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 Porsche Macan comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual.More powerful turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine for S models.New interior design incorporating a 10.9-inch touchscreen.Redesigned front and rear fascias, including headlights and taillights.More natural voice recognition software.
Pros Quick acceleration regardless of engine choice Most athletic and engaging SUV in the class Surprisingly comfortable and composed ride Easy to customize thanks to a long list of individual options
Cons Less rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity than many competitors Options and packages can add up quickly
The Macan is updated for 2019 and features refreshed exterior styling that includes updated front and rear bumpers, new taillamps that span the width of the liftgate, and new wheel designs. The base 2019 Porsche Macan receives a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and the high-performance S model comes with a 348-hp turbo V-6; the GTS and Turbo models have yet to be revealed for 2019, but will almost certainly pack more punch than the S when they eventually return. The suspension is retuned this year as well, although the Macan already was the one of the best handling crossovers of 2018. The Macan also sees a few interior changes, the most notable one being the new, larger 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and standard 4G LTE onboard Wi-Fi feature.
Pros As quick as some Boxsters, curvy exterior, exceptional poise on the road.
Cons Low-rent interior, cramped rear seat, small cargo hold.
The 2019 Porsche Macan ranked #1 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Porsche Macan has a score of 9.2 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 36 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Dynamic handling Premium cabin Intuitive infotainment system Class-leading predicted reliability rating
Cons Small cargo hold Tight rear seats
The first big revamp of Porsche's Macan range has arrived. Is it 'almost new-generation' as its maker claims or closer to the facelift it appears to be? Let's find out in the newish V6-powered S version.
Pros Smarter Cayenne-like look Excellent high-def’ infotainment Superb all-round drivability Excellent driver-centric dynamics
Cons The new single-turbo V6 is uninspiring in character Old Porsche cabin design Average three-year warranty: AEB costs extra
