Bentley will aim to break the SUV record with its maiden Pikes Peak entry in June

Bentley will compete in the 96th running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb for the first time with its Bentayga Sports Utility Vehicle on June 24, aiming to ascend the famous course faster than any SUV before. The current production SUV record is held by the Range Rover Sport, which completed the course in 12 minutes 35.61 seconds in 2013.

The W12-engined, four-wheel drive 600bhp Bentayga will tackle the 12.42 mile course and its 156 corners with Bentley’s Crewe-based motor sport department taking charge of set-up.

“Since its launch, the Bentayga has set the luxury SUV benchmark with its unique combination of bespoke British craftsmanship, performance and grand touring ability,” said director of motor sport Brian Gush. “We hope to set another benchmark at the 2018 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb by conquering the most demanding mountain road course in the world.”

The driver of the record-hunting Bentayga will be announced in due course.