are the largest and most powerful ever fitted to a Bentley while the Bentley Dynamic Ride system instantly counters lateral rolling forces when cornering, and ensures maximum tyre contact to deliver class leading cabin stability, ride comfort and exceptional handling.

Of course, the Bentayga Speed may be customised too. Handcrafted in Crewe England, the Bentagya is an expression of go anywhere luxury. With a top speed of 190 mph the Bentayga Speed’s package is what it says, fast and luxurious.