Bentley Bentayga gets a diesel heart

Bentley has premiered its first ever diesel-powered car in its 97-year history, the Bentayga Diesel.

The storied British marque claims that the SUV is takes driveline smoothness to a new level – not at all like the reports of some diesel SUVs. According to Bentley, the manufacturer has worked tirelessly to ensure this engine is as quiet and refined as possible.

The 4.0-litre V8 diesel engine is incredibly complicated, as Bentley explains in the press release: "Variable-geometry, sequential twin-scroll turbochargers are powered by the exhaust gases, while a third electric supercharger – powered by Bentley's innovative 48V system – spools up within 30 microseconds to eliminate turbo lag."

If that sounds a bit complex, the salient facts are these: the triple-charged 4.0-litre V8 produces 320kW and a whopping 900Nm of torque. That's enough power to propel the 2390 kilogram Bentayga Diesel from rest to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 270km/h.

All 900Nm of sumptuous torque is delivered from 1000rpm, the company claims, meaning effortless thrust for the Bentayga. But the Bentayga Diesel will also be the most frugal Bentley ever made, with a combined fuel cycle figure of 7.9L/100km and a CO2 rating of 210g/km. All this will add up to a vehicle capable of covering 1000km on a single tank of fuel.

There is no official word on when the Bentayga Diesel will reach our shores, but Bentley says customers can expect delivery of the luxury SUV around the middle of 2017. Prices are yet to be confirmed.