Volkswagen wasn’t the only automaker that set a Pikes Peak record last weekend. While the incredible I.D. R became the fastest electric vehicle to ever conquer the challenging circuit, the Bentley Bentayga claimed the production SUV record at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Driven by two-time champion Rhys Millen, the Bentayga completed the 12.42-mile course in just ten minutes and 49.9 seconds, beating the previous record by nearly two minutes and averaging 66.5 mph.
For an SUV weighing two tons, that’s an impressive achievement. Bentley attributes the Bentayga’s 600-hp W12 engine, adaptive air suspension, active electric 48V anti-roll control and carbon ceramic brakes for helping it achieve the record. What’s more impressive is that minimal modifications were made to the standard production Bentayga to comply with regulations. Racing seats were fitted, the rear seats were removed, and a roll cage and fire suppression system were installed. Pirelli tires, an Akrapovic exhaust, and an optional Styling Specification Kit available to customers, which comes with a carbon fiber front splitter, diffuser, side skirts, and rear spoiler, was also fitted.
Other than that, the Pikes Peak car is a standard production Bentayga, finished in Radium Satin paint. “This record proves the outstanding dynamic ability of the Bentayga – demonstrating again how Bentley Motors is the only automotive company in the world that can combine pinnacle luxury and breath-taking performance. Congratulations to all at Bentley Motorsport and to Rhys Millen and his team,” said Chris Craft, Bentley’s Board for Sales & Marketing. “What an incredible machine. To take a luxury SUV with minimal modifications and be able to drive up this course in under 11 minutes is a huge testament to the performance and level of engineering in the Bentayga,” said driver Rhys Millen.
“I had a great run – the car was planted all the way up and gave me the confidence I needed to push hard. I’m delighted to take the SUV record for Bentley and for everyone that’s been involved in this project.” To celebrate the record run, Bentley is launching a new limited-edition Pikes Peak Bentayga. Created by Bentley’s in-house bespoke and coachbuilding division Mulliner and limited to just ten examples, the exterior is finished either in deep Beluga black paint or striking Radium, and rides on 22-inch wheels in a bespoke two-tone finish of Beluga with Radium accents.
It also includes the Black Specification, which replaces all exterior chrome with gloss black components and adds a carbon fiber splitter, side skirts, diffuser and rear spoiler. A subtle Pikes Peak motif adorns the front fenders. Inside, the limited edition Bentayga mixes Key Lime accents with Beluga leather, with Alcantara inserts to the seats and doors. The steering wheel and gear lever are also trimmed in Alcantara, and the headlining is technical Eliade cloth. A Pikes Peak logo adorns the carbon fiber fascias, and numbered Pikes Peak treadplates complete the interior.
Under the hood, the Pikes Peak Bentayga features the same 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 delivering 600 hp and 663 lb-ft of torque as the standard version. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but US and European customers will be available to order the Pikes Peak Bentayga in August.
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