Bentley is exploring whether there is sufficient demand for a rugged, off-road variant of its Bentayga luxury SUV. The company recently unveiled the “Bentley X Concept” – a modified Bentayga Speed designed to gauge customer interest in a more adventurous version of the vehicle.
Elevated Performance and Capability
The X Concept builds upon the existing Bentayga Speed, retaining its powerful 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 478kW (642 hp) and 850Nm (626 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain is coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, ensuring high performance both on and off the pavement.
However, the key changes lie in the chassis and exterior. Bentley engineers have lifted the ride height by 55mm, increasing ground clearance to 310mm (12.2 inches). This allows for a wading depth exceeding 550mm (21.7 inches), making it capable of traversing deeper water crossings than the standard Bentayga.
Aggressive Design and Enhanced Traction
To accommodate the increased suspension travel and larger tires, the X Concept features a significantly wider stance. The track has been expanded by 120mm, requiring 40mm wider wheel arches. The car is fitted with 22-inch forged wheels from Brixton and Radar Renegade R/T+ 285/50 tires, enhancing grip and stability on loose surfaces.
The exterior design has been toughened up with blacked-out grille, sills, and lower bumper elements. Twin dark blue tow hooks are mounted at the front, while an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system adds a performance-oriented touch. A roof-mounted storage tray with integrated spotlights has been added, currently housing an electric go-kart, highlighting the vehicle’s potential for carrying outdoor gear.
Uncertain Future
Bentley has not yet announced any plans to put the X Concept into production. Instead, it is using the vehicle as a tool to gather feedback from potential customers. Whether the company will proceed with a more off-road oriented Bentayga remains to be seen, but the concept demonstrates Bentley’s willingness to explore new segments and cater to evolving customer demands.
The X Concept represents a bold move by Bentley, signaling its consideration of an off-road luxury segment. If customer response is positive, the Bentayga may soon be seen tackling more than just paved roads.
