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 Lexus LX 570 disguises its truck-based roots well with brash lines balanced by a calming interior, but be prepared for prodigious thirst.
Pros Bold sytle Plush confines Healthy V-8 power Comfy ride Off-road capable
Cons Bold style Drinks so much fuel Outdated controls Cramped third row Frustrating infotainment
Lexus's largest SUV rolls into 2021 with a few changes. A new Sport package is available on the three-row model, which adds unique exterior styling, 21-inch wheels, and either an Eminent White Pearl, Black Onyx, or Atomic Silver paint job. Also available on the three-row model is the Inspiration Series #2 package, which blacks out most of the LX's exterior trim and adds 21-inch black wheels, smoked lenses for the exterior lighting elements, black badging, and Rioja Red semi-aniline leather upholstery.
Pros Legit off-roading chops, posh interior, plenty of space for people and cargo.
Cons Fuel efficient it is not, trucky on-road driving demeanor, steep entry price.
Limited-production LX Inspiration Series.Updated LX Sport package.Amazon Alexa compatibility.
PROS Exceptional off-road capability for a luxury SUV Beautifully crafted cabin
CONS Second and third rows lack space and versatility Tech interface is distracting and not intuitive Poor fuel economy, even for a luxury SUV
