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 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser is unchanged.The 2018 Land Cruiser comes fully loaded apart from a rear-seat entertainment system. It's likely something you can skip if you use tablets and other devices to keep your family entertained.
PROS One of the most off-road-capable SUVs around Surprisingly comfortable ride and capable handling for a big SUV Commanding view of the road ahead
CONS A Toyota badge at a price that matches luxury marques Poor fuel economy Second- and third-row seats lack space and versatility
The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser is a conundrum: it’s way better on-road than its off-road credentials suggest it should be, but that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone.
Pros Proper off-road cred Great ride quality Decadent interior Dripping with personality and heritage Strong V-8
Cons Ponderous steering Ghastly expensive The Lexus LX 570 exists, too Miserable fuel economy Do you really need all those off-road toys?
The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser ranked #3 in Luxury Large SUVs. Currently the Toyota Land Cruiser has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 55 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent off-roader Plenty of standard features Comfortable cabin
Cons Poor gas mileage Occasionally unresponsive touch screen
