The clue is in the name with Bentley’s Speed variants: they’re the fastest of each respective model in the range. However, for the Bentayga Speed, the manufacturer has focused on dynamics as much as straight-line performance. Suspension revisions and the adoption of the all-wheel steering from the long wheelbase Azure promise greater agility, while a new, 15% stiffer calibration for the Sport setting offers improved body control.

Carbon ceramic brakes are optionally available, and are shrouded by 23” wheels exclusively. Ticking this box adds a drift mode to the 2.5-tonne SUV, with brake-based torque vectoring, a read-biased torque split, and an ESC Dynamic setting allowing the Bentayga to step beyond sensible cornering angles. When stationary, launch control can be activated, and the car can reach 62mph in just 3.4 seconds.

That’s one second quicker than the Bentayga V8S model, and half a second quicker than the W12-equipped Speed model that came before. Top speed and power have increased too, with 193mph attainable flat out, and 641bhp coming from the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8. While the Speed gains 15bhp compared to its 12-cylinder stablemate, torque is down from 664lb-ft (900Nm) to 627lb-ft (850Nm).

The new Bentayga Speed uses a new exhaust system to deliver its eight-cylinder soundtrack to the outside world. Optionally available is titanium pipework from Akrapovic, and all models have four outlets flanking an enlarged rear diffuser. Elsewhere, variant-specific styling tweaks include bespoke bumpers and sills, and high-gloss black trim for the mesh grille, window surrounds, roof rails, and rear spoiler. The lenses for the lights are tinted, and a range of customisation options including pinstriping and two-tone paint schemes are available.

The cabin gets unique upgrades comprising Speed-specific graphics for the infotainment display, the Speed wordmark on the dashboard, treadplates, and seats. Above the central infotainment touchscreen sits an analogue clock flanked by a pair of wing-shaped air vents, nicely reminding us that there’s more to interior design than increased real estate for pixels. A new 3D-effect Precision Diamond quilt design features on the door cards and shoulder rests as standard.

The new Bentayga Speed is available to configure and order now, with the first examples leaving the Crewe factory later this year. Prices haven’t been disclosed, but expect to part with over £200,000 for a personalised Bentayga Speed, complete with its 193mph top speed, 641bhp V8, sports car-baiting 0-62mph time and cossetting seats. And of course, drift mode.