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 2019 Lexus GX ranked #20 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Lexus GX has a score of 7.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 43 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent off-road capability High maximum towing capacity for the class
Cons Dated cabin design Unimpressive acceleration Stiff ride
The 2019 Lexus GX 460 comes with four wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Blind-spot monitoring now standard.
PROS Impressive off-road capability in a segment largely without it High seating position provides a good view of the road Easy-to-use interior controls
CONS Compromised cargo space and third-row seat Uncomfortable seats Poor fuel economy and acceleration Rough ride on broken pavement
The 2019 Lexus GX 460 delivers formidable capability, but it’s well behind crossover rivals in the ways most drivers use their SUVs.
Pros Solid feel Soft ride Formidable off-roader Smooth, sonorous V-8
Cons Awkward tailgate Tight third row Light steering Prodigious fuel thirst
