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
Sure, crossovers make more sense as luxury vehicles. But that's not why you want a 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class in your garage.The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a soldier in a business suit.
Pros Classic authenticity That “clunk” the doors make when they close Wild off-road ability from the G550 4x4² Faster than it ever should be
Cons Or you could buy seven Jeep Wranglers, one for every weekday Light on safety tech G550 4x4² presents many urban challenges New 2019 just around the corner
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ranked #8 in Luxury Large SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 80 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent off-roader Powerful engines Premium cabin materials
Cons Abysmal fuel economy Subpar on-road handling Below-average cargo space Shorter features list than rivals High price
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class remains mostly unchanged for 2018. It will be fully redesigned for the 2019 model year. To commemorate the end of a very long production run, a few special-edition models be available and are limited to cosmetic touches inside and out.
PROS Iconic design is instantly recognizable Outstanding forward visibility Unusually quiet when on the road Lots of cosmetic customization potential
CONS Compromised off-road ability Poor interior packaging leaves little useful space Difficult to get into and out of Awful steering, handling, drivability and fuel economy
