Should you buy one?

With the Bentayga EWB, Bentley has really tried to amplify the luxury limousine aspects of the relatively new-fangled luxury SUV sector – and has largely succeeded. The clever Airline Seat option takes long-distance comfort to a higher level, while the powered rear doors and other natty indulgences exude effortless prestige.

Compared with a Rolls-Royce Cullinan or the latest Range Rover, the Extended Wheel Base Bentayga remains a better choice if you want to drive yourself as well. And if that comes at the cost of some small amount of ultimate suspension comfort it’s so minor it hardly seems likely to become a deal-breaker. Especially given Bentley’s continuing commitment to building truly bespoke cars, should the client demand it. All of which makes this model a considerably well-rounded choice, for those who can afford it.

The slightly old-school interior won’t appeal to every potential customer. If you’re looking for overt techno-modernity, with acres of screens and clear-sighted eco credentials, no Bentayga will be for you. To this end, it does feel a touch out of step with the times. Bentley will begin to resolve this come 2025, when it plans to launch a new electric model every year for the next five.

What we like

Massive performance, huge luxury – not just from the Airline Seat but also the awesome Naim hi-fi, the power-closing rear doors and the general sense of superb, highly personalised construction. A lovely thing to order and to own, no doubt.

What we don’t like

Rear-wheel steering requires occasional correction, some road noise in the cabin. Limited feet-up legroom when fully reclined. All minor quibbles, all circumventable. Unlike the sense of environmental regret you might get every time you put your foot down.

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