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 Jaguar I-Pace is unchanged.
Pros Satisfying and immediate acceleration Enjoyable steering and handling Smooth ride quality
Cons Regenerative braking isn't strong, and friction brakes are too grabby Only one battery configuration available
The 2020 Jaguar I-Pace ranked #1 in Luxury Hybrid and Electric SUVs. Currently the Jaguar I-Pace has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 13 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Quiet, strong powertrain Thrilling handling and comfortable ride Good all-electric range Roomy and posh cabin
Cons Infotainment system responds slowly Driving range diminishes quickly under hard acceleration
If you’re still anticipating that the arrival of any new electric vehicle will undo a 15-year-old car company, it’s time to let go of that fantasy. The Tesla killer is a myth. A phantom. A four-wheeled Chupacabra. That’s true even as the 2019 Jaguar I-Pace—a $70,495 five-seat crossover with an estimated 240 miles of range—establishes itself as the most complete electric vehicle yet. A Tesla competitor? Absolutely. Will it suck the life out of Tesla sales? Not a chance.
Pros Equal parts speed and serenity, luxe fit and finish.
Cons Slow-acting touchscreens, incomplete public charging network.
