Bentley Bentayga Atelier Edition: A Refined Luxury SUV

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Bentley’s Bentayga has evolved with the times, blending heritage with modern luxury, and the Atelier Edition exemplifies this balance. Priced at £197,700, this version leans into understated elegance rather than overt sportiness.

Subtle Sophistication

The Atelier Edition distinguishes itself through refined details: a dual-layer chrome and satin-silver grille, unique badges, and 22-inch satin-finish alloy wheels. The exterior color options, including the striking ‘Light Emerald’ featured here, are curated from Bentley’s exclusive Mulliner range, though custom specifications are welcome.

Interior Luxury and Craftsmanship

Inside, the Atelier Edition prioritizes traditional luxury. Immaculate diamond-stitched leather, contrasting piping, and larger diamond patterns on the seatbacks create a sumptuous cabin. Unique touches include an animated welcome light sequence and ‘Hand Crafted in Crewe, England’ sill plates. The optional open-pore Hawaiian Koa wood veneer adds a layer of timeless craftsmanship, a detail often lost in glossy finishes.

The cabin retains some familiar Volkswagen Group switchgear, but the overall fit and finish remain exceptionally high-quality. The available Naim Audio sound system delivers a best-in-class listening experience. Rear seats offer generous space and comfort, maintaining the same immaculate standards as the front.

Driving Dynamics and Performance

The driving experience mirrors that of other Bentayga models, especially when equipped with optional extras. Standard features like Bentley Dynamic Ride (a 48-volt anti-roll system) and four-wheel steering enhance stability and maneuverability. While not as effortlessly smooth as a Rolls-Royce Cullinan or BMW X7 at low speeds, the Bentayga provides excellent overall refinement.

The 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivers seamless performance: 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds. Its sound is well-balanced, providing a satisfying rumble under acceleration while remaining quiet at cruising speeds. A hybrid powertrain is available, but the V8 remains the preferred choice for many.

Competition and Alternatives

At this price point, the Bentayga faces strong competition. The Lamborghini Urus, while faster, lacks the Bentayga’s refinement. The Ferrari Purosangue offers a compelling blend of performance and comfort with its V12 engine. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan represents a step up in luxury but comes at a significantly higher price (£350,000+).

In conclusion, the Bentley Bentayga Atelier Edition delivers a tasteful, luxurious SUV experience. It strikes a delicate balance between modern refinement and classic Bentley craftsmanship, making it a compelling choice for those seeking understated elegance in the high-end SUV market.

Specifications:
Price: £197,700
Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8
Power/Torque: 542bhp/770Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed auto, four-wheel drive
0-62mph: 4.5 seconds
Top Speed: 180mph
Economy: 21.7mpg
CO2: 296g/km
Dimensions: 5,144/1,998/1,728mm