Bentley SUV confirmed for production

Bentley is to turn its controversial SUV concept into a production car.

What's the news?
Bentley Motors has confirmed that it will add a fourth model line by developing an all-new SUV. Scheduled to go on sale in 2016, the as-yet unnamed car will be built at the Crewe factory in the UK.

Details of the new model are sparse at present; although the company promises it will be 'a thoroughbred Bentley'. Styling is said to incorporate the brand DNA to set it apart from every other SUV while the interior should offer the luxury customers expect along with, according to Bentley, more power than any other off-roader on the market. Chances are that a 600hp version of Bentley's W12 engine will find its way under the bonnet while the platform is likely to be shared with the next generation Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7.

Although the styling of the EXP 9 F SUV concept attracted criticism in the press Bentley says customer feedback over the last 16 months has been positive. So far only a teaser sketch of the SUV's profile has been released.

Anything else?
Dr Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Volkswagen Group added, "Bentley fans all around the world are looking forward to the brand's first SUV. Together we will make this new Bentley another true Bentley - powerful, exclusive and successful."

Published on: July 25, 2013