Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Brings Uber-Luxury to SUV

The much discussed Bentley SUV is finally here being called the EXP 9 F. While a concept for now, Bentley has hinted strongly that it wants to add an SUV to its lineup. Unless popular opinion is horrible, expect to see the EXP 9 F on the roads eventually. 

“EXP 9 F had to represent the absolute pinnacle of the sport utility sector, setting a new benchmark for this type of vehicle. The style had to reflect Bentley’s sporting character despite its radically different package and purpose together with sculptured, flowing surfaces in keeping with the Bentley tradition,” said lead designer Dirk van Braeckel.

The styling of the EXP looks like a grown up Bentley with large, flat surfaces. The front has multiple air inlets to feed the W12. The rear has wide fenders that have the rear door pulls incorporated into them. The wheels are 23in in diameter with a design like a turbine fan. 

Power comes from a 6.0l twin-turbo W12 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission with 600hp and 800Nm of torque. In a novel design move, the two circular areas where the LED running lights are located are also the air intakes for each turbo. Around back the dual chrome exhausts are styled to appear rifled inside. 

Bentley is clear though that the W12 would not necessarily be the EXP 9 F's production engine. It is more than capable of using either Bentley's twin-turbo V8 or new hybrid powertrain. 

The interior is swathed in the standard Bentley luxury. It uses a 3D navigation system on its touch screen that also displays. The interior leather is diamond-stitched with lots of walnut trim. For the concept, the cargo area includes a complete picnic set. 

Bentley is going to be analyzing customer opinions about the car before it officially gives the EXP 9 F the green light, and it is not against altering the concept if its customers do not like certain elements.