Used 2016 Bentley EXP 9 F Concept SUV Review & Ratings

Performance

If 600 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque is not enough to create a little drool on the side of your mouth, then you must be impossible to impress. The Bentley EXP 9 F Concept is going to be just an absolute beast on the road. This magnitude of power comes from a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12. This is the same engine found in the Continental; however, the EXP 9 F has gone through a lot of tweaking to deliver the acceleration and passing power that it has. Both a V8 engine and plug-in hybrid powertrain are being explored as well. An eight-speed gearbox will be the only transmission that is available.

This sport utility vehicle is all-wheel drive, which means that it will be ready for any condition it encounters. Despite the fact that it looks like it should be curbside at the red carpet, it actually boasts all-terrain capabilities, if you aren’t afraid to get it a little dirty.

Although acceleration times have not been rigorously tested, it is expected to set a new benchmark in zero to 60 mph at around 4 seconds. Fuel-economy information has not yet been released either.

Technology

The EXP 9 F is sure to have more technology than one person needs in a vehicle. This is one of those SUVs you could practically live in. Just a few of the many features in this category you can expect to enjoy include:

• Fold down keyboard and internet capability for backseat passengers with a tablet or iPad
• Powered footrest in rear seat
• Touchscreen navigation system with real-time traffic
• Entertainment screen in rear for movies
• Altimeter for navigating in high altitudes
• Virtual map on your dash
• Cooled compartment in rear armrest for beverages

Safety

Although it is far too early to expect any results from braking tests or crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, one can only expect that Bentley would come up with a few clever safety features, just because they can. This is a company that has always been respected for the extra thoughtful details it puts into each one of its cars. One can only assume that the Bentley EXP 9 F will have the same standard safety features of other cars in this line, such as:

• ABS-brakes
• Stability control
• Front and side-impact airbags
• Security system
• Seatbelt pretensioners
• Occupancy sensor
• Low/hi beam headlights
• Headlight washers
• LED brake lights
• Parking assist
• Keyless access system
• Rear door safety locks
• Ignition disabler
• Tire-pressure monitoring

Appearance

It is surprising that many people are not thrilled about the exterior of the Bentley EXP 9 F because this SUV is fierce. Every detail echoes of luxury and class. The grille is iconic of the name and the headlamps and fog lights both offer almost a pinwheel appeal, which complements the hypnotizing turbine fan-like wheels. Tinted glass offers a mysterious vibe while a rear spoiler gives it a sporty appeal from the rear.

Comfort

In your wildest dreams, you would have a hard time imagining a cabin as exquisite as what you find in the EXP 9 F. Everything is either lush leather or rich wood, and all controls are at your fingertips. After driving this vehicle a few times, you may never need to take your eyes off the road to find the climate control or roll down a rear window. Even the touchscreen navigation system is placed at the perfect level in front of the dash, rather than on top of it. The EXP 9 F seats five and the cabin is silent, as you would expect from a Bentley.

Cargo

Not only is there plenty of cargo space in this SUV, it comes with a few thoughtful extras you just won’t find elsewhere. When you open the back two-part split tailgate, the bottom half turns into a beautiful seat. Nestled in the side panels of the cargo area are picnic containers with plates, silverware and cocktail glasses, allowing you to park anywhere and enjoy a snack.