Spied - Bentley SUV with production body panels starts testing in the UK

Set to be the fastest SUV in the world.

Bentley have started road trials of their upcoming SUV with production body panels. A prototype was caught testing by Mr Richard Crossley of Autocar UK on the British roads recently.

Announced to go on sale in 2016, the Bentley SUV (which is yet to receive an official name) is touted to be the fastest SUV ever. The company is reported to offer the SUV with three engine options starting from a V8, a V8 plug-in hybrid and a range-topping W12. A V8 diesel is also believed to be under consideration. According to this report, Bentley engineers are targeting a top-speed of 200 mph (320 km/h).

The SUV will not look anything like the concept EXP-9F showcased at the 2012 edition of the Geneva Motor Show. Even Bentley acknowledge that the concept's design was not appreciated among their discerning buyers. As a result, the SUV is being restyled completely by Luc Donckerwolke, an ex-Lamborghini designer.

When it launches in 2016, the Bentley SUV is expected to cost more than 140,000 pounds (INR 1.44 crores). Bentley could consider launching the SUV in India keeping in mind that high-end luxury SUVs are sought after by entrepreneurs and celebrities.

Competitors: Range Rover L

Expected Price: 140,000 pounds (INR 1.44 crores), ex-Showroom

Launch Date: 2016 in Europe

[Images from Autocar UK]