Bentley EXP 9F luxury

The AWD SUV concept reveals the potential for a third Bentley model to sit alongside the Continental and Mulsanne ranges. The Bentley EXP 9F concept unveiled at Geneva today previews the British brand's all-new SUV. Although a production version of soft-roader has yet to be confirmed it is believed the decision has already been made to add the model to Bentley's line-up regardless how the public react to the concept.Powered by a 6.0-liter bi-turbo 12-cylinder engine with an eight-speed auto, Bentley says the EXP 9F could develop as much as 599hp and 590lb-ft of torque.Without providing any specific performance figures for the AWD SUV, Bentley claim the production model would achieve benchmarks for the century sprint and top speed. The recently released 4.0-liter V8 and hybrid drivetrain are also under consideration.In terms of its design, the matrix grille and round lamps clearly identify the SUV as a Bentley, while designers were also inspired by 'visible engineering' of the famous Blower Bentleys. An example of this is the day-time running lamp apertures that also act as the twin-turbo W12 engine's charge cooler air intakes, each boasting a mesh-covered turbine fan design.This turbine theme continues with the 23-inch alloys that in turn complement the sculptured coachwork. At the rear, twin exhaust tailpipes with 'rifled' inner surfaces are elliptically shaped mirroring the rear light clusters.As you'd expect of a Bentley the cabin screams of opulence, with a one-piece wood veneer main dash, diamond-quilted leather upholstery and polished metals, including aluminum, bronze and gunmetal.Reversible floor mats - silk wool on one side, durable rubbed saddle leather on the other - and a panoramic glass roof, are other notable highlights. At the rear, a split tailgate design features a lower section that doubles up as a bench or picnic table, with two picnic hampers incorporated into the sides of the boot that slide out to face the bench."We know that many Bentley customers already own SUVs, admiring their style, luxury, performance and versatility," said Bentley boss Wolfgang Durheimer.