The Porsche Macan Could Be on the Path to Getting an Evil Cousin

Bentley is still on track with developing its baby SUV to slot below the larger Bentayga. Recent spy photos captured a two-box-shaped test mule running around at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.

While it could’ve been any SUV prototype wrapped in the obvious camouflage, the test mule’s cutouts for its headlights gave away the most telling clue. They’re clearly shaped to mimic the design of the latest Flying B models.

Rumors have been floating around about a new SUV from the brand for a little while. But the potential existence of another SUV from the Flying B wasn’t really confirmed until recently.

A smaller Bentley SUV nobody’s really asking for

Bentley

According to various reports, Bentley finally realized the financial benefits of selling SUVs after its Bentayga flagship rose to the top of its sales charts. Since its launch a decade ago, the Bentayga has become the automaker’s best-selling model.

Now, the British carmaker is looking to replicate the formula, but in compact form and as an EV.

Chris Chin

Back in July, the rumors began surfacing with sources indicating that Bentley codenamed the new model as the “Urban SUV.” So far, the automaker hasn’t released the name of the actual production vehicle.

However, multiple sources indicate the new SUV will utilize the same modular platform underpinning the latest Macan EV. Despite many automakers rolling back their plans on electric vehicles, Bentley remains committed.

Porsche

The latter is likely a result of Bentley’s parent company, Volkswagen AG, trying to maximize its investments into its all-electric platform. Rather than canceling the platform and letting all that R&D money and effort go to waste, VW AG is likely trying to run with it.

Expected due date in mid-2026

Bentley

So far, details remain sparse regarding technical specs. But CarScoops reports the production version of the Urban SUV will likely also share the same propulsion system as the Macan EV. That same system also powers the new Cayenne Electric, but scaled up to manage a larger vehicle.

This means 800-volt architecture as standard, which will enable fast-charging and high output.

Bentley

For reference, the most powerful Cayenne Electric variant, the Turbo, pumps out an eye-watering 1,139 horsepower and 1,106 pound-feet of torque with launch control engaged.

Otherwise, it pumps out a total system rating of 844 hp. Given that the Bentley is a step up from the Porsche, rumors suggest even more power.

Bentley

As for final looks, all roads point to styling that takes inspiration from the most recent concept, the EXP 15. Although not a crossover SUV in the conventional sense, the EXP 15 appears more like a lifted competitor to Rolls-Royce’s Spectre EV.

Bentley

The test mule looks more like a conventional fastback design. So don’t expect a full-fledged production version of the EXP 15. Either way, sales are expected to start sometime in 2027.

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

Related Topics