Bentley Bentayga vs. Rolls-Royce Cullinan: Complete comparison 2026

Bentley Bentayga is a pioneer in the ultra-luxury SUV segment, masterfully combining sporty dynamics with traditional British craftsmanship. In contrast, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan defines the absolute pinnacle of automotive luxury, offering uncompromising comfort and a majestic road presence reminiscent of the legendary magic carpet ride. In the following comparison, we take a detailed look at which of these two exceptional British aristocrats represents the better choice in a direct battle for the title of the ultimate luxury SUV.

When you place the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan side by side, you will immediately notice the different approach to the proportions of a luxury SUV. While the Bentayga tries to mask its dimensions with sportier and smoother lines, evoking a more muscular and elevated gran turismo, the Cullinan proudly displays its majestic size. If we focus on models from the 2020 to 2022 period, i.e., current generation cars appearing on the used car market as roughly four-year-olds, the differences in external dimensions are very significant and directly affect daily life with these giants.

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan dominates primarily with its length. With a value of 5,341 mm, it is roughly 200 mm longer than the standard version of the Bentley Bentayga (5,125 to 5,144 mm depending on the version and year). This difference is most evident when looking for a parking space in the city center or in underground garages, where the Cullinan can be uncomfortably long for standard parking spots. Bentley responded to this disproportion in 2022 by introducing the extended version, the Bentayga EWB (Extended Wheelbase), which strongly competes with its British rival with a length of 5,305 mm; however, the standard model is noticeably more agile and easier to maneuver in city traffic.

Another key parameter where Rolls-Royce reigns supreme is the wheelbase. The massive 3,295 mm of the Cullinan exceeds the standard wheelbase of the Bentayga (2,995 mm) by a full 30 centimeters. In practice, this means absolutely unrivaled legroom for passengers in the second row, making the Cullinan the ultimate car for being driven by a personal chauffeur. Although Bentley extended the wheelbase to 3,175 mm in the EWB version, the Cullinan remains a step ahead in terms of pure interior volume, which will be especially appreciated by passengers seeking absolute comfort without any compromises.

When comparing width and height, we find that while both cars are comparable in width, the difference in height is significant. The width of the Cullinan is exactly 2,000 mm and the Bentayga 1,998 mm – in narrow streets or highway narrowings, both models will require the driver's maximum attention. However, the height difference is noticeable at first glance. With a height of 1,835 mm, the Rolls-Royce is more than 10 centimeters taller than the Bentley (1,728 mm). This provides the Cullinan not only with a better view of the road ahead and the typical noble driving position but also easier entry. The Bentayga, with its lower and sportier silhouette, conversely benefits from a lower center of gravity, which is positively reflected in more confident driving characteristics and less body roll in corners.

When choosing a premium car from the used car market, especially generations from around 2022, everyday practicality and family usability play an irreplaceable role despite all the luxury. Luggage capacity is one of the key factors determining whether a car is ideal only for representative travel or for full-fledged family life. The differences in the luggage compartment concepts of these two British aristocrats clearly show the manufacturers' different approaches to utility value. While one car represents a compromise between dynamic design and storage space, the other focuses on uncompromising dimensions that effortlessly offer space for several extra suitcases and are completely sufficient for weekend shopping or longer holidays.

Representing a slightly sportier approach is the first-generation Bentley Bentayga. In its most sought-after standard five-seat configuration (with traditional V8 or W12 internal combustion engines), it features a luggage compartment with a basic volume of 484 liters. If necessary, the rear seats can be folded down, creating a generous area and a total maximum transport capacity of 1,774 liters. For those interested in electrified driving, it is essential to note that the Bentayga Hybrid version shows a slightly reduced capacity due to battery placement, to 479 liters in the base and 1,769 liters with the backrests folded. We must also not forget that if you opt for the more exclusive four-seat variant, the rear fixed console prevents any folding, and the resulting volume uncompromisingly drops to just 387 liters.

On the opposite side of the spectrum stands the monumental Rolls-Royce Cullinan, which dominates not only on the road but also in the table of interior dimensions. In the standard configuration with a three-seat rear bench (Lounge Seats), it offers a trunk volume of 560 liters, which increases to approximately 600 liters after removing the parcel shelf. By folding these rear backrests, you get a huge maximum volume of up to 1,886 liters. Furthermore, this model excels in practical details; the base of the rear seats is cleverly raised above the trunk floor itself, so luggage cannot slide forward even during sharp braking and disrupt the comfort of the passengers. Thanks to significantly more generous dimensions, the Cullinan can handle the transport of substantially larger items without any trouble.

In terms of pure transport capacity, the British battle is clearly decided. The Bentley Bentayga is a practical and sufficiently spacious car for the vast majority of everyday situations; however, if you require staggering volume for the whole family and complete freedom when packing, the majestic Rolls-Royce Cullinan represents a much more generous choice.

Although both of these super-luxury SUVs boast breathtaking performance and monumental dimensions, their ability to tow heavy trailers differs surprisingly significantly. The weight of a braked trailer is often key for owners of vehicles in this category – whether it's transporting luxury yachts, heavy horse trailers, or extra-large caravans for a family holiday.

Bentley excels with an absolute maximum
The Bentley Bentayga (1st generation) absolutely dominates in this practical discipline. Its maximum towing capacity for a braked trailer is exactly 3,500 kg, which is the legislative maximum for regular passenger cars in Europe. A crucial advantage for those interested in a roughly four-year-old used car is that this value remains the same across all versions. Whether you choose the popular V8 engine, the majestic W12 twelve-cylinder, or the plug-in hybrid (Bentayga Hybrid), you always have the full 3.5-ton capacity at your disposal. Unlike other hybrids on the market, where batteries often limit towing power, Bentley makes no compromises here.

Rolls-Royce bets primarily on comfort
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan (1st generation), on the other hand, offers a maximum towing capacity for a braked trailer of 2,700 kg. Although the manufacturer may not state this figure at first glance in some data sheets, its homologated towing value is exactly 2.7 tons. For unbraked trailers, both models share the standard European limit of 750 kg. The lower capacity of the Cullinan is a direct trade-off for the specifically tuned chassis, which focuses on the legendary absolute comfort reminiscent of a "magic carpet ride" and logically gives way slightly to raw utility power.

What does this mean in practice?
In everyday life, this difference means a huge amount of flexibility in favor of Bentley. With the Bentayga, you can worry-free hitch up the largest twin-axle trailers with a pair of adult horses or a massive sea-going vessel. The Cullinan, with its 2.7 tons, can still confidently handle a medium-sized boat or a very spacious caravan (which is still sufficient for a generous weekend load), but with the very heaviest loads, it would reach its technical limits.

In conclusion, if you plan to use your ultra-luxury SUV as the ultimate tow vehicle for your demanding hobbies, the Bentley Bentayga is clearly the more versatile and uncompromising choice thanks to its 3,500 kg capacity. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, on the other hand, makes sense where towing a trailer is more of an occasional occurrence without extreme loads.

When comparing the powertrains of the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the differing approaches of these two British luxury brands to propulsion are clearly revealed. While Bentley offers a wide range of modern power units, including a more efficient plug-in hybrid and a dynamic V8, Rolls-Royce remains entirely faithful to the uncompromising philosophy of a single "velvety" twelve-cylinder under the hood. For those interested in used cars roughly four years old (around the 2022 model year), this means a fundamental difference: with Bentley, you can choose between high efficiency for daily driving, the agility of a lighter engine, or the brutal power of the W12. In contrast, the Cullinan represents the absolute pinnacle of traditional refinement, regardless of official fuel consumption figures. Both platforms rely fully on advanced eight-speed automatic transmissions from ZF and feature sophisticated all-wheel drive as standard.

Bentley Bentayga Powertrains

The Bentley Bentayga stands out in the super-luxury class for its extraordinary range variability. For roughly four-year-old used cars, the twin-turbocharged 4.0 V8 petrol engine is the standard and most popular choice, providing an ideal compromise between agility and an impressive 404 kW of power. For environmentally conscious drivers focused more on shorter city trips, the Bentayga Hybrid model is available. It combines a 3.0 V6 engine with an electric motor (system output of 330 kW) and allows for pure emission-free local operation. At the absolute performance peak available for models around 2022 stands the Bentayga Speed version. It boasts a massive 6.0 W12 engine, delivering a staggering 467 kW and acceleration from the realm of supercars.

Note on availability for used cars: If you were looking for the once very popular Bentayga V8 Diesel (320 kW) with its massive torque or the very first generation of the standard non-sport W12 engine (447 kW) for high daily mileage, you will unfortunately not succeed with four-year-old cars. Both of these engine options were phased out of sale during 2019 and 2020 due to stricter emission standards and are no longer found on newer used cars. They are nevertheless shown in the table for the completeness of the generation.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan Powertrains

Unlike its competitor, Rolls-Royce does not follow current trends of electrification or downsizing. The Cullinan, in its first generation—which includes cars available on the current market for slightly used cars (2020-2024 model years)—is supplied exclusively with a majestic twin-turbocharged twelve-cylinder with a traditional displacement of 6.75 liters. However, this unit is not tuned for aggressive response at all. Its main advantage is absolute smoothness of operation and a massive delivery of torque even at near-idle speeds. The standard version produces 420 kW, which is enough for completely effortless and confident acceleration.

Customers preferring a slightly sharper visual and technical presence can choose the Black Badge variant. In this case, the power was increased to 441 kW and the torque jumped to a staggering 900 Nm with a slightly modified engine control unit map. An extremely interesting technological advantage of all Cullinan versions is that its automatic transmission, the so-called Satellite Aided Transmission, reads data from the onboard GPS navigation and downshifts well in advance of approaching sharp turns or hilly route profiles.

Which powertrain to choose?

The decision between this British elite is strictly governed by the preferences of the future driver and their willingness to make compromises:

• Bentley's Strengths: The biggest ace up the Bentayga's sleeve is its versatility. The V8 engine is the "golden mean" for most owners, combining dynamics and surprisingly refined daily commuting. Business owners using the car primarily locally will welcome the efficient plug-in hybrid. However, a disadvantage of the hybrid V6 powertrain can be a slight loss of that superior "aristocratic" performance on the highway, both acoustically and in terms of power.
• Rolls-Royce's Strengths: The Cullinan has only one answer and doesn't need to seek compromises. Its V12 petrol engine is an absolute masterpiece and dominates the market in soundproofing and the suppression of all unwanted vibrations – this contributes favorably to the unrivaled protection of the passengers from the outside world. An unsurprising trade-off and obvious disadvantage is, logically, relentless fuel consumption and overall technological old-fashionedness for those buyers who might be bothered by the absence of emission-free driving in city centers.

When choosing a luxury SUV from the used market, typically around four years old, selecting the right engine is key to long-term satisfaction, reliability, and reasonable service costs. While Bentley has had a relatively wide range of engines in its history – from plug-in hybrids to earlier diesel engines and the massive W12 twelve-cylinder – Rolls-Royce strictly sticks to a single, highly exclusive architecture of a classic gasoline twelve-cylinder. From the perspective of daily usability, maintenance costs, and driving character, it is necessary to carefully consider what you truly expect from the car and which mechanical traps to watch out for when buying a used one.

For the Bentley Bentayga, we recommend: 4.0 V8 (404 kW / 550 hp)

Although the flagship W12 twelve-cylinder was a symbol of British engineering, for a used car from around 2021 or 2022, the 4.0 V8 twin-turbocharged gasoline engine makes by far the most sense from the overall range. Historical engines like the V8 Diesel were withdrawn from the market as early as 2019, and the W12 engine after 2020 appeared mostly only in the highly specific and rare Speed version. The eight-cylinder is thus the ideal compromise for models from recent years. Thanks to sharing the platform and mechanics with other group models (for example, Porsche or Audi vehicles), it offers much better availability of service and spare parts. The engine offers a massive 770 Nm of torque, perfectly smooth power delivery, and excellent agility, surpassing the heavier and more cumbersome W12 version in its willingness to turn thanks to a lighter front axle. Additionally, the cylinder deactivation system can bring real consumption down to a relatively solid 11 to 12 liters during steady driving. In terms of reliability, it is a very robust unit. However, for four-year-old used cars, it is recommended to thoroughly check the cooling system – carefully inspect the area around the water pump and thermostat, where leaks and minor coolant seepages may occur. Checking the service history of the eight-speed automatic transmission is also crucial; ideally, for cars with a mileage of around 80,000 kilometers, a preventive transmission oil change should have already taken place. This engine is a perfect choice for active drivers as well as for frequent highway trips across Europe.

For the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, we recommend: 6.75 V12 (420 kW / 571 hp)

Rolls-Royce simplifies the choice for customers because under the massive hood of the first-generation Cullinan (available from 2019–2024, before being replaced by the modernized Series II), you will find exclusively a twin-turbocharged V12 with the traditional displacement of 6.75 liters (internally designated as 6.8 V12). Although a more powerful Black Badge variant can be purchased, the standard version with 420 kW will fully satisfy the vast majority of buyers. Its main attraction is not a sharp sports response, but absolute silkiness, tomb-like silence inside the cabin, and an endless wave of 850 Nm of torque, which is available from as low as 1,600 rpm. In this configuration, the Cullinan is a perfect, effortless cruiser, but you must tolerate a higher appetite – real consumption commonly hits values above 16 liters. The twelve-cylinder itself shares its foundations with top BMW models, which ensures very good mechanical reliability for the car. However, the stumbling block for four-year-old used cars lies in the chassis and electrical system. As a future owner, you must focus on the functionality of the sophisticated air suspension. If the car cannot level its ride height smoothly and without suspicious compressor humming after starting, or if it leans to one side when parked, prepare for a very expensive replacement of the air springs or compressor. A frequent problem with luxury "garage queens" is also the rapid degradation of 12V batteries due to the huge amount of electronics on board. If the car was not regularly connected to a trickle charger, a weak battery will very soon trigger an avalanche of phantom system and display errors that can truly torment an inexperienced buyer.

When choosing ultra-luxury SUVs like the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, official fuel consumption figures are rarely the primary purchase criterion. However, the differences between official data and everyday reality can be vast. Manufacturers state values measured according to homologation standards (WLTP), which rarely correspond to the dynamics of these nearly three-ton behemoths, and certainly don't reflect the behavior of plug-in hybrids once the battery is depleted. For an objective comparison of nearly new used cars (focusing on roughly four-year-old vehicles, i.e., 1st generation from 2020–2022), we must consider long-term statistics from real drivers on community platforms like Spritmonitor.de in addition to factory data. These clearly show that the laws of physics cannot be cheated by any emission value label.

The interpretation of the data above clearly shows the different philosophies of the two brands. Bentley offers a much more diverse selection. The traditional Bentayga V8 engine can maintain a long-term average at a reasonable 13.0 l/100 km. For some, the real-world operation of the Bentayga Hybrid might be a surprising discovery. While the tables promise a consumption of 3.3 liters, if the system relies solely on the six-cylinder combustion engine with a depleted battery, consumption typically rises to 9 to 10 liters. (Historically, the unique and very efficient V8 Diesel version with consumption under 8 liters is also worth mentioning, but it is no longer found on the market for four-year-old cars). Conversely, Rolls-Royce makes absolutely no compromises with the first generation of the Cullinan (2020–2024) and bets on a single engine – the massive 6.8 V12 unit. This requires nearly 16 liters per hundred kilometers on average and has no problem significantly exceeding this value in heavy city traffic.

For a typical user, these numbers represent different approaches to using the car itself. If you spend a lot of time on morning commutes from the suburbs to the city center and have the option of daily charging, the Bentayga Hybrid is a great choice in terms of local costs and absolute silence. For highway mile-munchers traveling across Europe, the petrol Bentayga V8 is the ideal long-distance compromise. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan and, by extension, the twelve-cylinder Bentayga Speed, on the other hand, appeal to customers who don't have the word "compromise" in their vocabulary. Neither fuel consumption nor budget weighs as much for them as the absolute smoothness and effortless majestic pull of the twelve-cylinder, regardless of the driving situation.

Is fuel consumption even a deciding factor for a buyer choosing between these two cruisers? From a purely financial perspective, definitely not – owners generally don't track fuel bills. However, from the perspective of travel comfort and range, it can be a factor. The massive appetite of the twelve-cylinder Cullinan naturally means much more frequent visits to gas stations, which can unnecessarily fragment long highway journeys. If you value a long range on a single tank or the freedom of locally emission-free city driving, you will find more user flexibility in the range of nearly new Bentleys. Rolls-Royce, on the other hand, remains the ultimate choice where refueling is only a minor concern for a personal chauffeur.

Looking at the market for roughly four-year-old vehicles (model years 2021 to 2022), the distinct positioning of the two British automakers is fully revealed. Although both cars compete in the top league of luxury SUVs, their second-hand price levels and the extent to which they retain their value differ vastly.

Bentley Bentayga (2021–2022 models)

The Bentayga underwent a significant facelift in 2020, meaning that roughly four-year-old cars already feature the more modern bodywork and redesigned infotainment. These models are becoming an exceptionally attractive choice on the used car market, as they have already moved past their steepest percentage drop in price.

• Price range: Typically ranges from €165,000 to €226,000 depending on the specific market and the vehicle's condition.
• What determines the price: The most affordable on the market tend to be the classic V8 versions or plug-in hybrid variants. Top-tier twelve-cylinder models (W12), Speed versions, or cars loaded with extras from the Mulliner bespoke division hold their original price significantly better.
• Depreciation: Bentley produces many more cars than the Goodwood-based manufacturer. Sharing certain structural elements within the group and higher volumes on the used market result in slightly faster depreciation. For a second-hand buyer, however, this is great news.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan (2021–2022 models)

The Cullinan is the absolutely uncompromising ruler of the market, regardless of age. Its first generation maintains a massive level of prestige, which is directly reflected in the astronomical sums sellers demand even for four-year-old units. A slightly used Cullinan easily costs as much as two Bentaygas of the same age combined.

• Price range: Commonly starts around €350,000 and smoothly climbs to €453,000.
• What determines the price: Every Rolls-Royce is a unique creation made through the Bespoke program at the original owner's request. However, the Black Badge versions are valued most highly. These models, focused on a darker aesthetic and featuring a slightly higher output from the twelve-cylinder engine, are among the most expensive family vehicles you can buy on the market.
• Depreciation: Extremely slow. Its status as the ultimate social symbol and very limited production capacities mean that demand for the Cullinan remains huge even on the used market, keeping its prices very high.

Overview Comparison (cars approx. 4 years old)

Reviews of premium SUVs commonly begin with a general statement about earning five-star ratings from the independent organization Euro NCAP. At the same time, it is always appropriate to emphasize the context and the year of testing. Testing protocols are constantly evolving and becoming stricter – today's standards include complex frontal crash simulations, sophisticated cyclist detection, and evaluation of crisis scenarios at intersections. Percentage results from different years are therefore not directly comparable. In the case of the ultra-luxury car category, however, one fundamental difference comes into play: due to the astronomical purchase price and low production volumes, these models do not head to the laboratories for crash tests at all.

Bentley Bentayga (typically represented on the used car market by models after the 2020 facelift) has never officially undergone Euro NCAP tests. However, those interested in this luxury model need not have the slightest concern regarding safety. The Bentayga utilizes an exceptionally robust group platform shared with vehicles like the Audi Q7 or Porsche Cayenne, which have comfortably earned the full five-star rating in the past. Furthermore, Bentley complements this foundation with the top-tier safety package Bentley Safeguard Plus. This includes smart automatic emergency braking with higher efficiency, intersection assist, and emergency evasive maneuver assist. The night vision system is also very helpful. For a four-year-old used car, the vehicle still offers a highly up-to-date standard of technology.

The majestic Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the long-reigning king of luxury SUVs (on the four-year-old used car market, we are talking about model years around 2022), is in exactly the same position regarding crash tests. Given its extremely narrow focus, it remains uncertified. However, the car is built on a unique and massive aluminum architecture ("Architecture of Luxury") and fully benefits from advanced technologies belonging to the parent BMW Group. The Cullinan offers excellent active and passive safety features, from intelligent lane-keeping assist and speed limit monitoring to an infrared thermal camera that detects pedestrians and wildlife in total darkness well in advance.

Although the table of specific percentage results from the laboratories is understandably empty, from a safety perspective, nothing can be faulted in either vehicle. The Bentley Bentayga feels slightly more modern thanks to a significantly broader involvement of active assistants and semi-independent driving systems. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, on the other hand, builds on a massive, almost impenetrable aura combined with top-tier electronics that discreetly help avoid a collision. Both giants thus offer their occupants the maximum available protection on the roads.

In addition to standard equipment, each of these models offers something truly exceptional, and both British vehicles approach the definition of absolute luxury with their own, easily recognizable philosophy. Here is an overview of the unique features and technologies that set these two SUVs apart in everyday life and during extraordinary events.

Bentley Bentayga: Technological Sophistication and Sporting Spirit

• Chassis and Stabilization: The Bentley Dynamic Ride system utilizes a 48V network for active anti-roll bars. This system can counteract body roll within milliseconds, giving the massive SUV unexpectedly agile and sporty driving characteristics without compromising on comfort.
• Wide Range of Powertrains: Unlike its British rival, the Bentayga offers great variability in power units. Customers can choose from an efficient plug-in hybrid V6 to a dynamic V8 (especially in the sporty S version) to the iconic W12 twelve-cylinder in the prestigious Speed version.
• Controls for Rear Passengers: Rear-seat passengers have a removable 5-inch tablet (Touch Screen Remote) at their disposal. This allows for convenient control of the air conditioning, blinds, seat heating and ventilation, or advanced ambient lighting right from the palm of their hand.
• Masterful Audio: The optional Naim for Bentley audio system with 1,780 W and 20 speakers offers one of the clearest musical experiences on the market. It includes, among other things, active bass transducers built directly under the front seats.
• Interior Details: Traditional British elegance is represented by the classic analog Breitling clock in the center of the dashboard, which can be replaced upon request with a timepiece inlaid with gemstones or mother-of-pearl as part of the bespoke Mulliner program.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan: Absolute Opulence and Unrivaled Serenity

• Iconic Rear Seating: Perhaps the most famous piece of equipment is the Viewing Suite. At the touch of a button, two leather chairs and a small cocktail table slide out electrically from the luggage compartment floor. It is an ideal solution for watching sporting events, horse polo, or just the sunset.
• Magic Carpet Ride: The Magic Carpet Ride technology made the entire brand famous. Air suspension uses cameras to scan the road ahead and adjusts the stiffness of the dampers in real-time so that passengers do not feel a single pothole.
• Glass Luggage Partition: In the four-seat configuration, the passenger cabin is separated from the luggage compartment by a massive glass partition. This solution not only extremely reduces noise in the interior but also maintains a stable temperature in the cabin when the driver opens the tailgate.
• Bespoke Modules: The trunk can be equipped with a so-called Recreation Module – a custom-designed electrically sliding drawer. This can be factory-equipped with anything from a picnic set and champagne glasses to hunting gear or photography accessories.
• Everyday Comfort and Details: An iconic feature is the giant Shooting Star Headliner with thousands of hand-woven optical fibers simulating the night sky, including shooting stars. Also standard are Teflon umbrellas hidden (and automatically dried) in the rear doors and fully electric closing of all doors at the touch of a button from inside the vehicle.

The Bentley Bentayga represents the ideal choice for those who demand uncompromising British luxury but still want to enjoy the driving itself and more agile dynamics. Thanks to a wider range of engines and a slightly more accessible second-hand price tag, it is a more versatile and everyday-usable super-luxury SUV.

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is the embodiment of the absolute pinnacle of automotive luxury, targeting customers who demand maximum isolation from the outside world and the highest possible social status. It will primarily suit those who prefer absolute silence and comfort, are not interested in sporty driving, and do not mind extreme maintenance costs.

Based on long-term user evaluations, service reports, recall campaigns, and findings from professional inspections of used cars, we have prepared a detailed overview of the most common problems you may encounter with these two luxury SUVs.

Although the Bentley Bentayga shares an advanced platform with premium Volkswagen Group models (Audi Q8, Porsche Cayenne), its immense weight and complex technology can require specific and very expensive maintenance for higher-mileage units.

• Engine and Drivetrain: In the popular V8 models, occasional coolant leaks can occur in the thermostat area. The flagship W12 engines are mechanically very robust, but any potential resealing or repair is very time-consuming and financially demanding due to the extreme lack of space under the hood. For plug-in hybrid versions (PHEV), watch out for the condition of the charging modules and high-voltage system error messages.
• Chassis and Brakes: Due to the vehicle's high weight (often over 2.4 tons), brake discs, pads, and tires wear out very quickly. After several years of operation, the air suspension may suffer from compressor wear or minor air leaks at the bellows valves.
• Electronics and Infotainment: Owners occasionally complain about the main multimedia system screen freezing and occasional "false" error messages from parking sensors and assistance systems. Most of these issues are successfully resolved by regular software updates.
• Interior: Exceptionally, problems may arise with the mechanism of the electrically folding and sliding seats in the second row, or occasional creaking in the area of the large panoramic sunroof.

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan represents the absolute pinnacle of automotive luxury, built on its own "Architecture of Luxury," while the powertrain and electronic systems are closely based on the best components from parent company BMW. Reliability is high, but the complexity of the unique equipment features requires maximum attention.

• Engine and Drivetrain: The twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter twelve-cylinder is designed for extreme longevity and does not suffer from serious chronic defects. However, on higher-mileage vehicles, minor oil leaks through the valve cover gaskets or failures of lambda probes and sensors in the emission system may appear.
• Chassis: The Cullinan weighs nearly 2.7 tons. This leads not only to an enormous load on tires and brakes but also stresses the front axle components. The complex air suspension, famous for the "Magic Carpet Ride" effect, includes a sophisticated system of cameras that read the road – a calibration failure or an air leak from the bellows means an astronomically expensive repair.
• Electronics and Bodywork: Rolls-Royce features unusually complex mechanisms. The electrically closing and opening rear doors (so-called "suicide doors") and the retractable Spirit of Ecstasy statuette have their own electric motors, which can seize, malfunction, or require expensive replacement of control modules.
• Infotainment: Although the system is reliably built on the BMW iDrive base, the custom-tailored graphical environment and complicated entertainment centers for rear passengers can occasionally suffer from poor contacts in the wiring integrated into the seats.

When buying a used car, a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle is key. Here are several specific points to focus on for these two models, which the certified CarAudit service can help you verify:

When choosing a Bentley Bentayga:

• Air suspension and compressor functionality: During the inspection, check if the vehicle is leaning to one side after being parked. Air leaks from the bellows or faults in the valve block occur quite frequently in four-year-old used cars and are expensive to repair. During the test drive, observe whether the change in ride height occurs smoothly and without excessive compressor noise.
• Engine performance and leaks: For the massive petrol V8 and W12 units, look for signs of coolant leaks (most commonly around the water pump) or oil seepage near the turbocharger inlet pipes. For plug-in hybrid versions, verify the estimated electric range and service history – earlier models may have suffered from software bugs in the charging module.
• Infotainment speed and stability: Complex onboard electronics can exhibit lag or outages. Carefully test the loading speed of the parking camera, touchscreen responsiveness, and seamless phone pairing via Bluetooth. System freezes often require a software reflash, or in worse cases, an expensive control unit replacement.
• Interior quality and wear: Despite the extreme luxury, lighter interiors may show premature wear on the leather of the steering wheel or seats. During the drive, mute the radio and listen for any creaking from the center console. Also, check the smooth operation of all electric memory seat controls.

When choosing a Rolls-Royce Cullinan:

• Flawless "Magic Carpet Ride" (air suspension): The magic of driving a Cullinan lies in absolute isolation from the road. If you notice the suspension bottoming out over bumps or the car swaying asymmetrically, it could indicate failing air struts, malfunctioning height sensors, or a clogged compressor. These repairs can run into hundreds of thousands of crowns.
• Battery health and parasitic power draw: The extreme number of electronic and comfort systems places huge demands on the 12V network. Cullinans that sit for long periods without being connected to a trickle charger drain the battery quickly. Watch for error messages on the dashboard related to low voltage, which often cause chain failures of cameras or erratic behavior of assistance systems.
• ZF gearbox smoothness: The eight-speed automatic in this model is specially tuned for completely imperceptible shifts. During the test drive, the transmission must not jerk in any way when pulling away or downshifting. Any hesitation indicates neglected oil changes or the need for a control module software reset.
• Extreme wear of brake components: Due to a curb weight exceeding 2.6 tons, the brakes take an enormous beating. When braking from higher speeds, watch closely for any vibrations in the steering wheel or brake pedal. Warped discs or excessively worn pads mean an immediate need for service, the cost of which for genuine parts can equal the price of a small used car.
• Noises from the rear cabin: Historically, Rolls-Royce had to address loose rear seatbelt mounting bolts in some vehicles. During the test drive, sit in the back and ensure you don't hear any subtle knocking or rattling from the rear seat area or the trunk – in a car focused on perfect acoustic silence, every audible imperfection is a sign of a potential assembly issue.

Sources: ADAC, garaz.cz, aktualne.cz, motorvize.cz, autosalon.tv, autotrip.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.