The Bentley EXP 9F can do anything — it can tame lions, break hearts and apparently take on the world’s toughest off-road race: the Dakar Rally.

You’re reading right, at least for the racing part. The posh, prissy luxury SUV not meant for ordinary folk will be getting down and dirty with the off-roaders. Given any knowledge of the Dakar that idea probably seems ridiculous, but it’s true.

Despite not being green lit for production and being years from showrooms, Bentley seems eager to prove that its newest shrine to wealth has off-road cred. So just like a young kid proving his way into a street gang, the fledgling SUV will brave real-world danger — but before it’s ready?

No, probably not, but then again this isn’t likely to be much more than a stunt to fool rich fools into buying one later down the road. Nobody who spends money on an EXP 9F is taking it to Moab, that’s for sure, but it’s still nice to know they could if they ever completely lost it.

According to CAR, Bentley is already making moves to buy old Race Touregs from private teams. That, or the obvious link to VW’s modular architecture and the fact that tough trucks like the Amarok already handle the race would suggest that any such Bentley would just be a masquerading Volkswagen.

Expect to see new front and rear ends tacked on to what will probably look a little like the car we saw in Geneva, but not much. It isn’t clear if the Race Toureg’s 2.5-liter twin-turbo diesel engine will remain with 296 hp or if there will be something else worked in. The version shown in March had a 6.0-liter W12 engine, though a long list of others are being considered, including a hybrid and diesel powertrain.

[Source: CAR]

Numbers like this were unthinkable only a few years ago, but it’s amazing what a little federal regulation can do to spur an engineering department — or industry in this case.

It’s nothing new that automakers are making leaps and bounds in improving fuel economy while trying to maintain the power a larger engine can provide. The high-end luxury segment has been one of the last bastions of big engines and obnoxious fuel economy, but even Bentley is starting to come around.

With the latest numbers on its 2013 Continental GT Coupe and Continental GTC Convertible coming out, it looks like even the ultra-rich can appreciate saving a little gas. The V8 GT and GTC are new for 2013 and offer significant improvement over the 12-cylinder engine being replaced.

The V8 coupe gets 15/24 mpg city.highway while the convertible is 1 mpg less efficient around town. Those numbers represent a 25 percent gain, though the car is still subject to a $1,000 gas guzzler tax.

Unfortunately, lopping off those extra four cylinders means a drop in horsepower from 567 with the 6.0-liter twin-turbo W-12 engine to 500 with the 4.0-liter V8.

It’s been nearly a decade since Bentley captured the overall win at the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2003, and now the British automaker is in the preparation stages to possibly make a return to racing.

Before you get too excited that the famous marque will once again be campaigning race cars, there is no time-frame set in stone for Bentley’s return. The automaker is currently exploring its options in terms of cars and classes, employing the assistance of long-time motorsports expert Graham Humphrys.

Humphrys is perhaps most well known for his work on the Williams Motorsport BMW V12 LMR that captured the 1999 Le Mans 24 Hours victory, but also has experience at Spice Engineering and Aston Martin. Currently Humphrys is assisting to determine what would be feasible for Bentley, including the possibility of racing in the GT3 category with a Supersports variant of the latest Continental GT model.

Another option it’s considering right now is to wait for the all-new Continental or to produce what Brian Gush, Bentley chassis and powertrain director, calls “a racing sports car with a derivative for the road.” Last year, Gush expressed his desires to bring Bentley back to prototype racing, but admits that the complexity of the 2014 Le Mans rulebook could prevent that from happening.

Regardless, a return to racing by Bentley is extremely likely considering that Wolfgang Durheimer, Bentley CEO, has always favored the idea. Durheimer has even brought up the concept of selling Bentley race cars to customers similar to what Porsche does.

[Source: Autoweek]

When Bentley debuted its EXP 9 F SUV Concept earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, it appeared that the vast majority of the world found its design a little less than pleasing.

It appeared that the British automaker was going straight to redesigning the SUV based on its lukewarm response, but now Bentley’s chief of exterior design, David Hilton, has gone on the record to say that “the response has been incredibly positive” on the EXP 9 F and that potential customers “love the presence of the vehicle and the personality it projects.” Surprising, to say the least.

So does that mean Bentley isn’t redesigning its EXP 9 F Concept before it makes its production debut? Not exactly. The automaker is close to finalizing the design for production and Hilton did admit that the styling will be toned down next time we see it. What will remain however is the quad-circle light design along with the SUV’s general proportions, rectangle taillights, and contrasting oval exhausts.

Hilton even hinted that the rear end look is something we will be seeing on more Bentley models in the near future, perhaps on a newly-redesigned Continental GT. Bentley still has high aspirations for its SUV when it hits the market, estimating that it will move 15,000 of them yearly. If that sounds like a high figure, it should; that’s more than double of what Bentley sold in total last year.

But changes are being made to make Bentley models more attractive in emerging markets such as China, India, and Russia. The British automaker is also working on providing more fuel-efficient powerplant options including the possible plug-in hybrid variant for the upcoming SUV.

As for future models, Hilton stated that there are no plans for a smaller Bentley.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Bentley‘s controversial EXP 9 F SUV that debuted last month at the Geneva Auto Show is soldiering on despite overwhelmingly negative reception at its unveiling. 

More than a month later, the luxury automaker is revealing engine details including possibilities that might come as a surprise. As might be expected, a 4.0-liter V8 version is being discusses, as is a 6.0-liter V12 to top the range, but the shocker here is that Bentley says it is considering a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

All three engine options are tentative to date, but the two traditional Bentley powerhouses are likely to live into production. If the automaker decides to roll out the third variant it would represent an entirely new direction for the company: an SUV, and a hybrid — both items that would be newcomers in the British marque’s line.

According to the company, the efficiency-minded powertrain would be based around a V6. We know that the V12 would offer 600 hp and 500 hp from the V8, but estimated horsepower figures for the hybrid system were absent. While there’s a chance the world could see such an EXP 9 F built, it seems more likely that the company is using its ostentatious and the attention it garners to signal possible future options across the board.

With tightening average fuel economy numbers becoming a greater issue for automakers like Bentley that have historically relied on gas-guzzling powerplants, it might make sense to start thinking of alternatives. Then again, it may very well be considering a hybrid SUV for China, it’s largest market.

At the gala opening of one of the world’s largest Bentley dealerships in Beijing, the luxury British automaker unveiled its Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition in honor of Queen Elizabeth II.

The new dealership opening also coincided with Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday, so it makes sense that the limited edition Mulsanne pays homage to Her Majesty. Back in 2002, Bentley’s Mulliner division created the State Limousine for the Queen, and now the same group will be creating just 60 examples of the Diamond Jubilee Mulsanne.

Each vehicle created presents a year of Her Majesty’s reign and will be distinguished by a range of exquisite, handcrafted features that pays tribute to the Diamond Jubilee. In all four headrests is gold stitching embroidery while veneered picnic tables in the rear cabin are decorated with a gold overlay representing the royal carriage. Highly-polished, stainless steel treadplate plaques sport ‘Bentley Mulliner, England’ and ‘Diamond Jubilee Edition’ script to designate the special edition.

The debut of the Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee edition in China may seem strange – since you know, it wasn’t in England and all – but China is now the largest market for Bentley Motors. So we’ll just call it a good business decision to show off its newest special edition model in its largest market first.

“This series of special cars, hand-built by our Mulliner Division, is our way of reciprocating the appreciation for British institutions, creativity and services we have been shown in China. And as proud holders of a Royal Warrant we also wanted to provide some memorable examples of British technology and craftsmanship,” said Richard Charlesworth, Director of Royal and VIP Relations for Bentley Motors.

GALLERY: Bentley Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition

According to Global Brand Leader for St. Regis Hotels & Resorts Paul James, “Starwood’s luxury brands continues to grow globally and so does the global nature of our guests. We are committed to providing experiences that far surpass their expectations, and this partnership with Bentley enables our discerning guests to explore must-see destinations in unparalleled style.”

Previously, St. Regis hosted a pilot bespoke Italian driving tour for Bentley model owners and guests of The St. Regis Rome and the newly opened St. Regis Florence in October, 2011. For the new partnership, the St. Regis hotels has chosen a line of Bentley Continental Flying Spur models for its house fleet of luxury travelers. The Bentley Flying Spurs will be appointed at resorts including The St. Regis Singapore, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi, as well as the flagship hotel in New York.

Head of Bentely Motors customer relations Joe Ashworth is pleased with the partnership, “At Bentley, we are committed to maintaining our position as the definitive British luxury car company. It is therefore important that we partner with a pinnacle brand that underpins our own values of craftsmanship, style, and sophistication. Our current and prospective customers recognize the heritage of both brands, and with Starwood’s Luxury Brands, we aim to broaden the appeal and experience of Bentley.”

Later this month, The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts and Bentley will hold an inaugural “Springtime Bentley Grand Tour” from Vienna to Salzburg, Austria. A two day event, guests will receive a grand experience of scenic Austria behind the wheel of a Bentley Continental GT W12 or a Bentley Continental GT V8. The journey will also showcase four iconic Luxury Collection Hotels including the Hotel Imperial in Vienna and the Schloss Fuschl in Salzburg.

GALLERY: Starwood Hotel and Resorts Bentley Continental

In a world where gas prices and fuel consumption are the biggest issues on the average consumer’s mind, British luxury automaker Bentley is insisting on using V8 and V12 engines without a hint of concern.

“We still offer V-12s and are the biggest producer of V-12 engines in the world,” Bentley chief operating officer Christophe Georges said.

That might seem like a foolhardy mentality, but the company’s sales numbers would beg to differ. Already this quarter, U.S. Bentley sales are up 40 percent.  Not only that, but despite being the traditionally largest market for the British luxury cars, American purchases were overtaken — by China.

If that isn’t enough to curl the one percent’s toes, the margin wasn’t a small one. Bentley sold 450 units in the U.S. but Chinese consumers beat that by more than 28 percent purchasing 578 cars.

Retaining large engines like the 6.75-liter, 505-hp V8 found in the new Mulsanne Mulliner will come at an increased cost in the future. Bentley will have to pay gas guzzler taxes as the U.S. government introduces increasingly stringent fuel consumption restrictions, but again that doesn’t seem to be a bother.

Call it arrogance or just good business sense, but 80 percent of Mulsannes sold are bespoke, which takes them far beyond the starting $291,000 price tag. In fact, the majority of customers pay between $320,000 and $340,000. At that price tag, it’s easy to understand why added taxes might seem like frivolous subtext.

The automaker is actually increasing the number of dealerships in the U.S. in anticipation of growing sales. A new store opened in Nashville Ten. earlier this year and other locations are scheduled for Thousand Oaks, Calif. and Charlotte N.C. in the coming months.

“The Chinese and U.S. markets are both strong. I don’t see (China’s lead) as a permanent situation,”  Georges said.  “Our customers have not forgotten about their dreams.”

This year marks Queen Elizabeth’s diamond jubilee, and to celebrate, a gathering of sixty rare and beautiful cars will be brought together at the quadrangle in Windsor Castle in England. 

Only cars of the highest caliber have been invited to the event, and will be arriving at the castle from all over the world. One car from every year starting from 1952 will be featured, representing every year since the Queen was inaugurated. The earliest car featured is a 1952 Bentley R Type(54′ R Type Shown Above), and the newest car will be a 2011 Lamborghini Aventador, Ferrari FF or a Porsche 991.

Most of the cars have already been selected, but an open casting call is out right now for owners of specific cars to volunteer to bring their fine machines to the Castle to be displayed for the Queen.

We have to wonder how much the Queen really likes cars? Hopefully she appreciates what she is getting, as this will undoubtedly be one of the nicest gatherings of rare luxury cars ever.

Below is a list of the cars that will be featured at the event. Some of them have been found already, and some haven’t. If you are the owner of one of the cars on the list and would like to participate, click here for more information.

• 1952 Bentley R Type // Riley RME
• 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 // Austin Healey 100 // Porsche 550
• 1954 Jaguar XK140 // Alfa Romeo Giulietta // Jensen 541
• 1955 Bentley S1 // Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud // Jaguar Mk1
• 1956 Austin Healey 100-6 // BMW 507 // Jaguar Mk VIII
• 1957 Jaguar XK150 //Lotus 7
• 1958 Lancia Flaminia // Bristol 406 // Aston Martin DB4
• 1959 Mini // Jaguar Mk2 // Maserati 5000GT
• 1960 Alvis TD21 // Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato // Saab 96
• 1961 Jaguar E-Type // Lancia Flavia // Triumph TR4
• 1962 MGB // Bentley S3 // Alfa Romeo Giulia
• 1963 Aston Martin DB5 // Lamborghini 350GT // Gorfon Keeble
• 1964 Porsche 911 // Ferrari 275GTB // Sunbeam Tiger
• 1965 Ford Mustang // Ford GT40 // Aston Martin DB6 // Bristol 409
• 1966 Jensen Interceptor // Lamborghini Miura // Alfa Romeo Spider
• 1967 Toyota 2000GT // Aston Martin DBS // TVR Vixen
• 1968 Ferrari Daytona // Morgan Plus 8 // Triumph TR5
• 1969 Bristol 411 // Triumph TR6 // Ford Capri
• 1970 Range Rover // Triumph Stag // Citroen SM // Lamborghini Urraco
• 1971 Maserati Bora // Alfa Romeo Alfasud // Bentley Corniche
• 1972 Bentley Corniche // Lancia Stratos // Jenson-Healey
• 1973 Ferrari 308 GT4 // Maserati Khamsin
• 1974 Lamborghini Countach // Lotus Eclat
• 1975 Triumph TR7 // Jaguar XJ-S // Rolls-Royce Camargue
• 1976 Aston Martin Lagonda // Lotus Esprit // Porsche 924
• 1977 Porsche 928 // Alfa Romeo Giulietta // BMW E23
• 1978 BMW M1 // Mazda RX-7
• 1979 Lancia Delta // Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126
• 1980 Audi quattro // Ferrari Mondial // Austin Metro
• 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 // Lamborghini Jalpa // Maserati Biturbo
• 1982 Lotus Excel // Porsche 944
• 1983 BMW M635CSi // Land Rover Defender // Peugeot 205
• 1984 Ferrari 288GTO // Ferrari Testarossa // Bentley 8
• 1985 Bentley Turbo R // BMW M5 // Ferrari 328
• 1986 Porsche 959 // BMW M3 // Aston V8 Zagato
• 1987 Ferrari F40 // Ferrari 348 // Land Rover Discovery
• 1988 Porsche 964
• 1989 Aston Martin Virage // BMW Z1
• 1990 Honda NSX
• 1991 TVR Griffith // Bentley Continental R
• 1992 McLaren F1 // Jaguar XJ220 // Ferrari 456
• 1993 Aston Martin DB7 // Porsche 993
• 1994 Maserati Quattroporte // Jaguar XJ // Ferrari F355
• 1995 Ferrari 355GTS
• 1996 Lotus Elise // TVR Cerbera // Porsche Boxster
• 1997 Jaguar XK // Bentley Turbo RT
• 1998 Bentley Arnage // Porsche 996
• 1999 Pagani Zonda // Ferrari 360
• 2000 Lotus Exige // Morgan Aero 8 // BMW Z8
• 2001 Aston Martin Vanquish
• 2002 Ferrari Enzo // Koenigsegg CC8S // Lamborghini Murciélago
• 2003 Lamborghini Gallardo // Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren
• 2004 Porsche Carrera GT // Aston Martin DB9 // Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
• 2005 Bugatti Veyron // Aston Martin Vantage // Gumbert Apollo
• 2006 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano // Lotus Europa S // Audi R8
• 2007 Nissan GT-R // Maserati GranTurismo
• 2008 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe // Jaguar XF // Lotus Evora
• 2009 Ferrari 458 Italia // Aston Martin Rapide // Jaguar XJ
• 2010 Aston Martin One-77 // Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
• 2011 Lamborghini Aventador // Ferrari FF // Porsche 991

It’s too bad that even though David Beckham could make enough money to purchase a fine collection of luxury and sports cars, he could never find the time to enjoy them.

Feeling a bit disappointed that his collection sits around in the UK collecting dust, Beckham’s loss can be someone’s gain as the 36 year old star soccer player (or is it football?) for the LA Galaxy has decided to sell his two Bentleys, a BMW 645i Convertible, a Land Rover Range Rover Sport, and Lamborghini Gallardo. Beckham may also sell his three Harley Davidson motorcycles.

“David’s collection is amazing and each of these vehicles is worth a fortune,” says a friend of David Beckham. “They are hardly used and are kept in prize condition — but David sees little point in them just mothballing in the UK and it’s not practical to ship them to America.”

Beckham’s pal adds, “Their value easily exceeds half a million but their real worth will be the association with Becks.”

David Beckham has sold several cars in the past including a BMW M3 that he bought in 1997 for 44,000 pounds. Beckham sold his BMW M3 in 2005 for £90,000.

GALLERY: David Beckham’s Cars

[Source: The Sun]

We all know hindsight is 20/20, and we can’t help but wonder if Bentley had the opportunity to do it all over again if they would have chosen a different path.

The British luxury automaker debuted their 9 F Concept SUV at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show to much criticism and it didn’t take long for Bentley to announce that the design would be revamped.

In an interview with Motor Trend, CEO Wolfgang Durheimer explained that Bentley had a few options when he decided to expand the model range. Besides the SUV that we see here today, Bentley strongly considered another sports car – one that would be smaller and more pure than the Continental GT. Durheimer didn’t elaborate on the other options, but did say that the sports car even has a model sitting outside the office of Dirk van Braeckel, the company’s head of design.

As for how Durheimer feels with the SUV option? “In the end the SUV was a better idea. It sits above all its competition. The sports car would have had the Porsche 911 Turbo as opposition.” We guess Durheimer doesn’t really see the Cayenne as competition to its upcoming SUV model.

Regardless, we are interested to see what Bentley does to change the design of their SUV around to make it more… palatable.

GALLERY: Bentley EXP 9 F Concept

[Source: Motor Trend]

Preparing for the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Bentley took its latest model in the line-up, the Continental GT 4.0 liter V8, for a series of high-speed runs to acquaint the new British sports car to the hill-climb event and to allow Goodwood’s VIP guests to catch an early glimpse of the latest Bentley.

As 2011 sales numbers reveal one-third of all Bentleys sold were GTs, the latest 4.0 V8 model looks to be an important component to the British brand’s future growth.

According to Bentley Marketing Operations Manager Steven Egan, “The team had an excellent day at Goodwood with the new Continental V8 and we’re now looking forward to returning in the summer as one of the Festival’s official partners and with our leading ‘Bentley Boy’ drivers behind the wheel.”

During the outing, Bentley also fielded its 6.0 liter W12 Continental Supersports Convertible ISR and the flagship 6.75 liter V8 Mulsanne to tackle the hill-climb as well.

GALLERY: Bentley at Goodwood