RIP W12 – Bentley Bentayga Speed gets V8 twin turbo, open for orders in Malaysia

Nearly a year has passed since Bentley built its final W12 engine, marking the end of a powertrain legacy that spanned over two decades. But as the British luxury marque steps into a new chapter shaped by downsizing and electrification, it is not retreating on performance. The latest Bentayga Speed is here to prove that a V8 can carry the torch and possibly shine even brighter. The Bentley Bentayga Speed is now open for orders in Malaysia,

The W12 may be gone, but in its place sits a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. This powerplant is familiar across the Volkswagen Group but is now tuned for the ultimate expression of Bentley’s performance SUV. It delivers 641 hp, which is a modest gain of 15 hp over the old twelve-cylinder engine. Peak torque drops slightly to 850 Nm, which is 50 Nm less than before.

Despite the decrease in torque, performance has actually improved. With less mass to move, the Bentayga Speed now weighs 5,435 pounds or 2,465 kilograms, making it about 95 pounds lighter than its predecessor. This weight reduction helps the SUV accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. That is half a second quicker than the previous version. Top speed has also increased slightly to 310 km/h.

The move to a V8 has not only improved straight-line performance but also enhanced agility. A key addition is rear-wheel steering, which helps the large SUV feel more nimble at low speeds and more stable at high speeds.

Bentley has also revised the Sport driving mode. The suspension dampers are now 15 percent stiffer compared to the Bentayga V8 S. Steering response has been sharpened to deliver a more engaging and confident driving experience.

For fans of the W12’s distinctive soundtrack, Bentley has taken steps to ensure the new Bentayga Speed remains aurally satisfying. A standard sports exhaust system is now fitted to bring more drama to the drive. For an even bolder note, buyers can opt for an Akrapovič titanium exhaust system. This upgrade features quad exhaust tips instead of the usual dual layout.

The design updates are relatively discreet. The Bentayga Speed receives 23-inch Speed-specific alloy wheels, along with darker headlight and taillight elements. An optional contrasting black roof is available in either satin or gloss finish for added visual flair.

Inside the cabin, the standard chrome accents can be replaced with a darker tint to reinforce the sporty atmosphere. Bentley has also introduced new seat upholstery colors and an updated quilted pattern for a more contemporary look.

The Bentayga Speed now stands as the final pure internal combustion engine model in Bentley’s lineup. The rest of the range has already transitioned to hybrid powertrains. The iconic W12 was retired due to increasingly strict emissions regulations, and the clock is ticking for the remaining V8 models as well.

Bentley’s next new model will not have any combustion engine at all. It will be a fully electric SUV positioned below the Bentayga in size. This marks the beginning of Bentley’s full commitment to electrification.

While the farewell to the W12 signals the end of an era, the Bentayga Speed demonstrates that Bentley has not compromised on performance or character. It is lighter, quicker, more agile, and retains the refinement that defines the brand. According to Bentley, you are not losing an iota of what makes a Bentley, a Bentley. Judging by the numbers and updates, that claim holds plenty of truth. The new Bentayga Speed is now open for orders in Malaysia, offering local buyers a chance to experience the next chapter of Bentley performance.