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 2020 Maserati Levante ranked #11 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Maserati Levante has a score of 7.5 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Potent engine lineup Sharp handling
Cons Small cargo space for class Some uninspiring interior materials Poor fuel economy
The 2020 Maserati Levante comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Minor revisions to feature availability.
PROS Design differentiates it from the sea of look-alike crossovers Turbocharged V6 and V8 engines provide quick acceleration Suspension enhances ride comfort and handling around turns Highly customizable interior
CONS Some downmarket buttons and switches Short on cargo space
It's the new entry-level Maserati Levante and it's almost $15,000 less than the next rung up the ladder. It's still got a twin-turbo V6 and it still has loads of kit. So, what's not to like?
Pros It's still got a big presence It goes well and sounds even better Ride comfort is excellent with air suspension Sporty handling with solid composure Very comfortable cockpit and all the latest features including Apple CarPlay General refinement ZF eight-speed gearbox is a big plus
Cons Not as sharp as the Porsche Cayenne Generic rear styling Still 10 grand more than the Porsche
