Testing New Ground
Bentley has been leaning into the performance space with the unveiling of the Continental GT Supersports and Continental GT S. That shift has now extended beyond paved roads with the unveiling of a new off-road concept dubbed the Bentayga ‘X.’
Bentley says the concept was deliberately designed to “stimulate feedback,” which could pave the way for the brand to produce more off-road-oriented vehicles. After all, the segment appears to be gaining momentum—even among luxury marques like Lamborghini with the Huracán Sterrato and Porsche with the 911 Dakar.
Reworking the Formula
Based on the performance-focused Bentayga Speed, the X Concept features rugged off-roading equipment and modifications not typically associated with Bentley. It rides on 22-inch forged single-piece wheels wrapped in off-road tires. Stability is further improved by a 120-mm (4.7-inch) wider track, while a 55-mm (2.2-inch) ride-height increase helps the SUV better clear rough terrain.
Power comes from a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the same VW Group engine family used in the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne. In this application, the concept produces 650 PS (641 horsepower), which is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Further enhancing the driving experience are the air suspension and the brand’s 48-volt electric active anti-roll control system.
Designed to Be Seen
Another off-road upgrade is the roof rack, which is fitted with four spotlights to enable nighttime driving when visibility is less than ideal. While features like a more rugged bumper or a snorkel are absent, the omissions feel deliberate, underscoring the concept’s exploratory nature. The company demonstrated the roof rack’s capabilities by mounting an electric Bambino-size go-kart used in the FAT Ice Race—a winter car festival often likened to Goodwood, but held on snow.
Speaking of which, Bentley, in partnership with FAT International, will showcase the X Concept alongside the Continental GT S and Continental GT Supersports at the FAT Ice Race in Big Sky, Montana, toward the end of February. The latter was previously pushed to its limits during a Gymkhana session with multi-time X Games gold medalist and motorsports driver Travis Pastrana. Taken together, these initiatives signal Bentley may be broadening its image—from one defined by effortless performance to a more expressive interpretation.
