The AMG Performance Steering Wheel in the W465 G-Class is designed to blend high-performance functionality with luxury, offering a unique driving experience. When compared to Bentley’s SUV steering wheels, particularly those in models like the Bentley Bentayga, there are distinct differences in how each brand approaches the integration of luxury and performance.

Key Differences and Enhancements:

1. Material Quality and Craftsmanship:

• AMG Performance Steering Wheel (W465):
  • The W465 AMG Performance Steering Wheel is crafted with premium materials like Nappa leather, Alcantara, and carbon fiber. These materials are not only performance-driven (for grip and durability) but also exude a high-end, luxurious feel. The craftsmanship emphasizes precision stitching and distinct AMG branding, showcasing a blend of luxury and motorsport heritage.
  • The carbon fiber accents and metallic paddle shifters give the steering wheel a modern, performance-oriented aesthetic, perfect for those seeking a high-performance yet stylish interior.
• Bentley’s SUV Steering Wheels (e.g., Bentayga):
  • Bentley’s steering wheels are typically covered in luxury leather (often Hide or Contrast Leather), with optional wood veneers or metal trims for added sophistication. The focus is primarily on refined luxury, with materials like polished wood and metallic finishes giving the wheel an elegant and opulent look. The craftsmanship is meant to reflect the luxury lifestyle and meticulous attention to detail that Bentley represents.
  • Bentley steering wheels typically emphasize comfort and style, with less of a focus on performance-driven design elements compared to the AMG wheel.

2. Functional Performance Features:

• AMG Performance Steering Wheel (W465):
  • The AMG Performance Wheel is not just a luxury element but a performance tool. It comes with integrated paddle shifters, customizable buttons for vehicle controls (like drive modes), and even LED lights for real-time shift indications. This makes it highly functional for driving enthusiasts who want to extract the best performance from their vehicle. The flat-bottomed design adds to the sporty feel, especially during aggressive driving.
  • The AMG wheel is also designed to provide a more tactile driving experience, with a focus on performance driving, particularly in high-performance modes, off-road, and track scenarios.
• Bentley’s SUV Steering Wheel:
  • While Bentley’s steering wheels are luxurious, they focus more on comfort and ease of use rather than sporty functionality. The steering wheel in the Bentayga provides features like heated steering, multi-functional buttons, and sometimes adaptive cruise control, but these are typically centered around luxury, convenience, and comfort rather than performance metrics or immediate driving feedback.
  • Bentley steering wheels have a more traditional design aimed at comfort for long-distance cruising, making them slightly less dynamic in terms of performance features compared to AMG.

3. Technology Integration:

• AMG Performance Steering Wheel (W465):
  • The AMG steering wheel integrates seamlessly with advanced AMG telematics, including real-time performance metrics (like G-Force, lap times, and other performance data). There are also options for integrating vehicle settings, such as suspension modes or dynamic driving modes, through the steering wheel’s controls, making it a more active part of the driving experience.
  • The wheel is designed to offer an immersive connection to the vehicle’s performance capabilities, providing a more dynamic, interactive experience when compared to Bentley’s offerings.
• Bentley’s SUV Steering Wheel:
  • Bentley’s steering wheels also feature integration with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control, and often incorporate steering wheel-mounted controls for things like the infotainment system or ambient lighting settings. However, they are more focused on comfort, ease of use, and luxury driving features rather than performance-driven metrics.
  • There is less emphasis on real-time performance adjustments or driving-related telemetry, making it more suited for long drives in comfort rather than performance-oriented situations.

4. Luxury and Customization:

• AMG Performance Steering Wheel (W465):
  • Customization is key for AMG, and the steering wheel can be tailored to match the vehicle’s interior with options like different stitching colors, material combinations, and even personalized AMG logos. This allows for a more personalized and high-performance feel that also complements the overall luxury aesthetic of the G-Class.
  • The carbon fiber or matte finishes give the wheel a more technical, motorsport-inspired luxury that enhances the driver’s connection to the vehicle.
• Bentley’s SUV Steering Wheel:
  • Bentley’s luxury options, such as unique wood trims, hand-stitched leather, and bespoke color options, create a highly elegant atmosphere. However, Bentley offers less of a focus on customization options that target the performance nature of driving. The customization options are more focused on providing a high-end luxury ambiance rather than performance-related aesthetics.

5. Driving Experience:

• AMG Performance Steering Wheel (W465):
  • The AMG steering wheel enhances the driving experience by offering more sporty, performance-oriented feedback. Whether on-road or off-road, it provides superior control, tactile feedback, and a dynamic connection to the vehicle’s systems.
  • It's designed for the driver who values both luxury and performance, especially with off-road capabilities that emphasize driver engagement.
• Bentley’s SUV Steering Wheel:
  • The Bentley wheel is designed to offer an ultra-comfortable driving experience for those who prioritize long-distance cruising and luxury over dynamic handling. While the performance is certainly present, it’s more about smoothness and comfort, making the Bentley steering wheel more suited for a relaxed, elegant driving experience.

Conclusion:

The AMG Performance Steering Wheel in the W465 G-Class stands out by combining high-performance functionality with luxurious materials, making it ideal for those who value both driving engagement and luxury features. It is more dynamic, customizable, and performance-oriented compared to the Bentley Bentayga’s steering wheel, which is tailored more toward luxury, comfort, and elegance. The AMG steering wheel offers a better connection to performance metrics, while Bentley focuses on a refined, comfort-driven driving experience.