Used 2017 Bentley Bentayga

2017 Bentley Bentayga: An Overview

The 2017 Bentley Bentayga, the British marque's inaugural foray into the luxury SUV segment, boldly redefined what an ultra-luxury SUV could be. It blended unparalleled opulence with formidable performance and groundbreaking technology, setting a new benchmark for its exclusive class.

Highlights

• Engine: The 2017 Bentayga is powered by a prodigious 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine. This powerhouse delivers a staggering 600 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, enabling the Bentayga to achieve a 0-60 mph sprint in as little as 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 187 mph. This monumental engine provides effortless acceleration and a refined, smooth power delivery befitting a Bentley.

• Safety Features: Bentley integrated a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features as standard and optional:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Assist: This system not only maintains a set speed but also adapts to traffic conditions, automatically braking and accelerating to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Traffic Assist further assists in stop-and-go situations.
  • Pre-Sense Front: Utilizes radar and camera systems to detect potential frontal collisions and can initiate automatic braking if the driver doesn't respond, potentially mitigating or avoiding accidents.
  • Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keeping Assist: Alerts the driver when the vehicle is drifting out of its lane and can provide gentle steering correction to keep the car within its lane boundaries.
  • Blind Spot Warning: Monitors the vehicle's blind spots and alerts the driver if a vehicle is detected, preventing dangerous lane changes.
  • Night Vision: Employs an infrared camera to detect pedestrians and animals in the dark, projecting the information onto the driver's display for enhanced nighttime visibility.
  • Head-Up Display: Projects key driving information, such as speed, navigation, and safety alerts, onto the windshield within the driver's line of sight, minimizing distractions.

• Trim Summary: While Bentley typically focuses on individual customization rather than strict trim levels, the 2017 Bentayga could be broadly categorized by its available configurations, with a significant emphasis on the Extended Moving Specification which offered enhanced comfort and luxury features for rear-seat occupants. The base model, while already exceptionally appointed, allowed for vast personalization through Bentley's Mulliner bespoke division.

• Other Notable Aspects:

  • Bentley Dynamic Ride: A revolutionary 48-volt active anti-roll control system that dramatically reduces body roll during cornering while maintaining a plush ride on straight roads.
  • Off-Road Specification (Optional): For those venturing beyond paved surfaces, this package included underbody protection and specialized driving modes for various terrains, demonstrating the Bentayga's surprising versatility.
  • Mulliner Bespoke Options: The pinnacle of personalization. Buyers could choose from an extensive palette of paint colors, interior leathers, wood veneers, and unique handcrafted detailing to create a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle.
  • Cabin Ambiance: The interior is a sanctuary of handcrafted luxury, featuring premium leather, exquisite wood veneers, and meticulous attention to detail, creating an atmosphere of refined comfort.
  • Infotainment System: A state-of-the-art system featuring a large central touchscreen, premium audio options (including a unique Naim for Bentley system), and advanced connectivity features.

What to Expect

Owning a 2017 Bentley Bentayga is an experience that extends far beyond simply driving a car. It's an immersion into a world of bespoke luxury and performance.

• Ownership Experience: Owners can expect a vehicle that elicits admiration and awe wherever it goes. The driving experience is supremely comfortable, powerful, and refined. The cabin is a haven of tranquility, making even the longest journeys a pleasure. Expect personalized service from Bentley dealerships, often including white-glove delivery and dedicated customer care.

• Maintenance: As expected from an ultra-luxury vehicle with a sophisticated W12 engine and advanced technology, maintenance for the Bentayga is specialized and can be costly. Regular servicing should be performed by authorized Bentley technicians who have the specific knowledge and tools required. Routine maintenance will include oil changes, filter replacements, and checks of all sophisticated systems. Due to the complexity of the vehicle, expect longer service times and potentially higher labor rates compared to mainstream luxury brands.

• Insurance: Insuring a vehicle of this caliber will undoubtedly be a significant expense. Premiums will reflect the Bentayga's high purchase price, powerful engine, advanced technology, and the cost of potential repairs. Comprehensive coverage will be essential, and owners should expect to pay a substantial annual premium.

Potential Considerations

While the Bentayga is an exceptional vehicle, there are a few aspects potential buyers should be aware of.

• Complexity of Systems: The sheer amount of advanced technology and sophisticated engineering means that any repairs or upgrades will likely be complex and require specialized knowledge and parts.
• Fuel Consumption: The powerful W12 engine, while incredibly capable, is not designed for fuel efficiency. Owners should anticipate a high fuel consumption rate, particularly when driving in urban environments or engaging in spirited acceleration.
• Vehicle Size and Maneuverability: While equipped with advanced parking aids and a suite of driver assistance systems, the Bentayga is a large and substantial vehicle, which may require some adjustment for drivers accustomed to smaller cars, especially in tight urban spaces.
• Customization Lead Times: While the extensive Mulliner customization options are a significant draw, they can also mean longer wait times for the vehicle to be built and delivered.

Overall Summary

The 2017 Bentley Bentayga was a groundbreaking debut that successfully transplanted Bentley's DNA into the SUV format. It offered an unmatched blend of opulent luxury, exhilarating performance, and cutting-edge technology, all wrapped in a distinctive and imposing design. For those seeking the ultimate expression of automotive luxury in an SUV package, the Bentayga stood in a class of its own, delivering an experience that was as exclusive as it was exhilarating.