Bentley has confirmed production for its new SUV which will unlock potential growth for the brand in markets like China and Russia.

Bentley revealed an SUV concept (pictured) at the Geneva Motor Show in 2012 which prompted negative reactions from the world’s press and prompted a rethink from the luxury brand’s design team.

The new styling direction of the new model has not been revealed.

Bentley is expecting to build 3,500 SUVs at its plant in Crewe from 2016 with prices estimated to start from £140,000.

Bentley will be one of the first super-luxury SUVs which will be available for sale as other luxury brands like Lamborghini and Rolls-Royce all look to launch rivals to go on sale in China and Russia.