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 2018 Land Rover Range Rover is the pinnacle of SUVs.
Pros Astounding capability regardless of terrain Exceptional on-road ride and handling Impressive engine lineup As comfortable as any vehicle anywhere
Cons Dual touchscreens’ learning curve Eye-watering price Design is beginning to show its age Great off-road, but so rare to see a dirty one
The 2018 Land Rover Range Rover ranked #4 in Luxury Large SUVs. Currently the Land Rover Range Rover has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 36 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Legendary off-road ability Cushioned ride Roomy, posh cabin Powerful engines
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Less cargo space than competitors High price
For 2018, a number of minor design tweaks have been made to the exterior and interior. Most notably the interior ditches a lot of knobs and buttons in favor of a second touchscreen. New, top-of-the-line seats are available, and the SVAutobiography Dynamic trim gets a slight bump in horsepower.
PROS Excellent balance of off-road ability and luxury A wealth of interior and exterior options for customizing Long-wheelbase variant provides additional rear legroom Available with a diesel engine
CONS Standard engine's modest power may disappoint Capability means compromise, and highway steering may be too heavy for some Large wheels can bring vibration and noise into the cabin at highway speeds
