2018 Bentley Bentayga 6.0L Petrol · 1 MDS

Running a 2018 Bentayga with the 6.0-litre W12 petrol is a significant commitment. Real-world fuel economy is likely to fall between 18 and 22 mpg depending on use, which on 5,000 miles per year equates to roughly £3,500-£4,200 in fuel at current prices. Road tax sits in a high band for a 5950cc petrol engine of this age, and insurance will be expensive — these vehicles typically reside in group 50, the highest tier. Annual insurance premiums commonly exceed £1,500 and can be considerably higher for younger drivers.

Servicing and maintenance costs are where the Bentayga really bites: an annual main dealer service can cost £1,000-£1,800, and major items such as timing chain service, air suspension components, and brake overhauls can run into several thousand pounds. Budget-conscious buyers may consider specialist independent workshops, though parts remain costly. Overall, expect annual running costs substantially above mainstream luxury SUVs, with depreciation also worth factoring given this is now an eight-year-old vehicle.

Although this particular MOT record shows no defects or advisories across five tests, the model aggregate data highlights tyres as the leading cause of MOT failures. Inspect all four tyres (and the spare if applicable) for tread depth, even wear, brand consistency, and any sidewall damage — replacement tyres are a significant cost on a vehicle this heavy. Next, verify that the registration plate and windscreen washer system are functioning correctly, as both appear in the model's top failure reasons, and check for any windscreen chips that could become MOT failures.

For a W12-powered Bentayga specifically, listen on cold start for any unusual rattles that could indicate timing chain wear, and check for oil leaks around the engine and from the air suspension struts, a known weak point on these vehicles. Inspect the underside for corrosion or damage to undertrays, examine all four brake discs for lipping and corrosion, and ensure the electronic systems (infotainment, suspension ride height adjustment, all-wheel-drive warnings) operate correctly. Given that MOT history cannot confirm mechanical soundness of components not tested, a specialist compression test and diagnostic scan are strongly advisable before purchase.