cars news 10: Triple-Charged Bentley Bentayga Diesel is Coming, but Not to the U.S.

Bentley has introduced a diesel version of its Bentayga SUV. While not as powerful as the gasoline model, the Bentayga Diesel promises plenty of low-rpm torque and a range of over 621 miles. And no, it’s not coming to the U.S.

The Bentley Bentayga Diesel receives a triple-charged 4.0-liter V-8 engine with 429 hp, well under the 600 hp offered by the 6.0-liter gasoline W-12. Torque remains at 664 lb-ft, but on the diesel model, starts at just 1,000 rpm. The engine comes paired with an eight-speed automatic. The Bentayga Diesel has the lowest C02 output of any model in the Bentley lineup at 210 g/km, the automaker says.

Bentley estimates a 0-60 run of 4.6 seconds, making the diesel quite a bit slower than the W-12 model which can do the deed in 4.0 seconds. But perhaps Bentley’s estimates are conservative, given that we’ve tested a Euro-spec Bentayga W-12 hitting 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Top speed on the Bentayga Diesel is 168 mph.

On the sheetmetal, the model receives a number of unique touches over the standard model. These include a V8 Diesel badge on the lower edge of the front door, a new tailpipe design, and a distinctive black matrix grille with chrome surround and central bar. Twenty-inch alloy wheels come standard, while new 21-inchers are optional.

The Bentayga Diesel will start rolling out to customers in Europe early next year. Following its European debut, the model will make its way to Russia, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and Taiwan later in the year. Bentley confirmed to us that the model won’t be offered in the Americas. We’re not surprised, given Volkswagen’s diesel scandal and how it has affected much of the company’s product strategy in the U.S.

Source: Bentley