2023 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid

To compete with the likes of Rolls-Royce is no easy thing, and Bentley has done it for ages; but whereas Rolls-Royce has seemingly gone all in with its strategy to move to electrification right away, Bentley is taking a more considered approach. Enter the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid. The respected British marque launched the hybrid SUV in 2019, and judging by the fact that the 2023 Bentayga Hybrid lineup has grown from one model to four, it's doing something right.

A 3.0-liter V6 engine does duty, paired with an electric motor for combined outputs of 456 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, which is enough to get the Bentayga Hybrid to 60 mph in just over five seconds. These outputs are on par with the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, but the German SUV gets up to speed a lot quicker. It also starts at an MSRP that's half of what the Bentayga Hybrid asks for. There aren't currently other ultra-luxury competitors to the Bentley Bentayga PHEV, so it's likely that those shopping under the Flying B banner have already decided to buy one - and there aren't all that many reasons, barring a hefty price tag, to dissuade them.

The brief on any Bentley is to ensure the ride is smooth and isolating, with nothing disturbing the occupants. The suspension on the Bentayga Hybrid is tuned to this effect, absorbing any imperfections and preventing bumps and vibrations from getting into the cabin. Air suspension with continuous damping control is standard across the range to ensure comfort.

It may not look as good as others in the segment, but it's near unbeatable for ride comfort. As for the drive, despite being large and bulky (nearing 6,000 pounds in curb weight), the Bentayga Hybrid is easy to maneuver, even in closer quarters, thanks to light steering. In line with the leisurely, relaxed aim of the Bentayga, there's not much feedback to excite you, despite having enough punch to get up to speed eagerly. On open roads, the Bentayga Hybrid is a missile that you can steer without a fuss, and it'll push on without any complaints. It feels confident and planted through the bends, though we wouldn't push it too hard when doing so.

A car such as this is as niche as it gets; it's already sold at an eye-watering price with only the minority considering an SUV with a hybrid powertrain in this price range. Those who want to focus on fuel economy will find more frugal SUVs elsewhere, so it's only if you're after the combination of status, luxury, comfort - all powered by a hybrid setup - that you'll even be shopping in this segment. This is a car you buy because you can, not because it's the most logical decision; there are no Bentayga Hybrid safety reviews to underscore your purchasing decision, but you will net yourself an ultra-luxury cruiser for your family with presence and prestige that the likes of German rivals just can't match. Secondary to that is the strong performance from the hybrid powertrain, the competent drive and handling, and the extensive shopping list of available features you can add. If the price tag doesn't scare you, you won't be sorry for buying one.