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 Lexus LX 570 marries an old-school SUV portfolio with all the leather, all the wood, and almost all the space.
Pros Big V-8 power Plush cabin Great for towing Big, and big inside
Cons Kludgy, tiny, fixed third-row seat Horrible gas mileage Elephantine handling Bracing front-end style
The 2018 Lexus LX ranked #5 in Luxury Large SUVs. Currently the Lexus LX has a score of 8.2 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 63 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Cushioned ride Great for off-roading Upscale cabin History of high predicted reliability ratings
Cons Less cargo space than rivals Subpar fuel economy Distracting infotainment system controller
The 2018 Lexus LX 570 is essentially unchanged.The LX 570 comes in only one trim level and offers just a few options. Get the sensational Mark Levinson sound system. If you have kids, you might also be tempted by the rear-seat entertainment system.
PROS High off-road capability for a luxury SUV Beautifully crafted cabin
CONS Poor fuel economy, even for a luxury SUV Tech interface is distracting to use Second and third rows lack space and versatility
