Bentley is expanding its luxury SUV lineup with a second high-riding model, the Barnato. Unlike its combustion-engine sibling, the Bentayga, this new vehicle will be fully electric, marking a significant shift for the British automaker. The Barnato takes its name from Woolf Barnato, a Bentley owner and Le Mans winner, honoring the brand’s racing heritage.
Sleeker Design, Modern Cabin
The Barnato distinguishes itself from the Bentayga with a more streamlined design, drawing inspiration from Bentley’s futuristic EXP 15 concept. Key exterior features include a closed-off front grille hinting at the electric powertrain, distinctive four-element headlights, and a horizontal DRL strip integrated into the front fenders. The SUV’s profile is shorter and more athletic, boasting muscular haunches and frameless windows for a sportier look. At the rear, slim LED taillights and a Taycan-style diffuser enhance aerodynamics.
Inside, Bentley blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. A curved OLED display dominates the interior, echoing the Porsche Cayenne Electric’s layout. The system runs on Android Automotive OS, offering faster processing, improved AI voice control, and downloadable apps. A unique feature is a 3D digital model of the vehicle embedded in the interface, allowing occupants to manage functions directly. The cabin also includes an OLED instrument cluster with 3D overlays, an augmented-reality head-up display, and digital key functionality.
Shared Technology, Premium Feel
The Barnato rides on the Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, shared with the upcoming Porsche Cayenne Electric. Battery capacity is expected to reach 113 kWh, providing a substantial range. Bentley claims rapid charging capabilities, with the ability to recover 100 miles (160 km) of range in under seven minutes.
Power levels are projected to range from 402 hp to over 1140 hp in top-tier variants, all with dual-motor all-wheel drive and rear motor oil cooling for sustained performance. The SUV incorporates hardware from the wider VW Group, including a multi-function stalk from the Audi Q3 and a transmission selector similar to the Volkswagen ID.4. Despite these shared components, Bentley assures a premium finish and unmistakable brand identity.
Competition and Market Position
The Barnato is positioned to compete with high-performance luxury SUVs, including the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Lotus Eletre, Lamborghini Urus, Aston Martin DBX, Ferrari Purosangue, and Range Rover SV. Bentley will leverage Porsche’s electric technology to set benchmarks in performance, software, and charging capabilities.
The Barnato represents Bentley’s commitment to electrification while maintaining its legacy of luxury and performance. This SUV is designed to stand out in a crowded market, offering both cutting-edge technology and the timeless craftsmanship expected from the brand.
