Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept Gets Mulsanne Looks: 2012 Geneva Motor Show

One of the most highly anticipated debuts at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show is the Bentley SUV Concept which the British luxury automaker has previewed ahead of its official reveal.

Dubbed the EXP 9 F, the all-wheel drive luxury SUV is being displayed in concept form at the show powered by a 6.0L, twin-turbocharged W12 engine mated to an eight-speed transmission. A 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 and plug-in hybrid variant is also in development according to Bentley. The British automaker hopes to add the SUV as a third model line alongside the Mulsanne and Continental ranges.

“We are very excited by the potential of a high performance, ultra-luxury Bentley SUV. We know that many Bentley customers already own SUVs, admiring their style, luxury, performance and versatility. With EXP 9 F, Bentley is making a clear statement of intent that we have both the expertise and desire to meet and exceed their expectations,” said Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors.

The EXP 9 F Concept’s styling is unmistakably Bentley with plenty of Mulsanne-styling influences prevalent. The concept sports massive 23-inch wheels while the rear lights of the vehicle have been heavily influenced “by the forms and details of fighter jet engines.”

And as expected, the interior of the EXP 9 F SUV is packed with plenty of luxury and refinement. It will feature a 4 + 1 seating configuration with a rear armrest that can lift up to reveal a cooled compartment for champagne and glasses.

Bentley will be observing the customer and public reaction of the SUV concept at the Geneva Motor Show in hopes to refine the concept further and ultimately make a commitment to production. We’re a little bit on the fence on the SUV’s styling based on these images, but we’ll take a closer look once the cover comes off at the show.