Entry level" is a relative term deep into the luxury universe where the Bentley Bentayga lives. Yet, with a starting price that's $64,100 lower and a 542-hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 in place of the ultra-luxe SUV's optional 600-hp W-12 engine, that's exactly what the new-for-2019 Bentayga V8 is. (Don't worry, you can still spend crazy money on a Bentayga V8, as demonstrated by our example's $243,325 as-tested price, which included $75,600 in optional equipment.) No matter its engine, the Bentayga's mission remains the same: fending off the likes of Maserati's Levante, upper-level Range Rovers, and Rolls-Royce's Cullinan as well as upcoming pricey SUV competitors from Ferrari, Mercedes-Maybach, and others. Obviously, we were curious how much slower the Bentayga V8 might be relative to its 12-cylinder sibling. It turns out that it's barely slower at all. Even with 76 fewer horsepower and four fewer cylinders, the Bentayga V8 matched the 3.6-second zero-to-60-mph time of one of the two 12-cylinder models we've tested. A different 12-cylinder Bentayga accelerated to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Accelerating beyond 60 mph, the Bentayga V8 starts to cede ground to the more powerful W-12 model, which can reach 100 mph far more quickly. But given how rarely owners are likely to find themselves racing other Bentaygas at triple-digit speeds, we think the V-8 model's quickness up to and around highway speeds is laudable.
A new V8 variant joins the Bentayga lineup for 2019.The 2019 Bentley Bentayga comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.
Pros Incredible luxury and craftsmanship Powerful engine and quick acceleration Legitimate off-road capability Optional seating for up to seven
Cons Base trim lacks a few key features, especially for the price Limited rear-seat and cargo room
The 2019 Audi e-tron is the way for families to go fully electric in a familiar and very luxurious package.
Pros Nicely proportioned exterior A back seat large enough for adults Very quiet, comfortable ride Speedy 150-kw fast charging capability
Cons Range doesn’t measure up to Tesla 150-kw chargers still few and far between Too much left to touchscreens Climate controls too low in the line of sight
As the floodgates on our new EV future open, Audi presents its offer in the form of the new e-tron electric SUV. Expect it here in the third quarter of 2019.
Pros Quality Performance Space Comfort
Cons Price Infrastructure development Range fluctuations Door mirror cameras
The Audi e-tron is an all-new vehicle.Part of the first e-tron generation introduced for 2019.The 2019 Audi e-tron comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 1-speed direct drive.
Pros Smooth and decisive acceleration Spacious and comfortable interior Lots of standard and available safety and tech features
Cons Infotainment operation can be distracting Slower acceleration than some EV rivals
