Bentley has confirmed reports that it has started working on the development of a new SUV model, which is expected to be released in 2014.

Bentley CEO Wolfgang Durheimer,, who took charge of the company along with Bugatti six months ago, said that he is planning to transform the company’s fortunes with a significant increase in model offerings and sales volumes..

The company will focus on major innovations for the brand, new diesel and hybrid powertrains and return to racing besides developing a new four wheel drives SUV model.

Durheimer has said that the company is capable fo maintaining it exclusivity even by selling upto 30,000 cars a year.

The Bentley SUV will be based on the architecture of the next generation Audi Q7, Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne. The model will most likely feature 6.0-litre 621bhp W12 petrol engine from the Continental Supersports and a version of the 6.0-litre V12 diesel engine from the Audi Q7.

The VW board is yet to approve the new SUV model, but experts believe that it will get a green light soon. Durheimer told a publication that his company is “deeply involved” with the design and engineering of the future SUV. “I have great faith in the SUV market and it’s here to stay” Durheimer said.