Facelifted 2021 Bentley Bentayga Adds Refinement, Tech And Continental GT Taillights

Bentley has further refined the Bentayga super luxury SUV for its mid-cycle update and there’s a lot to talk about, especially in the styling department.

While the front end looks more or less the same, there’s a big surprise at the rear where Bentley has added oval-shaped LED taillights that look very similar to those on the Continental GT.

That’s because designers wanted the Bentayga to be more in line with the brand’s new styling language introduced by the third-generation Continental GT and all-new Flying Spur saloon.

You may not realize, but every panel at the front of the Bentayga has been redesigned for a cleaner, modern look. The assertive matrix grille is larger and more upright, while the new intelligent LED matrix headlamp technology includes the signature Bentley design inspired by cut crystal glassware. The front bumper is more aggressive as well, while heated windscreen wipers with 22 washer jets in each arm are introduced for the first time.

Seen from the side, the new wheels featuring a design unique to Bentayga are the most noticeable update. The biggest transformation takes place at the back, where the facelifted luxury SUV brings a total redesign including a new full-width tailgate with new encapsulated lamps.

The license plate has been moved down into the bumper for a cleaner appearance, while the oval, split tailpipes echo the shape of the taillights. Interestingly, the rear track has grown by 20 mm (0.8 in), allowing the repositioning of the wheels in the arches for improved stance and dynamics.

There are significant changes inside too, with highlights including the new center console housing a 10.9-inch infotainment screen with edge-to-edge graphics, new steering wheel sourced from the Continental GT and Flying Spur, new door trims, and all-new seats. About that, the rear seats are now available with ventilation in five-seat configuration.

Bentley says that rear passengers also enjoy significantly more space, with legroom increased by up to 100 mm (3.9 in) depending on configuration. The automaker does not say how it achieved that, though.

Arguably the most significant interior update is the next-generation infotainment system operated via an all-digital 10.9-inch touchscreen display with “super high resolution” and dynamic graphics. The system incorporates all-new navigation with satellite maps, online search and other features, as well as standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Rear seat passengers also get a new, larger touchscreen remote control tablet, similar to the one introduced in the all-new Flying Spur. USB-C data ports and a wireless phone charger are now standard too, as is an embedded SIM powering My Bentley in-car and remote services.

As for the interior appearance, the cabin can be made even more luxurious with the application of dark tint diamond brushed aluminum trim for the first time in a Bentley, as well as two straight-grained veneers new to Bentayga: Koa and Crown Cut Walnut. The Mulliner Driving Specification adds a new quilting design, while micro piping detailing is a new option for the seats.

The engine lineup will remain unchanged, with the 2021 model initially launching in Bentayga V8 guise. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine will continue to make 542 HP (550 PS) and 568 lb-ft (770 Nm) hooked to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and standard AWD.

Later on, Bentley will add the Bentayga Hybrid PHEV and the 6.0-liter W12-powered Bentayga Speed able to reach 190 mph (305 km/h).