by Bentley’s New Electric SUV
Bentley is preparing to expand its SUV lineup with a second high-riding model, which will occupy a position below the Bentayga. However, this time the formula is changing. Instead of another internal combustion engine model, the newcomer will be fully electric.
Earlier, there were reports about the name ‘Mayon’, which appeared in a trademark application in the European Union last year. However, the latest information indicates that the name ‘Barnato’ will be used; after all, it carries more heritage, honoring Le Mans winner and Bentley owner Woolf Barnato.
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Our spies have already captured well-camouflaged prototypes during winter testing, and we have gone even further, digitally decoding its design and exploring everything we know ahead of the expected debut.
More Stylish Than the Bentayga
Unlike the much-criticized Bentayga, the Barnato is more streamlined and partly draws inspiration from the brand’s futuristic EXP 15 concept.
At the front, the grille develops the familiar Bentley matrix grille theme into a closed interpretation that hints at the electrified powertrain. The headlights receive four separate lighting elements, accompanied by a horizontal daytime running light strip that cuts into the front fenders, while a wide lower grille aids cooling and aerodynamic efficiency.
From the side, it appears shorter and more athletic than the Bentayga, with pronounced muscular fenders and frameless windows adding a sporty character. A curved shoulder line emphasizes static dynamism, while at the rear, the SUV has slim, jewel-like LED taillights, and a Taycan-style rear diffuser profile improves airflow.
A Digital Interior
Inside, Bentley combines ancient craftsmanship with a very modern digital foundation. A curved OLED display takes center stage, flowing into the center console, echoing the layout seen in the latest Porsche Cayenne Electric. It runs on Android Automotive OS, supported by faster processors, advanced AI voice control, and access to downloadable apps. The system even has a built-in 3D digital model of the Barnato, allowing passengers to control various functions directly through the interface.
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Other features will include an OLED instrument panel with 3D overlays, augmented reality head-up display, and digital key functionality. The new three-spoke steering wheel has physical buttons and knurled scroll wheels, and we can expect seating configurations to include four- and five-seat layouts.
There is also interesting hardware borrowed from the VW Group arsenal. The multifunctional left-hand stalk, first seen on the Audi Q3, is paired with a right-hand stalk that also serves as the gear selector, similar to the setup in the Volkswagen ID.4. Despite this, the materials and finish leave no doubt about this model’s place in the hierarchy. It still feels unmistakably like a Bentley.
Platform and Powertrain
The Barnato is built on the VW Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, shared with the upcoming Cayenne Electric. The battery capacity is expected to reach 113 kWh, ensuring high performance and long-distance travel. Bentley claims that 100 miles (160 km) of range can be replenished in less than seven minutes.
Using the electrified Porsche as a benchmark, power levels could range from 402 hp to over 1140 hp in top variants. All models are likely to have all-wheel drive with two motors as standard, with the rear motor featuring direct oil cooling for heat management during sustained high-speed driving.
Competitors and Presentation
The Barnato is preparing for the upper segment of performance SUVs, entering direct competition with heavyweights such as the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Lotus Eletre, Lamborghini Urus, Aston Martin DBX, Ferrari Purosangue and Luce, as well as the flagship Range Rover SV. Serious company.
Porsche’s electrified offerings are expected to be the technical benchmark here, setting the pace in areas such as performance, software, and charging capabilities.
The arrival of the Bentley Barnato marks a strategic step for the brand into the world of electromobility, without abandoning its DNA of luxury and performance. The use of the advanced PPE platform and the focus on the digital driver and passenger experience show how traditional luxury car manufacturers are adapting to new technological challenges. The success of this model in a market saturated with powerful competitors will depend not only on technical specifications but also on Bentley’s ability to offer the same unsurpassed level of exclusivity and quality that customers expect from this name, but now in a new, electric guise.
