As consumer wants and needs change, so do the automakers. Though it may have seemed ridiculous for Porsche to build a sport-utility vehicle, it turns out to be the brand's best selling product. By a mile. Now the company is on its way to building a second SUV to star in its portfolio.
Maserati is up next. And not to be trumped, Bentley is well on its way to building its very first SUV.
Of course I don't believe any other player has built an SUV in its estimated price bracket. As you'll note in the company's teaser clip of the yet-to-be-named SUV, it sports a lot of the same design traits of the new Flying Spur. Not the integrated "B" in the front fender, overall grille shape and headlight design.
That being said, I believe it will probably price in between the Flying Spur and Bentley's flagship, the Mulsanne.
What makes this all-new video clip particularly interesting is that the company-issued press release confirms that a plug-in hybrid WILL be available. Considering Bentley has yet to build a hybrid outside of concept form, this is a big first step towards a real green initiative.
**Watch Bentley's clip below!
Bentley's press release follows:
THE BENTLEY SUV: THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME
Exclusive footage of world's most powerful and luxurious SUV
View the latest film at www.NewBentley.com
(Crewe, England. 27 May 2014) The countdown to the arrival of the Bentley SUV has begun. Bentley's craftsmen, designers and engineers are now completely dedicated to creating the world's most powerful and luxurious SUV and are setting new standards in bespoke craftsmanship and performance.
A new film just released by Bentley – offering a rare glimpse of the company's design approach – shows how the exterior of this remarkable new car is taking shape. Sculpted, contemporary and distinctive design is being combined with the exquisite and meticulous detailing for which Bentley is renowned.
The Bentley SUV will go into production in 2016 with a range of engines – including a plug-in hybrid option for 2017 – being offered to customers. For regular updates and further news on the Bentley SUV please join us at www.NewBentley.com