Bentley Bentayga Hybrid: when eco becomes chic

• This Bentley Bentayga is the automaker's first true plug-in hybrid.
• The special "E Motor" is the heart of the new Bentayga powertrain.
• Scheduled to arrive in the United States in the first quarter of 2020.

Bentley took its five-seater Bentayga SUV and made a hybrid version. Of course, this may seem counterproductive given the size (huge) and weight (huge as well), but it makes sense in several ways. I know how a ride like the 2020 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid can make sense? Well, first of all, in addition to being environmentally conscious, it's also very trendy these days. And let's face it: you're not going to buy a Bentayga to haul 500 pounds. manure to the farm, now you?

No you don't.

Bentley Bentayga Hybrid: Perception is reality

The Bentley Bentaygas is all about style, comfort and the perception of ability, if not immediate ability. The Bentayga is all about looking good and feeling good when you pull up to the club or your Pilates class or your stockbroker's office. And since good looks and well-being now include environmental concerns, it makes sense to get a Bentayga Hybrid.

Bentley's catchphrase for the Bentayga Hybrid is "Serenity Through Technology" and I'm willing to bet Buddha, wherever he is, had to laugh at that. The lack of a standard Swarovski-encrusted cloth dispenser will likely hurt the peace of mind of some buyers, but probably not many. Because, apart from that, he lacks a precious little. Like the Continental GT, the Bentayga Hybrid strives to look and feel great and great.

E Motor Design

Propulsion comes from Bentley's new E engine, which acts as both an electric motor and a power generator. The entire deal is tied to a new 3.0-liter turbo V6. The combined system creates a hefty 516 lb-ft. torque. This motor is a permanent magnet synchronous system producing 94 kW peak power and 295 lb-ft. torque itself.

Bentley says everything is designed to deliver instant torque and eliminate turbo lag. It's hard to argue with them. Add it all up and you have a 0 to 60 time of 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 158 mph. If you want to go faster, my friend, then this Bentley Bentayga is what you need.

Bentley Bentayga Hybrid. By 2023, Bentley expects to have an electrified version of everything they offer. Photo: Bentley Motors.

Riding modes and overall range

The Bentayga Hybrid has three drive modes, with EV Drive running on battery power only. In hybrid mode, the Bentayga uses information from the navigation system to optimize battery and engine power for maximum efficiency and range. In the hold mode, the motor and electric power are more balanced, but in such a way that the electric range can be used later. For example, let's say you drive on the highway at higher speeds and then return to the city where you can use the battery power again. Bentley says hold mode is designed for situations like this.

Regardless of the mode, regenerative braking always occurs.