Bentley’s Torcal EV tries to balance authenticity with fake V8 sounds

Bentley is preparing to launch its first electric vehicle, the 2027 Torcal SUV, with a focus on attracting a new type of buyer to the British luxury marque. The company recently gave a reporter a ride in a heavily camouflaged preproduction model ahead of its official debut later this month. The Torcal shares a platform with the electrified Porsche Cayenne and is positioned as a competitor in the high-end EV segment, which already includes models from Rolls-Royce, Cadillac, and Mercedes-Benz.

The Torcal is smaller than Bentley’s current Bentayga SUV but offers a spacious interior, according to the product line director who led the test ride. Engineers modified the flow of oil through the adaptive dampers to create a more noticeable difference between Comfort and Sport driving modes, and the ride was described as exceptionally smooth. The steering was also tuned to maintain center and return to it confidently, with the company emphasizing the vehicle’s alignment as a key development area.

A significant part of the Torcal’s development involved creating a simulated engine sound. Bentley drew inspiration from its 1980s Turbo R V8 model, but instead of using a synthesizer, the sound track was recorded from a musician’s drum beat and mixed in a studio. The product line director said the goal was to maintain craftsmanship in digital execution, with subtle imperfections in the sound meant to mimic an analog combustion powertrain. The throttle response was also tuned to feel like a torquey V8, and the audio cue is intended to help reduce motion sickness by giving occupants a sense of torque delivery.

The interior technology also reflects Bentley’s design philosophy. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen feature a background image of a crystal decanter hand-cut by Cumbria Crystal, with light highlighting the natural refractions of the cuts. The product line director noted that this approach extends craftsmanship into the digital realm.

Sustainability is another priority for the Torcal. The door cards use a natural fiber material instead of injection-molded plastic, described as fully recyclable and sustainable. Bentley is also working with UK textile company Fox Brothers to offer a Merino wool interior option as a durable and renewable material. The assembly plant in Crewe, England, has requirements for green energy use, including solar power.

Final specifications for the Torcal are not yet confirmed. The company expects power output to exceed 800 horsepower with more than 700 pound-feet of torque, and the vehicle’s curb weight is estimated at nearly 6,000 pounds. The battery size was not disclosed, but the range target is over 370 miles, with a peak charging rate of 400 kW that would allow a 10 to 80 percent charge in under 20 minutes. Pricing has not been announced, and the vehicle is scheduled for a full official unveiling later this month.

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