pole magazine 1 | Seite 62

Bentley EXP 9 F (approximate MSRP $700,000) Bentley motors stands at the pinnacle of performance and luxury, and with their new SUV model they intend to raise the standards of excellence to a new level. In 2001 Bentley engineers developed the EXP Speed 8 which acted as a prototype for the EXP 9 F that launched earlier this year. The ‘F’ stands for falcon, and the characteristics of the vehicle are meant to emulate that of the bird: powerful, fast, agile, and refined. The 6.0 liter, twin-turbocharged W12 petrol engine is a hallmark of Bentley, but the SUV sets new benchmarks for all competitors with its 600bhp and 800 Nm of torque, in addition to an 8-speed transmission. Other powertrain options are available including a V6 plug-in hybrid that has an eighteen mile range in full electric mode, still capable of 0 to 60mph in less than five seconds. The exterior design combines muscular surfaces with clean lines and the rear lights are designed with similar detail to that of fighter jet engines. The 23- inch alloy wheels are reminiscent of turbine fan blades, but one of the most extraordinary features is a sporty profile that makes it a unique luxury SUV. The trunk lifts as any other, but it has a two-part split tailgate that can be used for sporting activities such as hiking or a picnic. The interior design contains traditional handcrafted wood, leather, and polished metal elements to create and classic yet contemporary ambience. The soft leather seats are diamond quilted and the floor mats are reversible-with one side finished in leather for use in the great outdoors, and the other in silk, for the city. The roof provides a panoramic view, and rear passengers can enjoy movies with the remote controlled entertainment center or browse online with internet connectivity that supports tablets or iPads. Seating is available for four plus one and when the rear seats are not in use, they can be powered forward for additional storage space. The EXP 9 F exudes refined elegance with an armrest that, when lifted, exposes a cooled compartment for champagne and flutes. For a handsome price owners can acquire all the benefits of Bentley luxury and own a part of British history. 62