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 2021 Maserati Levante is unranked in Luxury Midsize SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the Maserati Levante's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data.
Pros Tremendous engine power Dynamic handling Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Poor gas mileage Some unimpressive cabin materials and subpar cargo capacity Much more expensive than most class rivals
Updated driver display and infotainment screens for 2021.
PROS Quick acceleration Stable and lively handling Not your typical German luxury SUV
CONS Some downmarket buttons and switches Short on cargo space
The Levante receives Maserati's new infotainment interface for 2021, but unlike its sedan siblings—the Ghibli and Quattroporte—it sticks with an 8.4-inch display. The new software is based on Google's Android Automotive and offers a voice-activated virtual assistant, in-dash navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto; a wireless charging pad is also new this year.
Pros Seductive exterior styling, growling exhaust note, quick acceleration times.
Cons Second-class interior switches, not as cargo-friendly as the competition, expensive pricing.