Bentley Bentayga smashes Production SUV record at Pikes Peak

Driven by two-time champion Rhys Millen, the Bentayga completed the 19.99km course in just 10 minutes 49.9 seconds - taking nearly two minutes off the previous record by averaging 107km/h.

Climbing almost 1,524m through 156 corners, the Bentayga deployed its unique combination of a 600bhp, 900Nm W12 engine, adaptive air suspension, active electric 48V anti-roll control and carbon ceramic brakes to set a stunning new benchmark.

Millen commented, "What an incredible machine. To take it with minimal modifications and be able to drive up this course in under 11 minutes is a huge testament to the performance and level of engineering in the Bentayga."

"I had a great run; the car was planted all the way up and gave me the confidence I needed to push hard. I'm delighted to take the record for Bentley and for everyone that's been involved in this project," he added.

Only minimal changes were made to a standard production Bentayga in order to comply with the rules. The front seats were replaced with racing versions while the rear seats were removed, and a roll cage and fire suppression system were installed. Tyres were selected from Pirelli's DOT-marked range, and a production-specification Akrapovic sports exhaust was fitted.

In every other way, the Pikes Peak car is a standard Bentayga, finished in eye-catching Radium Satin paintwork accented by the all-black chrome and carbon fibre body kit provided by Bentley's Black Specification.

To celebrate the record-breaking run, Bentley has announced a new Limited Edition Bentayga, strictly limited to just 10 cars. Created and handcrafted by Mulliner - Bentley's in-house bespoke and coachbuilding division - the Pikes Peak Bentayga is an homage to the achievements of the Bentayga W12 on the mountain.