R&S Pride JAN 222.qxp 24/11/2020 13:58 Page 125
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LUXURY The newly facelifted Bentley Bentayga is better than ever, having matured into its position as a class-leading 4x4. It’s now more luxurious, capable and more recommendable than all of the German brands or the equivalent Range Rover... Words: Rob Davis.
UNDOUBTEDLY there are some things that the British do exceptionally well. Queuing, for example. Making small talk about the weather. We’re especially good at maintaining silent frustration at someone’s apparent lack of gratitude. At least, we are until the searing tension boils over and we’re forced to mutter a barely audible ‘you’re welcome(!),’ as though the phrase serves as some form of dark incantation. The British, though, have also perfected the art of understated taste and style. We do it brilliantly. Think Savile Row, rather than clothing emblazoned with a designer brand name. Think quiet country pubs, not London nightclubs. Think ‘Great British Bentley,’ rather than of the howling exhausts and black-alloy wheels of an SUV from AMG Mercedes or a gussied-up BMW.
Bentley doesn’t need to show off. Its cars are somehow understated despite their position in the market and their imperious price tag. The company has the skill of reflecting its values down to a fine art. When the Bentayga first appeared in showrooms some – me included – wondered if it would be a little brash; a clean-tyres school run SUV for well-heeled urban mums. In fact, the car has matured into its looks, especially with this new facelifted model, and wears its size and power tastefully. The car’s interior is beautiful, and for the first time I can honestly say I see where the extra investment goes, above what you’d pay for a Range Rover. The Bentayga is luxurious capable and eminently recommendable. >>
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