2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed: Smaller Engine, More Power, and the End of the W-12 Era

2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed: Smaller Engine, More Power, and the End of the W-12 Era

It’s been nearly a year since Bentley assembled its final W-12 engine, marking the end of over two decades of 12-cylinder dominance in the ultra-luxury segment. But the British marque isn’t mourning it’s moving forward. The new Bentayga Speed replaces the iconic 6.0-liter W-12 with a smaller, sharper 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, and Bentley claims it’s not just a substitute it’s an upgrade.

Despite the downsizing, the latest Bentayga Speed delivers 641 horsepower 15 hp more than the outgoing W-12 model though torque dips slightly to 627 lb-ft (850 Nm), down 37 lb-ft from the 12-cylinder’s peak.

It may not top the 700-hp club (home to the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, Ferrari Purosangue, Lamborghini Urus SE, Aston Martin DBX700, and Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat), but the Bentayga Speed more than holds its own especially when you consider the performance gains from shedding weight.

By ditching the bulky W-12, Bentley trimmed 95 pounds (43 kg) from the SUV’s curb weight. The new model now weighs 5,435 pounds (2,465 kg) a meaningful reduction that translates into sharper dynamics.

2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed: Smaller Engine, More Power, and the End of the W-12 Era

The result? A 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) sprint in just 3.4 seconds half a second quicker than the W-12 version. Top speed climbs to 193 mph (310 km/h), 3 mph faster than before, making it the fastest production Bentley ever.

Enhanced agility comes from standard rear-wheel steering, which improves both low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. Optional carbon-ceramic brakes are available but only when paired with the massive 23-inch Speed alloy wheels.

Bentley has refined the Sport driving mode for the new V8, increasing suspension damping stiffness by 15% compared to the Bentayga V8 S. Steering response has also been sharpened for a more connected, engaging feel.

2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed: Smaller Engine, More Power, and the End of the W-12 Era

And while the W-12 had a legendary growl, the new Speed doesn’t go quietly. It comes with a standard sports exhaust system, and for those craving a more aggressive bark, there’s an optional Akrapovič titanium exhaust with quad tailpipes a dramatic step up from the standard dual setup.

Exterior changes are refined but unmistakable:

• Dark-tinted headlights and taillights
• 23-inch Speed wheels (the only size available)
• Optional contrasting black roof in satin or gloss finish
• Quad exhaust tips with the Akrapovič upgrade

Inside, the cabin remains a masterpiece of luxury, but with a sportier edge:

• Chrome trim can be replaced with dark-finish accents
• Updated seat upholstery colors and quilted patterns
• Performance-focused design cues without sacrificing comfort

Even without the W-12, Bentley insists you’re not losing “an iota of what makes a Bentley, a Bentley.” The extra four cylinders were cut not for performance, but for compliance stricter emissions regulations have made large-displacement engines unsustainable.

Today, the Bentayga is the only non-hybrid model in Bentley’s lineup. All other variants have already transitioned to plug-in hybrid powertrains.

2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed: Smaller Engine, More Power, and the End of the W-12 Era

But change is coming fast. Bentley’s first fully electric vehicle is on the way an SUV smaller than the Bentayga signaling the true beginning of the brand’s electric era.

For now, the Bentayga Speed stands as the pinnacle of Bentley’s internal combustion legacy a final, high-performance salute to the V8, and a bold step into the future.

Read also: 2026 BMW M2 CS Revealed: More Power, Less Weight, Pure Rear-Wheel Drive Thrills