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 BMW X6 pioneered the sloped-roof SUV segment and maintains high quality and performance, but it’s showing its age.
Pros Head-turning looks Strong powertrains Interior build quality Luxurious options
Cons Tight rear seat Measly cargo space Too expensive Not as fun as it could be
For 2019, the X6 receives several new standard features and revised option packages. Every model now features standard Apple CarPlay and these driver assists: automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and speed-limit information. The six-cylinder versions can now be had with the Convenience package, which adds four-zone automatic climate control, a one-year SiriusXM satellite radio subscription, and passive entry. Likewise, this package is now included with the M Sport package on six-cylinder models. The Premium package is updated to include self-parking assist, a head-up display, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot; the Executive package adds soft-close doors, rear manually operated side window shades, adaptive headlights that turn with the steering wheel, and automatic high-beams.
Pros Spectacular powertrains, fantastic infotainment system, well-to-do interior.
Cons styling, compromised practicality, cost of options adds up fast.
More advanced driver safety aids are now standard.Apple CarPlay is now standard (subscription-based).The 2019 BMW X6 may be called a "coupe" by its makers' marketing wizards, but it's really a five-passenger midsize SUV with the boxy bit at the back chopped off.
PROS Engines provide strong acceleration Comfortable and quiet ride Quality interior with comfortable front seats
CONS Sloping roofline cuts down cargo space Hard to see out the back Limited rear headroom
