The short answer
Based on available data, the Bentley Bentayga comes out ahead of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Overall
Owner sentiment is mixed, heavily dependent on the specific powertrain and the owner's priorities. The vehicle is widely praised for its exceptional comfort, commanding road presence, and high-quality interior fit and finish, with one owner describing it as "the most comfortable car I've ever owned." It is frequently positioned as a more driver-focused and performance-oriented alternative to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. However, significant and very frequent criticism is directed at extremely high ownership costs, including exorbitant repair bills, expensive annual maintenance (estimated at $1,250+ USD, potentially doubling with high mileage), and catastrophic depreciation.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Feedback indicates trade-offs: the V8 engine (including Azure and S trims) is noted for being "bullet proof" in terms of reliability relative to other Bentleys, while the W12 is praised for power and refinement but flagged for extreme repair costs.
Known issues
Overall
\nOwner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with the Cullinan consistently described as the benchmark for ultimate luxury, refinement, and quietness in the SUV segment. It is repeatedly cited as the quietest vehicle owners have experienced, with its cabin insulation and ride quality described as "surreal" and surpassing nearly all competitors. The vehicle is positioned as a tool for unparalleled comfort and isolation, particularly for passengers.
Best version to buy
\nBlack Badge variant. This version is specifically mentioned by owners as a favorite for personal driving, suggesting it may offer a slightly more dynamic or exclusive character compared to the standard model.\n\nRecommended Configurations\nInsufficient owner data available to detail specific recommended configurations beyond the Black Badge trim.
Known issues
The verdict
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Bentley Bentayga, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Rolls-Royce Cullinan are a dealbreaker, the Bentley Bentayga is worth a closer look instead.
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Which is more reliable, the Bentley Bentayga or the Rolls-Royce Cullinan?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Rolls-Royce Cullinan than the Bentley Bentayga. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Bentley Bentayga or the Rolls-Royce Cullinan?
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan seats more passengers than the Bentley Bentayga on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Bentley Bentayga is classed as a SUV, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Bentley Bentayga or the Rolls-Royce Cullinan?
The Bentley Bentayga is more fuel-efficient on paper: 14.7 L/100km combined versus 15 L/100km for the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Bentley Bentayga or the Rolls-Royce Cullinan?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Bentley Bentayga than the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. See the known issues comparison above.