By Xolile Hopa

Bentley pulled the wraps off its new Torcal in London this week, introducing a fourth model line for the brand and, more significantly, its first venture into fully electric territory.

Designed, engineered and built in Crewe, the Torcal combines Bentley’s traditional focus on luxury and craftsmanship with a completely new electric powertrain. It is a large, five-metre-long SUV with a low and sleek design, featuring a long wheelbase, short overhangs and Bentley’s familiar upright stance. The illuminated diamond grille, distinctive lighting and strong rear haunches give it a modern look while still retaining clear links to Bentley’s existing models.

Inside, the Torcal continues with the high-end approach expected from Bentley. The cabin combines leather, wood, aluminium and wool, with new sustainable materials introduced for the first time. The seats offer 16-way adjustment, heating, ventilation and massage, while buyers can also specify Bentley’s Postural Adjust and Smart Seat Climate systems. There is seating for three passengers at the rear, along with a 460-litre boot and an additional 90-litre storage area at the front.

The biggest change, however, is underneath. The Torcal uses two permanent-magnet electric motors and an 800-volt, 113 kWh battery. The range is rated at up to 600 km on the WLTP cycle, while 10 to 80 percent charging can take around 16 minutes when using a 400 kW charger. Bentley says around 161 km of range can be added in seven minutes.

There are two versions available from launch. The standard Torcal produces 604 kW and 1,194 Nm, allowing it to reach 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. The sportier Torcal S increases output to 653 kW and 1,350 Nm, cutting the 0-100 km/h time to 2.9 seconds and raising the top speed to 260 km/h.

Bentley has also focused heavily on how the Torcal drives. Fully active suspension and adaptive dampers are designed to provide a smooth ride while maintaining body control, while rear-wheel steering improves manoeuvrability. The Torcal also offers different driving modes, allowing the character of the vehicle to be changed depending on whether the focus is comfort, performance or a more relaxed driving experience.

One of the more unusual features is the Torcal’s artificial propulsion sound. Instead of simply replicating an engine note, Bentley worked with musicians to create a soundscape inspired by the rhythm of its famous V8 engines. The sound changes with acceleration and driving mode and can also be switched off.

The Torcal also packs serious technology, including an augmented-reality head-up display, facial recognition, remote parking, advanced driver-assistance systems and powered doors that open and close on their own.

It’s a significant shift for Bentley, bringing electric performance, long-range capability and adaptive suspension together in a luxury SUV. Underneath, it may be electric, but Bentley has made sure the luxury and character that define the badge remain front and centre.