Bentley has unveiled the ‘X’ Concept, a rugged off-road interpretation based on its Bentayga Speed SUV. Revealed on February 3, 2026, the concept signals a potential new direction for the luxury marque, as company statements to Autocar UK indicate it was created to “stimulate and gain feedback.” Should it proceed to production, the ‘X’ Concept would mark Bentley’s entry into the increasingly popular segment of off-road-oriented luxury SUVs.
Performance and Chassis Enhancements
The ‘X’ Concept draws its powertrain from the Bentayga Speed, featuring the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 petrol engine that delivers 650 horsepower. This engine is paired with an all-wheel-drive system and retains the Speed’s active anti-roll bars and air suspension for dynamic control. However, the ‘X’ Concept incorporates several modifications designed to enhance its off-road capabilities:
- Ground clearance increased by 55mm, reaching a total of 310mm.
- Overall width expanded by 40mm, with the track widened by 120mm for improved stability.
- Water wading capacity elevated to 550mm.
- Equipped with bespoke 22-inch Brixton rims and high-profile all-terrain tires.
Exterior Design and Functional Elements
While maintaining the core silhouette of the Bentayga, the ‘X’ Concept differentiates itself with a series of aesthetic and functional changes tailored for robust environments. These include a higher ride height and specialized tires. Distinctive exterior features comprise:
- Integrated towing mounts on the front bumper.
- A unique design for its 22-inch wheels.
- Darkened trim on the lower half of the front bumper, wheel arches, side skirts, and rear splitter.
- A titanium sports exhaust system supplied by Akrapovic.
- A roof-mounted carrier outfitted with four spotlights, enhancing visibility in challenging conditions.
Competitive Debut and Market Trend
The ‘X’ Concept is scheduled to make its public debut in a competitive setting, participating in the upcoming FAT Ice Race in Salzburg, Austria. Acclaimed TV presenter Chris Harris will pilot the vehicle in the Skijöring event, towing Norwegian freestyle skier Hedvig Wessel. This move positions Bentley alongside other luxury automakers, such as Porsche with its first-generation Cayenne and 911 Dakar, and Lamborghini with the Huracan Sterrato, all of whom have introduced off-road-biased versions of their standard models, reflecting a growing industry trend towards more versatile performance vehicles.
