2016 Bentley Bentayga W12 Review: The Dawn of the Ultra-Luxury SUV

Introduction: A New Paradigm of Luxury

When Bentley first announced its intention to build an SUV, the automotive world held its collective breath. Some purists winced at the thought of the historic British marque entering the high-riding utility segment. However, when the 2016 Bentley Bentayga W12 finally made its grand debut, it did not just silence the critics—it completely redefined the upper echelons of the automotive market. As the world's first true ultra-luxury SUV, the Bentayga established a brand-new segment, proving that high-performance off-road capability and uncompromising luxury could coexist in spectacular fashion.

An Unmistakable Exterior Presence

The exterior design of the 2016 Bentley Bentayga W12 is a masterclass in translating traditional grand touring proportions into a commanding SUV stance. At the front, the signature matrix grille is flanked by four distinctive round LED headlamps, featuring a flush-fitting design that integrates seamlessly into the superformed aluminum front fenders. This advanced manufacturing technique allows for sharp, clean body lines without unsightly joints, giving the vehicle a seamless, sculpted look.

Moving along the side, the muscular rear haunches—reminiscent of the Continental GT—give the Bentayga an athletic, powerful posture. Riding on standard 21-inch or optional 22-inch alloy wheels, the vehicle commands attention without relying on overly aggressive styling cues. While early concepts received mixed reviews, the production Bentayga W12 succeeded in delivering an imposing yet elegant aesthetic that is unmistakably Crewe.

The Heart of the Beast: The Twin-Turbo W12

At the center of the Bentayga's appeal is its monumental powerplant: an all-new 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine. This engineering marvel produces an astonishing 600 horsepower (608 PS) and 664 lb-ft (900 Nm) of torque, available from as low as 1,350 rpm. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a smooth-shifting ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

Despite weighing over 5,300 pounds (2,400 kg), the Bentayga W12 defies the laws of physics. It can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds) before reaching an incredible top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h). At its launch, this made the Bentayga the fastest and most powerful production SUV on the planet. The W12 also features cylinder deactivation technology, seamlessly shutting down six cylinders under light loads to improve fuel efficiency—though fuel economy remains a secondary concern for buyers in this class.

Revolutionary Driving Dynamics

To ensure that the Bentayga rode like a true Bentley, engineers equipped the vehicle with the world's first 48-volt electrical active roll control system, known as Bentley Dynamic Ride. Standard SUVs often suffer from excessive body roll in corners due to their high center of gravity. Bentley's innovative system instantly counteracts lateral rolling forces, keeping the cabin incredibly flat during spirited cornering while maintaining a plush, supple ride on straightaways.

The multi-mode air suspension offers four ride heights, allowing drivers to lower the vehicle for easy loading or raise it for off-road excursions. The multi-mode traction system includes responsive settings for snow, sand, mud, and gravel, proving that the Bentayga is a highly capable off-road machine, not just a boulevard cruiser. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering a level of agility that belies the vehicle's massive footprint.

An Interior Sanctuary of Handcrafted Opulence

Step inside the cabin, and you are greeted by an environment that sets a new benchmark for automotive luxury. Every surface is draped in the finest materials, from the buttery-soft bull hide leather (sourced from cold European climates to prevent insect bites from marring the hide) to the exquisite wood veneers that are hand-selected, mirror-matched, and finished in Bentley's wood shop.

The front seats feature 22-way electrical adjustment, heating, ventilation, and a choice of six massage programs. Rear passengers are treated to equally opulent accommodations, with optional individual seating configurations that include a rear console, entertainment tablets, and a refrigerated bottle holder. For those seeking the ultimate expression of luxury, Bentley offered the optional Mulliner Tourbillon by Breitling dashboard clock—a mechanical masterpiece wound periodically by the car's movement, costing nearly as much as the vehicle itself.

Infotainment is handled by an 8-inch touchscreen system with a 60GB hard drive, navigation, and seamless smartphone integration. Audiophiles can opt for the Naim for Bentley premium audio system, a 1,950-watt powerhouse with 20 speakers that transforms the cabin into a mobile concert hall.

A Lasting Legacy

The 2016 Bentley Bentayga W12 was a massive gamble for the British automaker, but it paid off handsomely. It paved the way for competitors like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Lamborghini Urus, and Aston Martin DBX, proving that the ultra-luxury SUV segment was not only viable but highly profitable. With its unmatched blend of earth-shattering performance, go-anywhere capability, and bespoke craftsmanship, the 2016 Bentayga W12 remains a monumental milestone in modern automotive history.