by Aiden Eksteen
Along with the Bentayga S, V8, and Speed, the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid glides into the new year with some design enhancements and new feature upgrades. As the only semi-electrified ultra-luxury SUV on the market still, it's a special vehicle even for an already very exclusive, high-end SUV. Bentley ascertained that most owners of the first-generation Bentayga Hybrid drive it regularly and quite often in EV-only mode. For that reason, Bentley saw it fit to enhance the SUV's driving experience by refining its ride and further quietening its cabin. Beneath the hood, a 443-horsepower twin-turbo hybridized V6 engine still propels the Bentayga Hybrid. Meanwhile, a 17.3-kWh battery avails the SUV with a 31-mile all-electric driving range. There are still no direct competitors for the Bentayga Hybrid, but theRolls-Royce Cullinanis a compelling proposition, and, of course, theLand Rover Range Rover Hybridcaptures the appeal of the upper-middle-class masses. With its refreshed design, refined ride, and new tech, the Bentayga Hybrid SUV remains a desirable ultra-luxury cruiser.
For the 2021 model year, the Bentayga receives a mild refresh that comprises a more upright matrix grille, new elliptical LED matrix headlights and taillights, an all-new tailgate, and updated wheel designs. Bentley also brings in a brand-new 10.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. There's a wireless smartphone charging pad, and the dashboard has been updated with fresh styling.
See trim levels and configurations:
Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (MSRP) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hybrid |
3.0L Turbo V6 Hybrid |
8-Speed Automatic |
All-Wheel Drive |
$160,000 |
Hybrid First Edition |
3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 Plug-in Hybrid |
8-Speed Automatic |
All-Wheel Drive |
$160,000 |
Humming beneath the eloquent hood of the 2021 Bentayga Hybrid SUV is a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 gas engine that's been augmented with a single 126-hp E Motor and 17.3-kWh battery pack for combined outputs of 443 hp and 516 lb-ft. Power is commanded by an 8-speed automatic transmission and forwarded to the Bentayga Hybrid SUVs all-wheel drivetrain. With this powertrain, the Bentayga Hybrid SUV can be driven in one of three drive modes: EV Drive provides for up to 31 miles on electricity alone; Hybrid optimizes efficiency and range; Hold balances engine and electric power in order to hold a high voltage battery charge for later use. As an ultra-luxury vehicle, the Bentayga Hybrid does not have a towing capacity rating.
NHTSA safety ratings are not available at this time.
At the moment, the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid is the only semi-electrified ultra-luxury 5-door SUV on the US car market, so it's a one-of-a-kind vehicle. In terms of performance, the hybridized engine delivers a more refined and quieter drive, as well as slightly more frugal fuel-economy returns. Throttle responses are satisfying, and the standard air suspension kit with continuous damping control aids the Bentayga Hybrid in delivering a pleasant and sumptuous driving experience. This is further augmented by the Bentayga Hybrid's commodious and extravagant interior, which brims with the most modern comforts, conveniences, and technology the automotive realm has to offer. There is no official safety review of the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid, but you can rest assured that it has every advanced driver-assistance feature known to man. The First Edition model elevates the driving experience to an outrageous level with all of the luxuries it includes, but, of course, you will be paying more than just an arm and a leg for even the base model. That's part of the appeal, though, as the Bentayga Hybrid is a bespoke vehicle reserved for only the richest of the rich. If you can afford it and you're looking for a one-of-a-kind ultra-luxurious experience, then the Bentayga Hybrid will do.
With the exorbitantly high price of the 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid SUV, we assume that money is of no consequence for anyone buying in this classification. For this reason, we'd recommend going straight for the bespoke and collector's Bentayga Hybrid First Edition. The regular Bentayga Hybrid is opulent and unique, but the First Edition just takes things to the next level for a genuine, one-of-a-kind experience. It comes with Bentley's Mulliner Driving Specification, which includes LED welcome lamps by Mulliner, a dynamic ride system, First Edition badging, embroidery, and stitching, and 'BENTLEY' illuminated treadplates. It is also installed with the contents of the Touring Specification, which includes a good selection of advanced driver-assist features, and the Front Seat Comfort Specification, which significantly upgrades the front seats.
The most popular competitors of 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid: