Entry level" is a relative term deep into the luxury universe where the Bentley Bentayga lives. Yet, with a starting price that's $64,100 lower and a 542-hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 in place of the ultra-luxe SUV's optional 600-hp W-12 engine, that's exactly what the new-for-2019 Bentayga V8 is. (Don't worry, you can still spend crazy money on a Bentayga V8, as demonstrated by our example's $243,325 as-tested price, which included $75,600 in optional equipment.) No matter its engine, the Bentayga's mission remains the same: fending off the likes of Maserati's Levante, upper-level Range Rovers, and Rolls-Royce's Cullinan as well as upcoming pricey SUV competitors from Ferrari, Mercedes-Maybach, and others. Obviously, we were curious how much slower the Bentayga V8 might be relative to its 12-cylinder sibling. It turns out that it's barely slower at all. Even with 76 fewer horsepower and four fewer cylinders, the Bentayga V8 matched the 3.6-second zero-to-60-mph time of one of the two 12-cylinder models we've tested. A different 12-cylinder Bentayga accelerated to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Accelerating beyond 60 mph, the Bentayga V8 starts to cede ground to the more powerful W-12 model, which can reach 100 mph far more quickly. But given how rarely owners are likely to find themselves racing other Bentaygas at triple-digit speeds, we think the V-8 model's quickness up to and around highway speeds is laudable.
A new V8 variant joins the Bentayga lineup for 2019.The 2019 Bentley Bentayga comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.
Pros Incredible luxury and craftsmanship Powerful engine and quick acceleration Legitimate off-road capability Optional seating for up to seven
Cons Base trim lacks a few key features, especially for the price Limited rear-seat and cargo room
The Q8 debuted as a new model for the 2019 model year, so the changes are minimal for 2020. Some options were reshuffled, likely in response to customer demand, and the DVD player, which was previously located in the glovebox, has been omitted from the Q8 entirely.
Pros The cabin might as well be a design study, rides like a car, possesses the curb appeal of much pricier hardware.
Cons Losing a row of seats reduces practicality, expensive, still not as much fun as driving a sedan.
The 2020 Audi Q8's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Audi Q8 has a score of 7.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 21 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Handsome interior Spacious seats Composed ride and handling User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Subpar fuel economy
The 2020 Audi Q8 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Several previously optional features are now standard.Newly available Black Optic and S Line appearance packages.
Pros Comes well-equipped with many standard features Comfortable ride and seats for all passengers High-quality cabin materials Front and rear seats offer all-day comfort
Cons Less practical than the related Q7 Infotainment system can be distracting to use Throttle response is too slow in the default driving mode Limited interior storage
