The declining sales of sedans across segments prompted every automaker to focus on SUVs. This was true even for the high-end automakers like Rolls Royce, Lamborghini, and Bentley. Surprisingly, despite the high price tags, their respective SUVs – the Cullinan, Urus, and Bentayga – became the best-sellers for the brand soon after they hit the market.

Bentley launched the Bentayga as a 2016 model year it is arguably the most important product for the brand today. After selling more than 200,000 examples since its inception four years back, Bentley has finally refreshed the Bentayga for the 2021 model year. Does it get any better?

What’s Different On The Outside?

The British automaker said that every panel at the front is redesigned. Bentley has made use of a new ‘Matrix’ grille that sits more upright – 30 mm higher, to be precise - and is flanked by new cut-crystal design headlights. These LED matrix headlights lend out a sparkle even when not lit, those giving the Bentayga ‘a glowing face’. Even the hood is redesigned in a clamshell shape. New heated, wet-arm windscreen wipers with 22 washer jets in each arm are also introduced on this 2021 model.

The major change on the side profile comes in the form of new wheels. The 2021 Bentayga is offered with a new 22-inch wheel design and can be had in two different finishes. The rear receives a lot of changes. For starters, a new full-width tailgate can be seen here. Bentley has equipped it with 3D elliptical tail-lights with animated LEDs. The license plate is moved down to accommodate the ‘BENTLEY’ lettering above. The Bentayga also features larger, oval-shaped split sports tailpipes, mimicking the elliptical taillight design. The changes are wrapped up with a new, longer roof spoiler that adds to the character of the opulent SUV.

The rear has a wider track and the wheels are also repositioned in the arches. Two new colors make their debut this time – Viridian, a dark metallic green shade, and Patina, a mid-tone off-white color. You can also opt for a Blackline spec that replaces all the blingy chrome with black treatment.

What’s New On The Inside?

Things are quite different inside the cabin as well. Bentley has installed a new steering wheel and door trims. The digital instrument cluster feels modern and is complemented by a redesigned center console. The ‘bullseye’ air vents are now replaced by ‘sculptured single vent’ for renewed aesthetics. The center console also houses a new 10.9-inch touchscreen system. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Bentley has tweaked the seats as well and they offer more support now. They are re-upholstered with contrast stitching. This time around, the automaker is also offering dark tint diamond brushed aluminum finish trim as an option.

The other notable features include:

-* Wireless Charger

-* Head-Up Display

-* USB C-type Ports

-* 12-speaker Audio System

-* 20-speaker Sound System as Optional

No Changes Under The Hood

Bentley hasn’t made any changes under the hood. . Power is sent to all the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. It takes 4.4 seconds to sprint to 60 mph from a standstill and tops out at 180 mph.

The Bentayga Speed also continues to be offered with the same engine – a 6.0-liter, W-12 mill that makes 626 ponies and 664 pound-feet of twist. This engine, too, is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and an all-wheel-drive system. The Bentayga Speed takes 3.9 seconds to gallop to 60 mph before hitting a top speed of 190 mph. Bentley is also working on a V-6 plug-in hybrid mill that will be launched separately.

2021 Bentley Bentayga specifications

How Much Does It Cost?

You can expect a slight increase in the prices of the Bentayga. The present model starts at $171,000 for the V-8. This could touch $180,000 with all the changes made to the new model. The Bentayga Speed could be priced in the ballpark of $250,000.

Final Thoughts

The 2021 Bentayga features a lot of changes inside-out. The exterior upgrades certainly differentiate it from the current model. The cabin feels even more plush and luxurious. The seven-seat configuration is a nice addition. Even with the same engine under the hood, a slight power boost would’ve been welcome. Nevertheless, the Bentayga feels refreshed and should be good for another 3-4 years before the next-gen comes with bigger changes.