2023 Bentley Bentayga S, Azure Hybrids Bow with bigger battery

During my first drive of the Powered by the V8 Bentayga EWB, I wondered what was next for the plug-in hybrid variant of Bentley’s luxury SUV. I need wonder no more after this morning’s announcement of new Bentayga S Hybrid and Azure Hybrid models joining the range.

Bentayga S Hybrid

A new 18-kilowatt-hour battery (slightly larger than the 17.3-kWh unit in the standard Bentayga Hybrid) is at the heart of the S Hybrid’s performance improvements. With a larger reserve to draw on, the electric motor has been increased to 100 kilowatts (from 94 kW) or around 134 horsepower. Combined with the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, the Bentayga S Hybrid produces a total of 456 hp. – 13 ponies more than the base hybrid.

The S Hybrid will sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.3 seconds, almost identical to the non-S spec, which kind of makes sense given the modest hp increase. and possibly the heavier battery. The hybrid’s top speed is also unchanged at 158 ​​mph, and – although Bentley’s release didn’t specify – it’s probably a safe bet that EV mode’s top speed of 84 mph also carries over.

With a lighter right foot, the larger battery should result in improved EV range. Bentley aims for 27 miles of silent operation on a full charge before the internal combustion engine kicks in to extend the S Hybrid’s range. Acceleration should also feel more responsive in EV mode, thanks to the electric motor providing about 15 percent more torque (295 pound-feet).

Like the Bentayga S V8, the S Hybrid gets a complement of handling upgrades, including a 15% increase in damper stiffness in Sport mode and a retuning of its stability control to allow for a bit more dynamic fun before the electronic nannies intervene. There’s even a sports exhaust that adds some aural engagement at speed and can be adjusted to create different effects for front and rear seat passengers.

Visually, the S Hybrid features Blackline exterior trim, unique 22-inch wheels, a Bentayga Speed-inspired rear spoiler and front bumper, and red-painted brake calipers. Inside, performance dials adorn the digital instrument cluster, and “S” badging can be found throughout the cabin.

Bentayga Azure Hybrid

At the opposite end of the comfort-performance spectrum is the Bentayga Azure Hybrid. This more luxurious, wellness-focused spec matches many of the new amenities that debuted on the Bentayga EWB Azure with the plug-in hybrid drivetrain. The Azure Hybrid also features the new, larger 18-kWh battery and should boast the same 27-mile EV range.

The standard Bentayga Hybrid is already quiet, especially in EV mode, but the Azure steps up with improvements to active and passive sound cancellation that reduce cabin noise by up to 26% depending on frequency and seating position. The Azure model also features a smoother, more supple ride with hardware-tuned suspension that is claimed to pass 27% less vibration and harshness to passengers than its rivals.

The class-specific comfort front seats feature 22-way adjustment and heating and ventilation. Bentley has also delved deep into the science of what it calls “well-being behind the wheel,” using neuroscience research to design the Azure Hybrid’s cabin. In short, passengers are treated to much nicer materials, patterns and colors than the already luxurious standard Bentayga, and that makes them feel good. From the diamond quilted leather upholstery with 15 leather colors to choose from, to the myriad of wood veneer options, including three new options with open pore, contrast stitching and mood lighting, the Azure Hybrid promises to be a feast for the senses.

Further enhancing well-being through safety is the Touring specification, which includes driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and low-speed (below 37 mph) enhanced traffic jam assist.

Available to order

The Bentayga S Hybrid or Azure Hybrid are now available to order in most markets. Pricing hasn’t been announced for either spec, but both are sure to be more expensive than the six-figure base price of the standard Bentayga Hybrid. With custom luxury vehicles like these, the price can vary greatly depending on the paint, trim, bells and whistles. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is really only a suggestion at this level.

With the arrival of the Bentayga S Hybrid and Azure Hybrid, Bentley is moving closer to its goal of offering hybrid powertrains for every model in its lineup by 2025. 2025 is also when we can expect Bentley’s first battery-electric model to arrive. which begins the British carmaker’s transition to an all-electric range by 2030.