Bentley Bentayga Smashes Production SUV Record At Pikes Peak

Bentley Bentayga set a new world record for the fastest production SUV to complete the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The Bentayga once again made it very clear to the world why it's better than its rivals.

As per the rules, a few modifications have been made in the Bentayga - the front seats were replaced with racing versions and the rear seats were removed, a roll cage and fire suppression system were installed, tires were selected from Pirelli's DOT-marked range, and a production-specification Akrapovic sports exhaust replaced the stock unit.

The Bentayga was being driven by two-time champion Rhys Millen (NZ). The 19.98 km course with 156 corners was covered by the Bentayga in a record-breaking time of 10:49.9. This is a whopping 2 minutes quicker than its previous record. The average speed of the Bentayga was 107.02 km/h. It was Millen's skills and Bentayga latest and sophisticated systems that made this run possible. The Bentayga comes with a massive W12 engine that produces 600 hp of power and 900 Nm of torque. It also has adaptive air suspension, active electric 48V anti-roll control, and carbon ceramic brakes.

Speaking on the remarkable achievement, Chris Craft, Member of the Board for Sales & Marketing, Bentley, said, “This record proves the outstanding dynamic ability of the Bentayga - demonstrating again how Bentley Motors is the only automotive company
in the world that can combine pinnacle luxury and breathtaking performance. Congratulations to all at Bentley Motorsport and to Rhys Millen and his team.”

Rhys Millen commented on his win, “What an incredible machine. To take a luxury SUV with minimal modifications and be able to drive up this course in under 11 minutes is a huge testament to the performance and level of engineering in the Bentayga. I had a great run - the car was planted all the way up and gave me the confidence I needed to push hard. I'm delighted to take the SUV record for Bentley and for everyone that's been involved in this
Project.”

To celebrate this win, Bentley announced a limited edition Bentayga which will be created and handcrafted by Mulliner - Bentley's in-house bespoke and coachbuilding division. This model will pay homage to the achievements of the Bentayga W12 on the mountain.

Only 10 units of the Pikes Peak Bentayga will be made. To make it a special car, Bentley has implemented various interesting elements. At the outside, there's a new finish available in either in deep Beluga black paint or striking Radium with 22-inch wheels in a bespoke two-tone finish of Beluga with Radium accents. The Black Specification is included, replacing all exterior chrome with gloss black components and adding a carbon fiber splitter, side skirts, diffuser and rear spoiler. A subtle Pikes Peak motif adorns the front fenders.

The interior of the Pikes Peak Bentayga will feature a Mulliner Design Colour Split with Key Lime accents and Beluga leather with Alcantara inserts to the seats and doors. The steering wheel and gear lever are also trimmed in Alcantara, and the headlining is technical Eliade cloth.

All other mechanicals of the Pikes Peak Bentayga is expected to be the same as that of the current production model of the Bentayga. Bentley will start accepting orders for the limited edition Bentayga from August for the customers in the US and Europe.