Now over a decade into production, Bentley’s inaugural SUV, the Bentayga, has never been thought of in the same class as off-roading stalwarts like the Land Cruiser or Bronco Raptor. After all, it exists as a more capable extension of the marque’s luxurious sedans and grand tourers.
Unveiled at Austria’s FAT Ice Race in Zell am See, the Bentayga X concept shows Bentley testing the waters (quite literally) of a rugged version of its SUV, and we’re totally here for it.
Building a Better Bentayga
Built on the Bentayga Speed foundation, the X Concept keeps that 641hp twin-turbo V8 but adds hardware so it can go off-pavement. Track width increases 120mm for stability, ride height goes up 55mm for suspension travel. The result: over 550mm of wading depth and just under 310mm (~12″) of ground clearance. It still trails the G-Class and Defender, but it’s a step beyond the standard Bentayga.
The Hardware Changes
The SUV’s Brixton-forged 22-inch wheels wear large aspect ratio off-road tires and the wheel arches extend outboard 40mm to accommodate the wider track. Meanwhile, roof-mounted storage and four spotlights give the vehicle some serious utility and look amazing in the process.
The core mechanicals carry over from before, like permanent four-wheel drive, eight-speed transmission, air suspension with 48V Bentley Dynamic Ride. You don’t get locking differentials or a low-range transfer case, but the Bentayga will benefit from its optimized geometry and rubber.
Reading the Room
This debut marks a multi-year partnership between Bentley and FAT International. The partnership aligns with Bentley’s push toward younger enthusiasts, following the Travis Pastrana Continental GT Supersports collaboration. The Bentayga’s been the brand’s bestseller since its 2015 launch and we hope to see the X concept’s features trickle down to the production level. If there’s demand for a version that delivers on off-road capability, Bentley could start appealing to buyers who find the standard model too polished.
Spec Sheet
Model: Bentayga X Concept (based on Bentayga Speed)
Engine: 4.0L twin-turbo V8
Power: 641 hp
Drivetrain: Permanent four-wheel drive, eight-speed transmission
Suspension: Air suspension with Bentley Dynamic Ride (48V electric active anti-roll)
Wheels: 22″ forged one-piece (Brixton)
Tires: Large aspect ratio off-road
Ground Clearance: ~12″
Pricing & Availability
Bentley hasn’t announced production plans or pricing for the X Concept, but the concept debuted at the FAT Ice Race in Zell am See, Austria, with Bentley’s multi-year partnership including appearances at the FAT Ice Race in Big Sky, Montana later this February and FAT Mankei in Austria later this year.
Recap
2026 Bentley Bentayga X Concept
Bentley just dropped the Bentayga X Concept at Austria’s FAT Ice Race—a legit off-road version of their luxury SUV that ditches the country club vibes for actual trail capability with wider tracks, lifted suspension, and proper off-road tires. It’s basically Bentley testing whether their clientele actually wants to get dirty.
