In 2015, Bentley unveiled the Bentayga, the first true luxury SUV. Three years later, they shattered expectations again with the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid, the world's first premium luxury SUV. Sure, hybrids mostly compromise something, but not the Bentayga Hybrid. It's in every inch comparable to the Bentayga W12 and Bentayga V8, which debuted in the same year but with a slight performance loss. However, what it loses in performance numbers it accounts for in efficiency and ride refinement for those who might consider the V8 and W12 engines too rowdy. As the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid has continued to evolve like other models, this review takes you through what the 2021 model year has to offer.
When the Bentley Bentayga debuted it wasn't just the most luxurious all-terrain vehicle ever built, but it was also a masterpiece of hand-craftsmanship that has been Bentley's stronghold for decades. Its symphony of technology, speed, and power converged to create an unparalleled driving experience that the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid still provides despite having a smaller engine and being a hybrid. Before the hybrid powertrain, Bentley had added a diesel engine powertrain, which the automaker claimed was the most refined 8-cylinder diesel engine. It was developed to deliver world-class Bentley Performance with the extended range of a diesel engine. The Bentayga Hybrid promised the same, but it was also Bentley's first step towards an electric future, embracing forward-thinking technology to enhance modern living. How does the Bentayga Hybrid compare to the Bentayga V8? Read on to find out.
Instead of adding batteries and electric motors to the existing W12 and V8 powertrains for the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid, Bentley chose a 335-horsepower turbocharged V6 complemented by a 126-horsepower electric motor. Total power output is 443 horsepower and 516 lb.ft, enough to accelerate the car to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and to a top speed of 158 mph. Like in most hybrids, the electric motor is placed between the engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission and can power the car in EV mode only for 18 miles. But despite that and improved fuel economy, it does lose a bit of agility since the 2021 Bentayga Hybrid weighs 5,831 pounds, around 500 pounds more than the 2021 Bentley Bentayga V8.
The 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid's interior retains Bentley's signatory blend of leather, wood, and chrome, which come together to give the cabin a classic and timeless elegance. The leather is used in every detail, from the dashboard, door cards, center console, steering wheel, and the seats, which cradle you like a clove. Soft perforations and quilted stitching on the door cards add a touch of visual interest, beckoning you to run your hands through the leather. And whether you are in the front or back seats, there's enough legroom and headroom to stretch out and relax in the cabin's warm and inviting luxury.
On the outside, the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid is similar to other models, and you wouldn't even tell it apart as it still has smooth sweeping lines and bulky appeal. The only way to distinguish it is by the small Hybrid badges on the doors and the charge port on the left rear fender. At the front, Bentley's signature grille sets the tone for the Bentayga Hybrid's luxurious character. It's finished in chrome, unlike the grille on the Bentayga V8, but it sparkles in the sun, complementing the diamond elements in the headlights.
Being a Hybrid, the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid gets different drive modes than other models. These include Hybrid, Hold, and EV drive. In Hybrid mode, intelligent technology ensures the most appropriate power source between the electric motor and engine is used, minimizing emissions and enhancing fuel economy. Hold mode saves the battery charge for city driving, which you can do in EV-drive mode, in which the electric motors power the car without engine interruption. The onboard navigation system works in tandem with the hybrid powertrain, strategically preserving battery power depending on charging stations indicated on the map. Additionally, Bentley equipped the 2021 Bentayga Hybrid with an intelligent accelerator pedal, which delivers feedback as you approach a bite point where additional power is required from the V6 engine, for example, when overtaking. When you lift your foot off the accelerator, the system seamlessly shuts off the V6 engine, maximizing efficiency and minimizing fuel consumption.
Despite being a hybrid, the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid doesn't compromise on Bentley's luxurious offerings. Sure, it might be a bit slower than other models, but it's a small trade-off for leaving a lighter footprint on the planet. Prices average around $120,000, which is the perfect price point for a car that prioritizes sustainability and, most importantly, luxury. If you've spent some time looking for the perfect example, the hunt for a 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid ends here. Exotic Car Trader's Bentley listings incorporate a curated selection of Bentley Bentaygas, and if you need any help buying, our team is here to guide you through every step.
By combining the luxury and performance of the Bentayga line with hybrid technology, the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid not only meets the high standards set by its purely ICE counterparts but also embraces the demands of modernity and sustainability. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our transactions team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! As Bentley continues to push boundaries and embrace new technologies, the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid serves as a beacon of the brand's unwavering dedication to excellence in pursuing automotive perfection.
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