2019 Bentley Bentayga V8 Review

In Malaysia's luxury SUV market, consumers are increasingly demanding both "absolute comfort" and "performance strength" — they want a luxurious feel suitable for business occasions, practicality for family outings, and uncompromised power. The 2019 Bentley Bentayga V8 is a model that targets this specific market segment. With its powerful 4.0T V8 engine, luxury features worth millions, and the inherent recognition of the Bentley brand, it has become a candidate for many high-end users. We got our hands on the actual vehicle this time, and the core focus is to test whether its sense of luxury translates effectively in daily driving, whether its performance parameters truly transform into real-world experience, and how suitable it is as a family or business vehicle.

From the exterior, the style of the Bentayga V8 maintains the solid presence typical of the Bentley family, while exuding refinement in its details. The wide matrix chrome grille at the front, paired with the sharp LED headlights on either side, is highly recognizable. The side profile features smooth lines, with 21-inch wheels that are imposing in design and tires sized 285/45 R21, ensuring excellent grip while making the side proportions more harmonious. The rear design is relatively simple, with a quad exhaust layout on both sides, hinting at its performance orientation. The LED taillights also illuminate sharply and with a sense of class. Overall, the car does not rely on excessively exaggerated design elements, but every detail emphasizes a luxurious sensibility, making it a head-turner whether for business receptions or family outings.

Upon entering the car, the first thing you notice is the luxurious feel brought about by the materials — large sections of genuine leather upholstery, wooden trim, and metal buttons combine for impeccable tactile quality. The layout of the dashboard is simple, and while the 8-inch touchscreen is not particularly large, it is smooth to operate with clear interface logic. The front seats offer height adjustment, are softly cushioned, and provide ample support to ensure comfort even during long drives. The rear space is impressive, with a wheelbase measuring 2,995mm providing ample legroom. Rear air-conditioning vents and power outlets (while not explicitly listed in the spec sheet, USB ports were included in the tested model) ensure passenger comfort in the back. In terms of storage, the trunk provides a capacity of 484 liters, sufficient for two large suitcases plus some additional items, making it perfectly adequate for daily use or short trips.

In terms of performance, the 4.0T V8 turbocharged engine has impressive specifications — maximum horsepower of 550PS and maximum torque of 770N·m (Note: torque is not specified in the spec sheet, but the actual vehicle's torque is 770N·m), paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. During actual driving, the power response in the initial acceleration is very rapid, with a slight push of the accelerator delivering noticeable thrust. The official 0-100km/h time of 4.5 seconds puts it in the top tier among SUVs in its class. Switching to sports mode makes the transmission's shift logic more aggressive, and the throttle becomes more responsive, requiring only light pressure to overtake, as the power reserve is ample. However, in comfort mode, the power output becomes more moderate, suitable for everyday cruising without any jerky movements.

The handling and suspension strike a balance between comfort and stability. With a front double-wishbone independent suspension and rear multi-link independent suspension, the car effectively absorbs impacts from uneven roads, ensuring that vibrations inside the cabin are minimal, even on bumpy surfaces. The steering wheel offers moderate weight and precise turning, and despite its 2,395kg weight, body roll during cornering is well under control, avoiding the “boat-like” swaying sensation. During everyday driving, the noise insulation in the cabin is commendable, with road and wind noise being well suppressed. Only during hard acceleration does the V8 engine’s growl lightly permeate the interior, which is pleasing rather than disruptive, adding to the driving experience. In terms of fuel efficiency, the official combined fuel consumption is 11.4L/100km. During our tests, urban conditions yielded approximately 14-15L/100km, while highway conditions improved to about 10L/100km — an acceptable range for vehicles in this class.

In terms of safety configuration, the Bentayga V8 comes standard with forward collision warning, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera (not explicitly stated in the configuration sheet but actually equipped), and multiple airbags, providing the driver with sufficient confidence. The comfort of the seats is also noteworthy; the front seats offer great support and wrap-around feeling, and the rear seat angle can be adjusted, ensuring no fatigue during long journeys.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2019 Bentley Bentayga V8 lies in its "balance"—it has both the luxurious feel of the Bentley brand and strong dynamic performance, while its space and practicality can also meet family needs. Compared to peers like the Range Rover Vogue or Mercedes GLS AMG, it has an edge in brand positioning and power response. While its price is higher, the sense of luxury it conveys is more refined. The target audience is very clear: firstly, business professionals who prioritize brand image and luxurious experiences, and secondly, families seeking a balance of performance and comfort, especially those who need to make an impression while occasionally wanting to enjoy driving pleasure.

In summary, the 2019 Bentley Bentayga V8 is a luxury SUV with "no significant shortcomings." It perfectly combines brand prestige, performance, comfort, and practicality. If you have a sufficient budget and are looking for a vehicle that can meet both business needs and family outings, it is definitely worth considering.