The uber controversial Bentley SUV has been given the GO by the company and will begin production in early 2016. Of course that seems forever from now – but taking into consideration that the EXP 9 F concept has been a development study by the company since its concept debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, it seems short term.
Bentley plans to make 3500 units per year with their SUV, which would make it the most exclusive SUV in the market. The british carmaker targets the upcoming SUV to appeal to its two most lucrative market – China and Russia. Bentley has been keeping busy to keep the brands momentum going, with current annual sales improving significantly due to the market in China.
With the new project, dubbed ‘Falcon’ – it should expand the brand’s outlook and performance; adding to their line-up to four with the Continental GT, Flying Spur and the Mulsanne. Bentley claims that their upcoming SUV would be priced competitively to the new Range Rover, which should be their direct rival. From there, we can expect the price to hover circa £100k or slightly more, with a few options fitted.
The heart will be powered by Bentley’s signature 6.0-litre W12 twin-turbo from the Continental GT, and also their new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. Simultaneously – there are also plans on a v6 plug-in hybrid for Project Falcon to adhere to environmental regulations. A four-seat set-up will come as standard – but over time with enough demand, we reckon Bentley will definitely open up to a 5-seat setup, or even a 7-seat option.
Will this be an amazing machine? Only time will tell. Despite many going against its rather vulgar design – Bentley seems to be enlightened with this new project. But even if it doesn’t catch on, it’ll probably be one of the most sought after vehicles. Does Lamborghini LM-002 come to mind?
