Bentley Integrates Artificial V8 Engine Sound into Upcoming Electric SUV

The silent and smooth ride of electric vehicles has become particularly appealing to luxury automakers. Following the release of the Rolls-Royce Spectre, Cadillac Celestiq, and Mercedes EQS Maybach, British manufacturer Bentley—part of the Volkswagen Auto Group—is now preparing to solidify its position in the segment. The company is officially gearing up for the debut of its new model, the 2027 Bentley Torcal.

As reported by The Verge, the publication has already had the opportunity to take a brief test drive in a camouflaged, pre-production prototype. The Torcal is a spacious, large-scale SUV that shares its platform with the electrified Porsche Cayenne. However, Bentley engineers have not focused solely on silence and electric dynamics; they have opted for an unusual compromise to define the vehicle's character.

Traditional Sound in a New Era

Bentley is attempting to find a balance between the authenticity of an electric vehicle and the brand's traditional DNA. To achieve this, the new Torcal integrates artificial, synthesized V8 engine acoustics. The manufacturer expects this feature to appeal to drivers who miss the aggressive sound and emotional feedback characteristic of internal combustion engines, even in the electric era.

Although the primary advantages of EVs are considered to be absolute silence and the absence of vibration, buyers of high-end sports and luxury models often complain about the lack of sound effects. The Bentley Torcal was designed specifically to address this challenge.

The model's official world debut is scheduled for the end of this month, where Bentley will publicly disclose the vehicle's full technical specifications, power output, and interior details.