Bentley launches first all-electric SUV 'Torcal' at £173,000 to rival luxury EV market
British luxury carmaker Bentley Motors has officially entered the electric vehicle era with the global debut of the all-new Torcal, its first fully electric model in the marque's 107-year history.
Unveiled in London, the high-performance electric SUV becomes the fourth pillar in Bentley’s contemporary model range, lining up alongside the Continental GT, Flying Spur, and Bentayga. Designed and engineered at Bentley’s historic headquarters in Crewe, northwest England, the Torcal is positioned at an entry price of £173,000 (around $229,000)—substantially undercutting Ferrari’s electric debutant, the Luce, which entered the market with an estimated starting price of €550,000 ($626,000).
Performance, Powertrain, and Ultra-Fast Charging
The Torcal arrives with two powertrain options: the Core and the performance-oriented S.
- Torcal Core: Produces 810 bhp and 1,194 Nm of torque, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.
- Torcal S: Delivers 876 bhp and up to 1,350 Nm of torque via Launch Control, reaching 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and achieving a top speed of 162 mph.
Equipped with advanced battery architecture, the SUV offers a driving range of up to 375 miles (approximately 600 km) on a single charge. When plugged into a 400 kW high-speed charging system, the Torcal replenishes its battery from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes, with roughly 100 miles of range added in just seven minutes.
Design Language and Heritage Fusion
Measuring five metres in length, the Torcal stands as the shortest four-door Bentley ever manufactured, featuring an 11.1-metre turning circle to maintain everyday urban usability. Practicality remains high with a 460-litre boot complemented by a 90-litre front luggage trunk under the bonnet.
The vehicle represents the production realisation of Bentley’s EXP 15 concept. Lead designer Robin Page developed the car’s stance around four pillars: proportion, graphical elements, surface language, and intricate detailing. The exterior showcases an illuminated diamond grille, advanced signature lighting, and muscular rear surfaces shaped to emulate a "resting beast."
Luxury Cabin and Sensory Experience
Inside, the Torcal combines physical switches on the centre console and steering wheel with curved OLED screens. Sustainable luxury is a focal point, introducing the automotive industry’s first 100% Merino wool fabric certified by the Responsible Wool Standard, accompanied by responsibly sourced walnut offcuts, handcrafted veneers, and fine leather.
Driver and passenger comfort features include 16-way adjustable seats with heating, ventilation, massage capabilities, postural adjustment, and leg-massage functions. For additional versatility, power-folding rear seats are fitted for the first time in a Bentley.
Bentley has also addressed the sensory aspect of EV driving through the Bentley Dynamic Symphony, an acoustic soundtrack inspired by the rhythm of the brand’s historic 6¾-litre V8 engine, blended with orchestral elements such as viola, bass guitar, and percussion that modulate with vehicle speed and torque demand.
Navigating the Luxury EV Landscape
Speaking to CNBC, Bentley Motors chairman and CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser highlighted strong early enthusiasm from clients across global markets, emphasizing that affluent buyers are increasingly knowledgeable and receptive to high-end EVs.
While industry peers such as Porsche and Lamborghini have adjusted electric rollout timelines amid fluctuating luxury EV demand, Bentley affirmed its commitment to a long-term four-year development philosophy, prioritizing signature driving feel, refinement, and timeless craftsmanship.