Yesterday the Bentley Bentayga set a new SUV record at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, in Colorado. The special Bentayga was driven by Rhys Millen, who completed the 12.42-mile course in just 10:49.9, almost nearly two minutes faster than the previous record.
“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,” stated 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.”
The Bentayga used in the race only had minimal modifications, like unique front seats, the rear seats were removed, and a roll cage and fire suppression system were installed. Pirelli tires and a production-specification Akrapovic sports exhaust were also added. Lastly it was finished off in a Radium Satin exterior color with an all-black chrome and carbon fiber body kit. Under the hood, the Bentayga used in the race had the exact same 600 horsepower W12 engine as the production version.
To celebrate the new record, Bentley has announced a new limited edition Bentayga. The Pikes Peak Bentayga is being created by Mulliner and only ten examples will be produced. On the outside, the Pikes Peak Bentayga can be painted in either a Beluga black paint or Radium, while it rides on 22” wheels in a bespoke two-tone finish of Beluga with Radium accents. The Black Specification is included, replacing all exterior chrome with gloss black components and adding a carbon fiber splitter, side skirts, diffuser and rear spoiler.
Inside the Pikes Peak Bentayga, the seats are wrapped in Beluga leather with key lime accents. Alcantara has also been added to the seats, doors, steering wheel and gear lever. A Pikes Peak logo has been added to the carbon fiber fascias and numbered Pikes Peak tread plates.
The Pikes Peak Bentayga will be available to order from August for customers in the US and Europe.
Source: Bentley
