Bentley has officially announced details regarding the development of a new variant of its Bentley Bentayga SUV, expected to launch in 2028. The company is opting for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) configuration rather than a fully electric model, marking a notable shift from earlier all-electric intentions. The Bentayga currently accounts for nearly half of Bentley’s total sales, underscoring its importance to the brand.
Instead of making a rapid transition to electric-only models, Bentley aims to blend high performance with luxury while gradually advancing towards electrification.
Platform and Powertrain Details
The upcoming 2028 Bentayga will utilize the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), the same architecture that supports the Porsche Cayenne and the forthcoming Audi Q9. This platform is designed to accommodate both advanced petrol engines and the latest hybrid technology.
The new Bentayga is expected to offer a significantly improved electric-only driving range compared to the current model’s 48 km. A combination of a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine partnered with an electric motor is anticipated, similar to the current 462 hp system. For traditionalists, Bentley will still provide pure petrol options in select markets.
Design and Features Expectations
Details about the design remain closely guarded; however, early indications suggest that the new Bentayga may incorporate style elements from the EXP 15 concept and Bentley’s next electric SUV. Inside, buyers can expect significant technological enhancements, including a next-generation air suspension system with active ride control, upgraded safety systems, and an extended wheelbase variant for greater rear-seat comfort. These features aim to ensure the Bentayga maintains its status as a top contender in the luxury SUV market.
Bentley’s EV Strategy and Future Plans
Bentley’s broader electrification strategy is also evolving. The brand is postponing its all-electric ambitions, opting for plug-in hybrids as an interim solution, with a target for complete electrification by 2035. Bentley’s first fully electric SUV is set to debut in 2026, which will be a smaller model positioned below the Bentayga and aimed at a different market segment—specifically, luxury EV consumers who may not be interested in the flagship model.
This new direction for Bentley’s luxury SUVs suggests that the Bentayga will continue to be both relevant and potentially more appealing. Customers can expect to enjoy the hallmark power, style, and comfort associated with the Bentley brand, now augmented with improved efficiency and a more environmentally friendly profile, while retaining the core qualities that define the Bentayga.
