A luxury performance off-road SUV – from Bentley.
The market for ultra-luxury SUVs is somewhat limited. The most expensive and luxurious models offered would likely be from Porsche, Range Rover, or Mercedes-Benz. Well, there’s a new prospect that’s looking to trump everyone with quite possibly the most luxurious production SUV on the planet – the Bentley EXP 9 F Concept.
The new Bentley SUV is big, bold, and luxurious, and breaks new ground for the British automaker. While no production plans have been announced, it could be the third model in the Bentley lineup and create a new niche in the SUV market.
The design of the new EXP 9 F Concept is bold, muscular, and clean. Traditional aspects such as the Bentley matrix grille are worn by the concept, along with round headlamps, oval tailpipes, and muscular fenders. The exterior design is also functional, with the LED light housings acting as intake vents to cool the W-12 engine. New, 23-inch wheels were chosen for their resemblance of fan blades and reference to turn-of-the-century Bentley Le Mans racecars. The rear was given clean, rectangular taillight housings with red lamps that mimic the details of fighter jets.
The interior of the EXP 9 F Concept is distinctively Bentley. “The challenge for the interior design team was to create a cabin which provides a blend of luxury and utility,” said Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design. “The result is a light and airy environment with a commanding view of the road and a versatile layout which showcases Bentley’s craft and design language in an innovative and contemporary way.”
Handcrafted wood, leather, and metal trims are featured throughout the Bentley SUV. The entire dashboard is made from a single piece of wood veneer and features classic “bulls eye” vents. A light and airy atmosphere was achieved through the use of a flowing roof design with panoramic glass. Utility was also an important aspect of the interior design. The Bentley EXP 9 F utilizes durable materials, offers dual-use floor mats, and a functional rear seat setup. The two rear seats can be used for entertainment with fold-down keyboards, internet connectivity, reclining seats, infotainment screen, and drink table.
Each of the rear seats can be folded down allowing for greater utility in the EXP 9 F Concept. The two-piece tailgate can be used as seating or as a picnic bench and comes standard with two umbrellas and an awning.
The latest technology is utilized in the new Bentley SUV. Designers were able to create a perfect balance between modern infotainment and traditional analog instruments. Facing the driver is a centrally mounted TFT panel to prevent distraction. The entertainment and controls are situated at the front of the center console and can be used by either driver or passenger. The center console also houses the driving selector switch that can change the SUV’s dynamics between Comfort, Sport, and Off-Road.
The Bentley EXP 9 F Concept was shown with the 6.0-liter, twin-turbocharged W-12 engine. The engine is capable of producing 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft. of torque. Power is sent through an eight-speed transmission to all four wheels for superb control and performance. The other 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V-8 engine and other future hybrid powertrains will also be available if the SUV makes it to production.
There are currently no plans to build the Bentley EXP 9 F Concept. The Bentley SUV was built as an exploration into a new ultra-luxury Sport Utility Vehicle market. Public and customer reaction to the new Concept SUV will be analyzed by Bentley before any decision is made.
Bentley EXP 9 F Concept Gallery
[Source: Bentley]
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