The 2021 BMW X6 trades some of the X5’s utility for a fashion moment, but doesn’t miss a performance beat.
Pros Distinct shape Better look Impressive performance Available twin-turbo V-8 power
Cons Cramped rear head room Expensive Not as practical as an X5 Big rear blind spots
The 2021 X6 lineup adds some new standard features, drops some old ones, and gets revised option packages. The most notable new addition is Android Auto, which was previously not available and now comes standard. However, BMW eliminates previous options such as the acoustic glass, glass interior controls, rear-entertainment system, and night vision with pedestrian detection. The six-cylinder X6 now features a 48-volt hybrid system, and the V-8-powered version adds standard remote start and ventilated front seats.
Pros Smooth and speedy powertrains, athletic handling and refined ride quality, f ulfills luxury mission.
Cons Unintuitive infotainment interface, X5 has a bigger cargo area, V-8 upgrade requires a significant investment.
Minor changes to feature availability and option packages for 2021.
Pros Strong acceleration from both engines Comfortable and quiet ride High-quality interior
Cons Sloping roofline cuts down on cargo space Rear visibility is less than ideal Limited rear headroom
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
