Bentley Previews Bentayga SUV at 2015 Detroit Show
Bentley offered a first glimpse of its upcoming Bentayga SUV at the 2015 North American International Auto Show, confirming the model’s development and hinting at its luxury ambitions.
Bentley used the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit to tease its forthcoming Bentayga SUV, confirming the model’s name and its position in the company’s range. The teaser, released in January 2015, marked the strongest signal yet that Bentley’s entry into the luxury SUV segment was imminent, with a full unveiling scheduled for later in the year.
The Bentayga is designed to extend Bentley’s reach beyond its traditional saloons and grand tourers, targeting customers seeking luxury with genuine off-road potential. The company’s messaging at Detroit focused on the SUV’s dual-purpose brief: high levels of refinement for road use, coupled with the ability to handle rougher terrain. The model is expected to become a benchmark for luxury SUVs, with Bentley aiming to set new standards in the segment.
Design and platform expectations
Although the Detroit teaser did not reveal full styling details, previous development mules and official hints suggest the Bentayga will feature a prominent matrix grille, round headlamps and a profile unmistakably linked to Bentley’s design language. Inside, the SUV is set to offer a digital instrument cluster, wood trim, metallic accents and high-grade leather, aligning with the marque’s established approach to luxury interiors.
The Bentayga is expected to use the Volkswagen Group’s MLB Evo platform, shared with other high-end SUVs in the group. Engine options at launch are likely to include Bentley’s 6.0-litre W12 and 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. Bentley has indicated that a plug-in hybrid version is in development, though it will follow after the initial petrol models reach market.
Launch timing and market ambitions
Bentley’s teaser at NAIAS confirmed that the Bentayga would be officially unveiled later in 2015, with production to follow at the company’s Crewe plant. The brand is targeting both established and emerging luxury SUV markets, aiming to attract buyers who might otherwise look to rivals such as Range Rover or high-end Porsche models.
- Bentley confirmed the Bentayga name at Detroit.
- Full reveal scheduled for later in 2015.
- Production planned at Crewe.
For more on the Bentayga’s eventual unveiling and technical details, see Bentley Bentayga debuts as world's most powerful SUV at Frankfurt.
