Bentley has changed considerably over the last couple of decades. Gone is the high-end British luxury car manufacturer that hand-built sedans and lots of bits of timber to create luxury transportation in the early 2000s. Now, Bentley builds high-performance grand tourers based upon sophisticated VW group platforms in both a sedan and SUV. When it comes to understanding your Bentley there are few things as important as what chassis – or platform – code that is fitted under the hand-built exterior body. Chassis codes represent platform codes, where the original platform determines everything from the engine layout to drivetrain, wiring and electronics compatibility.
Below you will find a breakdown of every Bentley chassis code to be used in North America, sorted by Years | Model | Platform Code.
Bentley Body & Platform Codes (North American Market)
Arnage / Brooklands / Azure (Pre-VW)
Years | Model | Platform Code |
1998–2009 | Arnage | SZ (Updated V8 chassis) |
2006–2011 | Azure Convertible | SZ-based |
2008–2011 | Brooklands Coupe | SZ-based |
Note: These were developed before VW ownership, retaining a traditional Bentley chassis and 6.75L V8.
Continental GT / GTC / Flying Spur
Years | Model | Platform Code |
2004–2011 | Continental GT Gen 1 | D1 (VW Phaeton platform) |
2012–2018 | Continental GT Gen 2 | D1 facelifted / PL62 |
2019–present | Continental GT Gen 3 | MSB (shared with Porsche Panamera) |
2006–2013 | Flying Spur Gen 1 | D1 (long wheelbase) |
2014–2018 | Flying Spur Gen 2 | PL62 |
2019–present | Flying Spur Gen 3 | MSB |
Bentayga (SUV)
Years | Model | Platform Code |
2016–2020 | Bentayga Gen 1 | MLB Evo (shared with Audi Q7) |
2021–present | Bentayga Gen 2 | MLB Evo (facelifted) |
Bentley Hybrid & Electric Platforms
Years | Model | Platform Code |
2022–present | Bentayga Hybrid | MLB Evo (PHEV Variant) |
2025+ | All-Electric Bentley (upcoming) | SSP or PPE (expected) |
Bentley’s first full EV will likely debut on the PPE or SSP platform, shared with Porsche and Audi.
Rare & Specialty Models
Years | Model | Platform Code |
2008–2009 | Bentley Zagato GTZ | D1 (coachbuilt) |
2013–2016 | Bentley Grand Convertible (concept/limited) | MSB (variant) |
The Importance of Bentley Platform Codes
Repair Plans are Altered: Understanding whether you are working on a D1-based or MSB-based Bentley will change your entire approach with everything from suspension parts to diagnostic software.
Parts Compatibility: Bentleys have shared componentry with VW, Audi and Porsche platforms in the engine bay; however, any shared part only applies when the platforms are the same.
Collector Perspective: Older SZ-based cars will have very different valuations and expectations for servicing, compared with newer MLS vs MSB-based cars.
Tuning and Performance: As an enthusiast, knowing your platform will open the possibilities of engine tuning, brake upgrades and wheel fitments.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are driving around in an iconic W12-powered GT or a V8 Bentayga, it is always a benefit to know where your Bentley originates from, empowering you to maintain it correctly, tune it appropriately and value the engineering heritage of what’s under the hood.
Our specialists are trained on Bentley platforms, from the legendary Arnage to the new MSB-based Continental GT. Book a luxury level service appointment and invest in the level of service that your Bentley truly deserves.
