Bentley SUV starts testing on roads; snapped!

This is the first time that a closer-to-production model of the new Bentley SUV was snapped testing in Europe. Interestingly, the test mule was draped in all-black hue with a massive ‘NewBentley.com’ sticker pasted on the doors, as if anticipating it to be spotted by the shutterbugs.

It’s been two years since Bentley unveiled it’s first-ever SUV at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, in the shape of Bentley EXP 9 F concept. Back then, the luxury SUV concept received mixed response from the industry and car enthusiasts globally for its bold attempt.

So, in spite of trying to camouflage their closer-to-production version, the Bentley SUV captured in these pictures reveal that there are definitely some changes which the car makers have tried to incorporate. And they do shed some light on the overall body proportions of this 4x4 SUV.

Of course, one cannot miss Bentley’s signature wireframe grille flanked by the twin-round LED headlights, hinting at Continental GT-like design, albeit having a much taller profile. The rear re-styling (from the prototype show in Geneva) now includes new LED taillights. 

Zooming in on these spy pictures of the Bentley SUV reveals its luxurious interiors, which are expected to include a digital instrument cluster and even a head-up display. The production ready Bentley SUV will be based on the new and light weight aluminum architecture which will also underpin Volkswagen Groups’ other flag bearing SUVs, like the next generation Audi Q7 and Volkswagen Touareg.

The top-end model of the Bentley SUV is expected to squeeze in a massive W12 6.0-litre petrol power-plant under its bonnet. Also on offer will be a more practical 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, while diesel lovers will get Volkswagen’s trusted V8 TDI, tuned for the Bentley’s requirements.

Though the company has not finalised the model name for Bentley’s new SUV, chances are that it might just continue with its code name Bentley Falcon, (suggested by the last letter of its concept name – ‘EXP 9 F’). The Bentley SUV would be launched in 2016 with a starting price of about Rs 1.4 crore internationally.

Spy image: KGP Photography via Autoblog.com