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
Lincoln's flagship SUV is now available for 2021 with an optional Monochromatic appearance package, which swaps out exterior chrome trim with darkened alternatives and replaces silver-painted wheels with black ones. Elsewhere, Lincoln has swapped out four of the Navigator's exterior colors—Asher Gray, Flight Blue, Green Gem, and Signature Navy—for four new ones—Iced Mocha, Silver Jade, Blue Diamond, and Rhapsody Blue.
PROS Plenty of power from twin-turbo V-6, super-spacious cabin, high-end appearance.
CONS Gas-guzzling powertrain, difficult to maneuver in traffic and when parking, harsh ride over big bumps.
The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Large SUVs category. Currently the Lincoln Navigator has a score of 8.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Posh, comfortable interior Easy-to-use technology More passenger and cargo space than most rivals Powerful engine
CONS Ride could be smoother
The 2021 Lincoln Navigator makes hard work look effortless with its lavish cabin and its twin-turbo V-6..
PROS Punchy twin-turbo engine Sharp infotainment Black Label luxury Spacious interior from all three rows Unapologetically stylish
CONS Thirsty, big, heavy, so what Maybe too flashy for some Stone-cold expensive
