Haute Auto: Bentley Unveils EXP 9 F 4×4

Images: Bentley

Luxury automaker Bentley has revealed its first 4×4 vehicle boasting a top speed of 185mph and a price tag of £140,000. A prototype of the Bentley EXP 9 F is one of the stars at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, happening now.

The new Bentley EXP 9 F comes on the heels of rival luxury automakers Range Rover and Porsche Cayenne release of 4×4 vehicles. The new Bentley will be available for purchase in 2015 for around £140,000 and is said to have a top speed of 185mph.

Crewe-based Bentley, owned by Volkswagen since 1998, has been producing luxury vehicles for almost 100 years and finally they have produced a larger version of their incredibly exclusive cars. Initial production of the EXP 9 F will be around 3,500 a year and the U.S., China and Germany will be the key markets outside of the U.K. The company is hoping the off-road vehicle will be hit amongst Premiership footballers and even the Royal Family (who have a bespoke collection of Bentleys already).

The new model features a twin-turbo six-liter W12 engine, an eight-speed transmission, the ability to go from 0-60mph in less than five seconds, a diamond-quilted soft-touch leather interior, an armrest divider on the rear seat with a cooled compartment for champagne glasses, “business mode” options in the rear seats with a fold-down keyboard and full internet connection, drinks tables, entertainment and information screens, bespoke picnic hampers stowed in the rear of the vehicle and a split tailgate covered in saddle leather that can be used as a bench or a picnic table.

Bentley has also indicated that a cheaper four-liter V8 or a more eco-friendly hybrid engine could eventually power the vehicle as well. There is also talk of a new furniture line created for customers who wish to have their home match their car.

The production version of the EXP 9 F will be the third model in the Bentley collection, along with the Mulsanne and the Continental models.

Source: Daily Mail