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 BMW X6 has powerful engines and a luxurious, high-tech cabin. You’ll forgo some space and practicality versus a BMW X5 though, and spend more doing it.
Pros SUVs don’t come much quicker Fantastic infotainment system Impressive interior quality
Cons X5 equivalent has better rear headroom Audi RS Q8 is easier on the eyes Smaller boot than every alternative
While the regular BMW X6 is in its fourth generation, the high-performance 2020 X6 M has just embarked on its third. It's hard to tell the difference between the all-new model and the one it replaces, but upon closer inspection there are noteworthy improvements. The 2020 iteration is more powerful for one, adding between 33 and 50 horsepower. Its bodywork received a subtle but sharper-looking makeover, and its cabin has been overhauled with a modernized aesthetic and better technology.
Pros Astonishing performance, unapologetically brutal design, long list of standard features.
Cons Hugely impractical, limited rear visibility, thirsty for fuel.
The 2020 BMW X6 M comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.600 horsepower in standard trim or 617 hp with the Competition package.All-wheel-drive system maximized for handling performance.Adaptive suspension with active roll stabilization.
Pros Massive power from both available engines Startling acceleration at any speed Impressive handling performance High-quality interior packed with features
Cons Stiff and sometimes unyielding ride Distinctive styling limits rear headroom and cargo capacity
