After announcing that the company will be fielding their Bentley Bentayga at the 96th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, the two-tonne ultra-luxury SUV manage to achieve what it set out to do – taking the title of fastest Production SUV.
Driven by two-time Pikes Peak champion, Rhys Millen, the Bentayga completed the 20 km uphill course in just 10:49.9 – nearly two minutes faster than the previous record holder, set by Land Rover Range Rover Sport in 2013.
With 600 hp and 900 Nm at their disposal from the 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 petrol engine, the Bentayga clocked an average speed of 107 km/h – way faster than its initial target. Its eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive system, adaptive air suspension, 48V anti-roll control and carbon ceramic brakes helped to set the new record.
The record-breaking Bentaya underwent minimal modifications as stipulated by regulations which include stripping away 300 kg worth of interior trim, roll rage, racing seats, Akrapovic Sports exhaust, Pirelli tyres and fire suppression system.
Speaking immediately after his run, Millen commented: “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 the record-breaking run, Bentley has announced a Limited Edition Bentayga created by Mulliner, the brand’s bespoke customisation arm. Only 10 units of the Pikes Peak Bentayga will be made.
Finished in either deep Beluga Black or Striking Radium (as pictured), the special edition car gets the Black Specification pack as standard that replaces all exterior chrome with gloss black components. Carbon fibre splitter, side skirts, diffuser, rear spoiler, Pikes Peak decals and 22-inch two-tone alloy wheels complete the exterior look of the car.
Inside, the Bentayga is furnished in Beluga leather with Key Lime accents, Alcantara inserts and Eliade cloth headlining. A Pikes Peak logo decorates the carbon fibre trim and numbered Pikes Peak treadplates complete the interior.
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Bentley Bentayga Takes Pikes Peak Record
Bentley Bentayga Pikes Peak Edition
