Bentley SUV to Get Diesel Power, Electric Turbo

Volkswagen AG’s Bentley unit plans to offer a diesel engine with an electric turbocharger in its new Bentayga crossover/SUV, Automotive News reports.

This would make it the luxury marque’s first model to get a diesel engine and the second VW brand to use an e-charger system. Audi is expected to debut the technology early next year in its new Q7 large crossover.

Bentley will introduce the all-wheel-drive Bentayga next year with a twin-turbo 6.0-liter W-12 gasoline engine that makes 600 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque.

The company hasn’t provided any details about the new oil burner. But media reports suggest it will be an updated version of VW’s 4.0-liter V-8 and generate as much as 435 hp and 730 lb-ft of torque.A less powerful variant is planned for the Q7.

The diesel e-charger uses an electric motor to spool up the turbo's compressor and force air into the system at low engine speeds. This minimizes traditional turbo lag, improves fuel efficiency and boosts low-end power.

Audi tested the system last year in a prototype RS5 fitted with a 3.0-liter V-6. The e-charger increased the diesel's output 23% to 385 hp. But the booster's high power demands require a 48-volt architecture, which also will benefit the Benayga's active ride-control system.