During our recent test drive of the Bentley Bentayga Diesel we had a chance to catch up with Mr Wolfgang Durheimer – CEO of Bentley and Bugatti. The Bentayga presents a significant success and a great addition to the Bentley line-up but with both the Continental GT and Flying Spur running towards the end of their model cycle Bentley is keen to add one more model to their line-up.
This completely new model will unlock a new segment for Bentley aiming to attract new and younger buyers as well as customers from other luxury brands like Aston Martin. Price-wise it will fit within the existing Bentley price range. This new model is currently in the design phase and a decision about production will be made in the middle of next year. The final go for the project has to come from the Volkswagen Group in Wolfsburg who will provide (part of) the necessary investment.
The decision to produce a fourth model in Crewe will also include plans to expand the current facilities with a new state-of-the-art production center next to the recently opened R&D center. Along with this Bentley aims to develop a unique Bentley campus for R&D, design, engineering and production.
At this stage the Bentley CEO did not comment on what the new model would be exactly. But listening carefully and looking back at what Bentley has shown – or teased if you will – the last few years we are confident it will be a sporty two-seater inspired by the EXP 10 Speed 6 Concept that can rival the likes of the Aston Martin DB11.
The Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 was initially presented at the Geneva Motor Show 2015 and impressed globally with a stunning sporty design and beautiful handcrafted interior that combines high quality leather with wood and aluminium. If Wolfsburg gives Bentley the green light we can expect the new model on the road by 2020.
