How Much Is a Bentley in the Uk

Owning a Bentley in the UK is a symbol of prestige, but it comes with a hefty price tag. Prices start from around £150,000 for the Bentayga SUV and can exceed £300,000 for fully customised models like the Continental GT or Flying Spur.

Key Takeaways

• Entry-level Bentleys start at £150,000+: The Bentayga SUV is the most affordable model, making it the gateway to Bentley ownership in the UK.
• Luxury models exceed £300,000: High-end versions of the Continental GT, Flying Spur, and Mulsanne can cost over £300,000 with custom options.
• On-road costs add 20% or more: Road tax, insurance, and registration can significantly increase the total cost of ownership.
• Customisation dramatically raises the price: Personalised interiors, paint, and tech upgrades can add £50,000 or more to the base price.
• Used Bentleys offer savings: Pre-owned models can be 30–50% cheaper, though maintenance and depreciation should be considered.
• Fuel and maintenance are expensive: Expect high running costs due to powerful engines and premium servicing requirements.
• Financing and leasing options are available: Many buyers use PCP or lease plans to manage the high upfront cost.

Introduction: The Allure of Bentley in the UK

There’s something undeniably magnetic about a Bentley. Whether it’s the deep growl of a twin-turbo W12 engine, the hand-stitched leather interior, or the iconic winged “B” badge gleaming in the sunlight, Bentleys represent the pinnacle of British luxury motoring. For many, owning one isn’t just about transportation—it’s about status, craftsmanship, and a legacy that spans over a century. But with such prestige comes a price. So, how much is a Bentley in the UK?

The short answer? A lot. But the long answer is more nuanced. Bentley prices in the UK vary widely depending on the model, trim level, customisation, and whether you’re buying new or used. From the rugged yet refined Bentayga SUV to the sleek Continental GT coupe and the stately Flying Spur sedan, each model caters to a different kind of luxury driver. And while the base prices are already steep, the real cost often comes from optional extras, taxes, insurance, and maintenance.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Bentley pricing in the UK. Whether you’re a first-time luxury car buyer or a seasoned collector, we’ll help you understand what you’re paying for—and whether it’s worth it.

Bentley Model Range and Starting Prices in the UK

Bentley offers a diverse lineup of vehicles, each designed to deliver a unique blend of performance, comfort, and opulence. As of 2024, the core models available in the UK include the Bentayga, Continental GT, and Flying Spur. Each comes in multiple variants, with prices rising significantly as you move up the trim ladder.

The Bentayga: Bentley’s Luxury SUV

The Bentayga is Bentley’s answer to the high-end SUV market, and it’s currently the most affordable way to own a new Bentley in the UK. The entry-level Bentayga V8 starts at approximately £150,000. This model features a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, all-wheel drive, and a plush interior with premium materials like leather, wood veneers, and metal trim.

For those seeking more power, the Bentayga Speed—powered by a 6.0-litre W12 engine—kicks off at around £210,000. It delivers over 600 horsepower and a top speed of 190 mph, making it one of the fastest SUVs on the road. The Bentayga Hybrid, Bentley’s eco-friendly option, starts at about £165,000, offering a balance of performance and efficiency with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The Continental GT: The Grand Tourer

The Continental GT is Bentley’s flagship coupe, blending timeless design with cutting-edge technology. The base Continental GT V8 starts at roughly £180,000. It features a 4.0-litre V8 engine, all-wheel drive, and a luxurious cabin with advanced infotainment and driver assistance systems.

Step up to the Continental GT Speed, and you’re looking at a starting price of around £230,000. This model boasts the mighty W12 engine, delivering 650 horsepower and a 0–60 mph time of under 3.6 seconds. The convertible GTC versions are slightly more expensive, with the V8 starting at £195,000 and the Speed at £245,000.

The Flying Spur: The Luxury Sedan

The Flying Spur is Bentley’s four-door saloon, designed for those who want the comfort of a chauffeur-driven experience without sacrificing driving dynamics. The base Flying Spur V8 starts at about £170,000, offering a refined ride, spacious rear seats, and a host of high-tech features.

The Flying Spur Speed, with its W12 engine, begins at approximately £220,000. It’s one of the most powerful sedans in the world, capable of reaching 207 mph. The Flying Spur Hybrid, introduced to meet growing demand for sustainable luxury, starts at around £180,000 and offers a quieter, more efficient drive.

Understanding the True Cost: On-Road Price and Additional Fees

When you see a Bentley advertised at £150,000, that’s usually the “list price” or “OTR” (on-the-road) price before any extras. But the final amount you pay can be significantly higher once you factor in taxes, insurance, and optional features.

Vehicle Excise Duty (Road Tax)

In the UK, all cars are subject to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), commonly known as road tax. For new cars, the first-year rate is based on CO2 emissions. Bentleys, with their large engines and high emissions, fall into the highest tax band.

For example, a new Bentayga V8 emits around 296 g/km of CO2, resulting in a first-year VED of £2,605. In subsequent years, most Bentleys are subject to the standard £180 annual rate, plus an additional £390 “premium vehicle” surcharge if the car’s list price exceeds £40,000—which all Bentleys do. This means you’ll pay £570 per year in road tax after the first year.

Insurance Costs

Insuring a Bentley is no small expense. Due to the high value, performance capabilities, and repair costs, insurance premiums are among the highest in the UK. A 40-year-old driver with a clean record might pay between £3,000 and £6,000 annually for comprehensive cover on a Continental GT. Younger drivers or those with less experience could see premiums double or even triple.

Factors that influence insurance costs include the car’s value, engine size, security features, and your personal profile. Some insurers specialise in high-end vehicles and may offer better rates, but it’s wise to get multiple quotes and consider adding extras like breakdown cover and legal protection.

Registration and Delivery Fees

When you buy a new Bentley, you’ll also pay a registration fee (usually around £55) and a delivery fee, which can range from £1,000 to £2,000 depending on the dealer and location. These fees cover the cost of preparing the car, transporting it to the dealership, and handling paperwork.

Optional Extras and Customisation

This is where Bentley pricing can really spiral. Bentley offers an almost endless array of customisation options through its Mulliner division, the brand’s personalisation arm. Want diamond-quilted leather seats? That’s £5,000. A bespoke paint colour? Another £3,000–£10,000. A Naim for Bentley audio system? Add £6,000.

Other popular upgrades include:

– Mulliner driving specification (unique wheels, badging, interior trim): £10,000+
– Rear-seat entertainment system: £4,000
– Adaptive cruise control and night vision: £3,000–£5,000
– Carbon ceramic brakes: £15,000+

It’s not uncommon for buyers to spend an extra £50,000 or more on options, pushing a £180,000 Continental GT well over £230,000.

New vs. Used Bentley: Which Is Right for You?

While buying a new Bentley offers the latest technology, full warranty, and the joy of being the first owner, it comes with steep depreciation. A new Bentley can lose 20–30% of its value in the first year alone. That’s why many buyers consider pre-owned models.

Used Bentley Prices in the UK

A used Bentayga from 2020 with moderate mileage might cost between £100,000 and £130,000—roughly 30% less than a new one. A 2019 Continental GT V8 could be found for around £120,000, compared to £180,000 new. Older models, like the discontinued Mulsanne, can be even more affordable, with prices starting around £80,000 for well-maintained examples.

However, buying used comes with risks. Bentleys are complex machines with high maintenance costs. A major service can cost £2,000–£4,000, and repairs for the W12 engine or air suspension can run into the tens of thousands. It’s essential to have a pre-purchase inspection done by a specialist and to check the vehicle’s service history.

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Programs

Bentley offers a Certified Pre-Owned programme, which provides peace of mind for used car buyers. CPO vehicles undergo a rigorous 200-point inspection, come with a comprehensive warranty (usually 12–24 months), and include roadside assistance. While CPO cars are more expensive than private sales, they offer greater reliability and support.

Private Sales vs. Dealerships

Buying from a Bentley dealership ensures authenticity and after-sales support, but private sellers may offer lower prices. If you go the private route, always verify the car’s identity, check for outstanding finance, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

Running Costs: Fuel, Maintenance, and Servicing

Owning a Bentley isn’t just about the purchase price—it’s also about what it costs to keep it on the road. These vehicles are engineered for performance and luxury, which means higher running costs across the board.

Fuel Economy

Bentleys are not known for their fuel efficiency. The Bentayga V8 returns around 22–25 mpg on the combined cycle, while the W12 models struggle to reach 20 mpg. With petrol prices in the UK often exceeding £1.50 per litre, filling up a 90-litre tank can cost over £130. For frequent drivers, fuel costs can easily exceed £5,000 per year.

The hybrid models offer better efficiency, with the Bentayga Hybrid achieving around 80–100 mpg in electric mode for short distances. However, real-world economy often falls short of official figures, especially if the battery isn’t regularly charged.

Maintenance and Servicing

Bentley recommends servicing every 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. A standard service at an authorised dealer can cost between £800 and £1,500, depending on the model and required work. Major services, which include brake fluid changes, air filter replacements, and software updates, can cost £2,000 or more.

Parts are expensive, and labour rates at Bentley specialists are high—often £150–£200 per hour. Common issues include air suspension faults, turbocharger wear, and electrical glitches, all of which can be costly to fix.

Tires and Brakes

Bentleys use large, high-performance tires that wear quickly, especially if driven aggressively. A set of four Pirelli P Zero tires can cost £1,500–£2,000. Brake pads and discs also wear faster due to the car’s weight and power. Replacing the front brake discs and pads on a Continental GT can cost over £2,500.

Financing and Leasing Options

Given the high price of Bentleys, most buyers don’t pay cash. Instead, they use financing or leasing to spread the cost.

Personal Contract Purchase (PCP)

PCP is a popular financing option in the UK. You pay a deposit (usually 10–30%), followed by monthly payments over 2–4 years. At the end of the term, you can either pay a final “balloon payment” to own the car or return it and upgrade to a new model.

For example, a £180,000 Continental GT with a £50,000 deposit and a 48-month PCP plan might have monthly payments of £2,200. The balloon payment could be around £90,000. This option offers flexibility and lower monthly costs, but you don’t own the car unless you make the final payment.

Hire Purchase (HP)

With HP, you pay a deposit and fixed monthly payments until the car is fully paid off. Once the final payment is made, the car is yours. HP typically has higher monthly payments than PCP but no balloon payment at the end.

Leasing

Leasing allows you to drive a Bentley for a fixed period (usually 2–3 years) with lower monthly payments than buying. However, you don’t own the car, and there are mileage limits and wear-and-tear charges. Leasing is ideal for those who like to upgrade frequently and avoid long-term maintenance costs.

Is a Bentley Worth the Price?

So, after all this, the big question remains: is a Bentley worth it?

For some, the answer is a resounding yes. The craftsmanship, performance, and prestige are unmatched. Every detail—from the hand-assembled engine to the scent of the leather—is designed to delight. It’s not just a car; it’s a statement.

But for others, the cost may outweigh the benefits. The high purchase price, steep depreciation, and expensive running costs mean that Bentley ownership is a luxury few can sustain long-term. If you’re buying for investment, think again—Bentleys depreciate quickly, and even rare models rarely appreciate.

Ultimately, a Bentley is for those who value experience over economics. If you can afford it and truly appreciate the art of motoring, it’s one of the most rewarding cars you can own in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a new Bentley cost in the UK?

The starting price for a new Bentley in the UK is around £150,000 for the Bentayga V8 SUV. Higher-end models like the Continental GT Speed or Flying Spur Speed can exceed £230,000, and fully customised versions may cost over £300,000.

Are used Bentleys cheaper in the UK?

Yes, used Bentleys can be 30–50% cheaper than new ones. A 2020 Bentayga might cost £100,000–£130,000, compared to £150,000 new. However, maintenance and depreciation should be factored into the total cost.

What extra costs come with owning a Bentley in the UK?

Beyond the purchase price, owners face high road tax (£570/year after the first year), expensive insurance (£3,000–£6,000/year), fuel costs (£5,000+/year), and maintenance (£2,000–£4,000 per service).

Can I finance a Bentley in the UK?

Yes, most buyers use financing options like PCP, HP, or leasing. PCP plans offer lower monthly payments with a final balloon payment, while leasing allows you to drive a Bentley without owning it.

How much does it cost to maintain a Bentley?

Annual maintenance can cost £2,000–£4,000, depending on the model and usage. Major repairs, such as air suspension or turbo issues, can cost tens of thousands of pounds.

Is a Bentley a good investment?

No, Bentleys are not good investments. They depreciate quickly—often losing 20–30% of their value in the first year. They are best enjoyed for their luxury and performance, not as financial assets.