2023 Bentley Bentayga Review: The Benchmark Ultra-Luxury SUV

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga is not the kind of vehicle you buy because you need it. You buy it because you want it, and that distinction matters. This is a $200,000 SUV that competes with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Lamborghini Urus, and Aston Martin DBX, but it approaches the segment differently than its rivals. Where the Cullinan leans into old-world opulence and the Urus chases supercar performance, the Bentayga tries to be everything to everyone. And that is precisely what makes it so compelling.

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga offers three powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid, a twin-turbo V8, and a monstrous W12 in the Speed variant. It seats five in standard form, with an extended-wheelbase version available for those who want even more rear legroom. It tows up to 7,700 pounds, which is genuinely useful for a vehicle in this class. And it does all of this while wrapping you in leather, wood, and metal that would make a luxury sedan jealous.

This is not a vehicle for the faint of heart or the light of wallet. But for those who can afford it, the 2023 Bentley Bentayga delivers an experience that few other SUVs can match.

Our Take

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga is one of the most well-rounded ultra-luxury SUVs on the market. It is not the most opulent—that title belongs to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. It is not the most powerful—the Lamborghini Urus has it beat. And it is not the most driver-focused—the Aston Martin DBX is more engaging on a twisty road. But the Bentayga does everything well. Whether you are behind the wheel or relaxing in the second row, it consistently delivers the kind of effortless luxury Bentley buyers expect.

That said, the Bentayga is not perfect. The infotainment interface is not as intuitive as some rivals, the fuel economy is abysmal, and the base price of $197,300 is just the beginning. Option packages can push the price well past $250,000, and the Speed variant starts at $264,600. This is a vehicle that demands a significant commitment, and buyers should go in with their eyes open.

Few SUVs manage to blend comfort, craftsmanship, and everyday usability as successfully as the Bentayga. It is not the cheapest, nor is it the most extreme, but it is among the most complete.

Pros

• Exquisite interior craftsmanship with premium materials throughout
• Multiple powertrain options including a plug-in hybrid and a 626-hp W12
• Smooth and composed ride quality even on rough roads
• Genuinely useful towing capacity of 7,700 pounds
• Available extended-wheelbase version for additional rear legroom
• Quiet and refined cabin that isolates occupants from the outside world

Cons

• Base price of $197,300 is just the starting point; options add up quickly
• Infotainment interface is not as intuitive as some rivals
• Poor fuel economy, especially with the V8 and W12 engines
• Hybrid variant has limited electric range of just 18 miles
• Some advanced safety features require expensive option packages
• High ownership costs due to depreciation and maintenance

What’s New for 2023

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga carries over with minimal changes, as Bentley continues to refine its flagship SUV rather than reinvent it. The biggest news for 2023 is the continued availability of the plug-in hybrid variant, which combines a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with an electric motor for a total output of 443 horsepower. The hybrid offers an EPA-rated 18 miles of all-electric range and returns 20 mpg combined when the battery is depleted.

The Extended Wheelbase (EWB) version, which adds 7.1 inches of rear legroom, remains available for buyers who prioritize passenger space. The Azure trim, which focuses on comfort and wellness features, and the S trim, which adds sportier styling and handling, round out the lineup.

There have been no major mechanical or technological overhauls for 2023, which is typical for a vehicle at this price point. Bentley tends to make incremental improvements rather than sweeping changes, and the Bentayga continues to benefit from that approach.

Exterior Design: Presence Without Pretense

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga is a large and imposing SUV, but it carries its size with grace. The design is unmistakably Bentley, with a prominent matrix grille, circular headlights, and a muscular stance that commands attention. The body lines are clean and sculpted, giving the Bentayga a sense of motion even when it is standing still.

The rear features a distinctive taillight design that echoes Bentley’s sedans, and the quad exhaust outlets on the V8 and Speed variants add a sporty touch. The S trim adds darker exterior accents and unique wheels, while the Azure trim emphasizes chrome and a more polished appearance.

The Bentayga is not the most striking SUV in its class—the Lamborghini Urus is more dramatic, and the Aston Martin DBX is more sculpted. But it is the most timeless. This is a design that will age well, and for buyers who plan to keep their Bentayga for years, that matters.

Driving Experience: Smooth, But Not Dull

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga is a vehicle that feels smaller than it actually is. The air suspension, which is standard across all trims, provides a smooth and composed ride that absorbs road imperfections with authority. On the highway, the Bentayga is exceptionally quiet, with minimal wind and road noise intrusion.

The steering is light and easy to manage at low speeds, but it firms up nicely at higher speeds, providing a sense of confidence and control. The Bentayga handles corners with surprising agility, especially in the S trim, which adds sportier suspension tuning and rear-wheel steering.

The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, which produces 542 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque, is the engine that most buyers will choose. It delivers smooth, effortless power that makes highway merging and passing feel almost trivial. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, and the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all conditions.

In real-world driving, the Bentayga feels like a luxury sedan that happens to have SUV proportions. It is not as sharp as the Lamborghini Urus, nor as floaty as the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. It occupies a sweet spot between the two, and that is exactly where it should be.

Performance and Acceleration: Three Engines, Three Personalities

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga offers three powertrain options, and each one changes the character of the vehicle in meaningful ways.

The plug-in hybrid model combines a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with an electric motor to produce 443 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It is not the quickest Bentayga in the lineup, but a 0-60 mph time of around 5.1 seconds is still impressive for a luxury SUV of this size. The hybrid also provides up to 18 miles of electric driving, making it the most efficient option in the range. For buyers who want to reduce their fuel consumption without sacrificing the Bentayga experience, this is the sensible choice.

The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 is the heart of the Bentayga lineup. It delivers 542 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque, propelling the 2.5-ton SUV to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The V8 emits a hearty burble on its way to speed, and it is the engine that most buyers will choose. It offers the best balance of performance and everyday usability, with enough power to make highway merging effortless and enough refinement to keep the cabin serene. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, and the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all conditions.

For those who want the ultimate Bentayga experience, the Speed variant features a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 engine producing 626 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. This engine is silky smooth and effortlessly powerful, propelling the Speed to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. The W12 is intoxicating, but it comes with an equally intoxicating fuel bill—12 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. For buyers who prioritize performance above all else, the Speed is the only choice. Frankly, the V8 is the smarter buy, but the W12 is the one you will remember.

Ride Comfort and Cabin Refinement: Library Quiet

Ride comfort is one of the Bentayga’s strongest attributes. The air suspension, which is standard across all trims, provides a smooth and controlled ride that absorbs road imperfections with authority. On the highway, the Bentayga is exceptionally quiet, with minimal wind and road noise intrusion.

The seats are wide, roomy, and supportive, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions available on higher trims. The extended-wheelbase version adds 7.1 inches of rear legroom, making it one of the most spacious SUVs in its class.

The cabin is insulated from the outside world to an almost absurd degree. You can have a conversation at highway speeds without raising your voice, and the optional Naim audio system fills the cabin with crystal-clear sound.

Interior: Where Bentley Still Wins Without Trying

The interior of the 2023 Bentley Bentayga is a masterclass in craftsmanship. The materials are exquisite, with soft leather, genuine wood trim, and polished metal accents throughout. The design is clean and elegant, with a focus on comfort and usability.

The front seats are wide and supportive, with 22-way adjustability available. The second row offers generous legroom, and the extended-wheelbase version adds even more. The cargo area offers 17.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 62.6 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The Bentayga’s interior is not the most modern in its class—the Aston Martin DBX has a more contemporary design, and the Lamborghini Urus is more dramatic. But the Bentayga’s interior is the most timeless. It is a space that feels special every time you climb inside.

Technology and Infotainment: Functional, But Frustrating

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga features a 10.9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is functional and responsive, but the interface is not as intuitive as some rivals. Some users have noted that the screen can be slower to react than in less expensive vehicles, and the icons can be small and hard to pinpoint while driving. It is a reminder that even the world’s best materials cannot fix a clumsy interface.

The digital instrument cluster is crisp and clear, and the optional head-up display projects key information onto the windshield. The voice control system works well, but it is not as advanced as some competitors.

One area where the Bentayga excels is its audio system. The optional Naim system delivers 1,800 watts of power and 20 speakers, providing an immersive listening experience that few competitors can match.

Fuel Economy: Don’t Expect Miracles

Fuel economy is not a strong suit of the 2023 Bentley Bentayga. The V8 returns 14 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. The Speed drops to 12 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 14 mpg combined. The hybrid is the most efficient, offering 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined when the battery is drained. It also provides up to 18 miles of all-electric range.

In real-world driving, owners report figures consistent with these estimates. The V8 is the most popular choice, and it returns acceptable fuel economy for a vehicle of this size and power. The Speed is thirsty, and the hybrid offers the best efficiency, though its electric range is limited.

Practicality and Cargo Space: Surprisingly Useful

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga is surprisingly practical for an ultra-luxury SUV. The cargo area offers 17.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 62.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. This is enough for luggage for a family vacation or a set of golf clubs.

The Bentayga can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, which is genuinely useful for a vehicle in this class. This makes it a viable option for buyers who need to tow a trailer or boat.

The extended-wheelbase version adds 7.1 inches of rear legroom, making it one of the most spacious SUVs in its class. This is a meaningful upgrade for buyers who regularly carry rear passengers.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The system works well in practice, providing useful warnings without being overly intrusive.

The Bentayga has not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it is built to the highest standards of safety and durability. The extended-wheelbase version also offers a 3500kg braked towing capacity.

However, some advanced safety features require expensive option packages, which is a notable omission at this price point. Buyers should be aware of this when configuring their vehicle.

Competitors Worth Considering

Rolls-Royce Cullinan: This is the most opulent SUV money can buy. It starts at $374,000 and makes the Bentayga feel almost accessible. The Cullinan is for buyers who want to be driven, not to drive. It is a statement, not a tool. The Bentayga is the better choice for owners who actually enjoy being behind the wheel.

Lamborghini Urus: The Urus is the most powerful and dramatic SUV in its class. Its 657-horsepower V8 handles like a sports car, but it is also less comfortable and less practical. It starts at $275,000. The Urus is for buyers who want performance and style above all else. The Bentayga is the more sensible choice.

Aston Martin DBX: The DBX is the most driver-focused SUV in its class. It offers sharp handling, a powerful V8, and a more contemporary interior design. It starts at $185,900, less than the Bentayga. The DBX is for buyers who want a more engaging driving experience. The Bentayga is for buyers who want a more luxurious and comfortable experience.

Mercedes-AMG GLS 63: This is the value play. It starts at $151,050 and offers a powerful V8 hybrid engine, a spacious interior, and strong performance. But it lacks the Bentley’s craftsmanship and prestige. The GLS 63 is for buyers who want performance and luxury at a more accessible price. The Bentayga is for buyers who want the real thing.

Biggest Strength and Biggest Weakness

Biggest Strength: The 2023 Bentley Bentayga’s greatest asset is its balance. It offers a combination of luxury, performance, and practicality that few other ultra-luxury SUVs can match. The interior is exquisitely crafted, the V8 engine delivers effortless power, and the ride quality is smooth and composed. Living with a Bentayga is expensive, but few luxury SUVs feel this special every time you climb inside.

Biggest Weakness: The Bentayga’s biggest weakness is its price. The base MSRP of $197,300 is just the starting point, and option packages can push the price well past $250,000. The infotainment interface is not as intuitive as some rivals, and the fuel economy is abysmal. For buyers who prioritize value or cutting-edge technology, the Bentayga may not be the best choice.

Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?

Cardrav recommends the V8 trim for most buyers. It offers the best balance of performance, luxury, and value, with a 542-horsepower twin-turbo V8, a luxurious interior, and a starting price of $197,300. The V8 is the engine that most buyers will choose, and for good reason.

The Hybrid trim is a good choice for buyers who want to reduce their fuel consumption. The Speed trim is for buyers who want the ultimate Bentayga experience, with a 626-horsepower W12 and a starting price of $264,600. The Azure trim is for buyers who prioritize comfort and wellness features, while the S trim is for buyers who want a sportier driving experience.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2023 Bentley Bentayga?

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga is one of the best all-around ultra-luxury SUVs on the market. It is not the most opulent, the most powerful, or the most driver-focused, but it is among the most complete. It offers a combination of luxury, performance, and practicality that few other vehicles in its class can match.

Who should buy it: Buyers who want a luxury SUV that does everything well. Those who appreciate exquisite craftsmanship and a smooth, composed ride. Buyers who value the Bentley badge and the prestige that comes with it. If you are spending this kind of money, the Bentayga is the safe choice. And in this segment, safe is not a bad thing.

Who should avoid it: Buyers who prioritize value or cutting-edge technology. Those who need the most opulent interior or the most powerful engine. Buyers who are concerned about fuel economy or high ownership costs. If you are worried about depreciation, this is not the SUV for you.

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga is not a vehicle for everyone, but for those who can afford it, it is one of the most rewarding SUVs on the market.

FAQ

Is the 2023 Bentley Bentayga Review positive when it comes to reliability?

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga is generally reliable, but it has had some notable recalls. Bentley recalled 3,527 Bentaygas from 2017-2023 over a risk of fuel leak and fire. The plug-in hybrid variant has also been recalled for a potential battery overheating issue that could lead to a fire. These recalls are serious but have been addressed by Bentley, and the company is not aware of any injuries or accidents related to these issues. Buyers should ensure that any recalls have been performed before purchasing.

What does the 2023 Bentley Bentayga Review say about fuel economy?

The V8 returns 14 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. The Speed returns 12 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 14 mpg combined. The hybrid returns 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined when the battery is drained. The hybrid also offers 18 miles of all-electric range. The point is not efficiency. The point is that you are paying for a V8 or W12 and the fuel bill that comes with it.

How does the 2023 Bentley Bentayga compare to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Lamborghini Urus?

The Bentley Bentayga offers one of the best balances of luxury, performance, and practicality. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is more opulent and prestigious, with a V12 engine and a starting price of $374,000. The Lamborghini Urus is more powerful and dramatic, with a 657-horsepower V8 and a starting price of $275,000. The Bentayga is the best choice for buyers who want a luxury SUV that does everything well.

How much cargo space does the 2023 Bentley Bentayga have?

The 2023 Bentley Bentayga offers 17.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 62.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. This is enough for luggage for a family vacation or a set of golf clubs.

Is the 2023 Bentley Bentayga good for families?

Yes, the 2023 Bentley Bentayga is an excellent family SUV for those who can afford it. It offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for five, generous cargo space, and a smooth, quiet ride. The extended-wheelbase version adds 7.1 inches of rear legroom, making it even more family-friendly. However, the Bentayga’s size can be challenging in tight parking situations, and the fuel economy is poor.

Does the 2023 Bentley Bentayga have a plug-in hybrid option?

Yes, the 2023 Bentley Bentayga offers a plug-in hybrid variant with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 and an electric motor, producing 443 horsepower. The hybrid offers 18 miles of all-electric range and returns 20 mpg combined when the battery is drained. It is the most efficient Bentayga you can buy, but efficiency is relative in this class.