It’s hard to believe that nine years have passed since Bentley ventured into the SUV segment with the Bentayga. Launched in late 2015 at the brand’s Crewe, UK, factory, this opulent behemoth marked a significant departure for the storied automaker.
Rather than developing a bespoke platform, Bentley opted for a pragmatic approach, utilizing the Volkswagen Group’s MLB Evo architecture, a foundation shared by several other large SUVs under the same corporate umbrella.
To appeal to a global clientele with diverse preferences, the Bentayga was offered a variety of powertrains, including a surprising yet potent diesel V8. As the luxury world changed, so too did the Bentayga, with electrification joining the lineup. However, the iconic W12 engine, a Bentley hallmark for over two decades, recently bid farewell with the final examples rolling off the production line last month.
This powerful twelve-cylinder unit, which graced models like the Continental GT and Flying Spur, will be succeeded by a hybridized 4.0-liter V8 delivering an impressive 771 horsepower. The Bentley Bentayga, despite its foundation being less extravagant than one might expect from a luxury SUV, has proven remarkably popular.
Owners have embraced the opportunity to personalize their vehicles, with modifications ranging from subtle to extreme. From simple wheel swaps and interior refinements to bold exterior styling kits and performance upgrades, the Bentayga has become a canvas for owners’ desires.
While many choose to enhance their SUVs with tasteful wheel upgrades, the owner of this particular Bentayga took a more daring approach. Opting for oversized alloys, they’ve created a striking, if controversial, visual statement that undeniably sets this vehicle apart from the crowd.
