The Bentley Bentayga, the luxury brand’s first SUV, will be powered by a new twin-turbo 12-cylinder 6-litre 600bhp petrol engine when it launches in 2016, making it the most powerful production SUV to date.

Bentley says the Crewe-built Bentayga combines unparalleled luxury with effortless performance and everyday usability, and offers a true Bentley driving experience and showcases innovative technology features.

It will be capable of 0-62mph in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 187mph.

The Bentayga will also be available as diesel and hybrid variants in the future, as will a seven-seat option.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, said: “The Bentayga is truly the Bentley of SUVs. It redefines luxury in the SUV sector and offers a genuine Bentley experience in any environment, thanks to a combination of unparalleled attention to detail, go-anywhere ability and cutting-edge technology.

“With this extraordinary car we are looking forward to an exciting period of strong growth and sales success for Bentley. The Bentayga is the next step in our brand’s bold future.”

The Bentayga will make its full public debut at the IAA Frankfurt Show next week, with customer deliveries commencing in early 2016.

It offers a wide range of on- and off-road drive settings via Bentley’s Drive Dynamics Mode and optional Responsive Off-Road Setting. Up to eight modes are available, allowing drivers, at the simple turn of a dial, to select the perfect dynamic set-up for any surface or road condition.

This versatility is complemented by Bentley Dynamic Ride (electrically activated 48V active roll control)  and Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS).

Four or five seat configuration

Other innovative systems available on the Bentayga include Electronic Night Vision, which uses infra-red technology to identify potential obstacles ahead, and a Head-Up Display, which reduces driver distraction and increases safety.

The Bentayga’s 8” touch screen infotainment system boasts navigation technology, a 60GB hard drive, and a choice of up to 30 languages.

Rear seat passengers benefit from the introduction of the Bentley Entertainment Tablet – a removable 10.2” Android device with 4G, WiFi and Bluetooth for effortless, high-speed on-board connectivity.

Customers can choose between three different sound systems for the Bentayga: Bentley Standard Audio, Bentley Signature Audio and Naim for Bentley Premium Audio.

The interior has handcrafted wood and leather throughout, and the dashboard takes the iconic Bentley ‘wing’ design as its inspiration.

The Bentayga can be specified in four- or five-seat configuration. The four-seat configuration is the most focused on comfort and luxury, with two individual rear seats which adjust in 18 different ways and include massage and ventilation functions as well as footrests.  A veneered rear console hides additional functionality such as cup holders, generous storage areas and USB charging sockets.