A select few luxury sedans embody the plush comfort expected when investing hundreds of thousands into a high-end grand tourer. These elegantly crafted vehicles provide a serene ride, whisking passengers away in relaxation while effortlessly reaching high speeds on the Autobahn when the journey concludes. The latest Bentley Flying Spur continues this tradition without straying from the model’s renowned reputation for transcontinental grace.
In light of the often repetitive nature of automotive specifications reported in the media, we’ve compiled a list of five standout features of the all-new Bentley Flying Spur that are sure to impress your friends and family. For those who prefer intricate details, feel free to dive deeper into the Flying Spur’s engineering marvels in The Skinny section.
5.) The “Flying B” Returns with a Fresh Design
The Flying B serves as Bentley’s equivalent to the Rolls-Royce’s Spirit of Ecstasy. This hood ornament emerges from the grille below in a dramatic fashion, and the design has been entirely revamped for the new Flying Spur—the first redesign since the advent of Bentley’s post-modern era.
4.) Ultimate Customization Options
While all Bentleys can be personalized according to customer preferences, the Flying Spur takes it a step further with the option to utilize the brand’s Mulliner operation, allowing every buyer to design a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle. According to Bentley, “From simple requests like monogrammed upholstery to intricate bespoke body modifications that require the expertise of established coachbuilders, the skilled Mulliner craftsmen create luxury tailored to every taste and perfection.”
3.) Fun Driving Dynamics Meet Luxury
To ensure the nearly 5,361-pound grand tourer handles effortlessly on the road, Bentley has equipped the Flying Spur with an All-Wheel Steering system borrowed from high-end sports models like Porsches, Lamborghinis, and Bugattis. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels, effectively shortening the vehicle’s long wheelbase. Conversely, at higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in unison with the front for improved stability.
2.) A Dream for Audiophiles
The standard audio setup in the Flying Spur is impressive—featuring a 650-watt, 10-speaker arrangement that suffices for most. Yet, true to Bentley’s ethos of exceptionalism, buyers can choose to upgrade to either a 1,500-watt, 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen system with illuminated grilles or a top-tier 2,200-watt, 19-speaker system from Naim.
1.) The Flying Spur is a High-Speed Marvel
At the core of the Bentley Flying Spur lies a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W-12 engine that delivers a staggering 626 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. Paired with Bentley’s dual-clutch 8-speed transmission, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds. If the driver wishes—and has the opportunity—this luxury sedan can reach a top speed of 207 mph.
The Skinny
Riding in the back seats of a Flying Spur gives a sense of aristocracy—evoking feelings of privilege, confidence, and power. The latest Flying Spur adheres to this notion, merging flawless design with the kind of old-world comfort expected from such a high-caliber automobile.
Built on the same aluminum and composite, 48V electronic chassis as the Continental GT, the Flying Spur has been designed to be spacious and dignified. Unlike the two-door Continental GT, which lacks room for adult passengers in the rear, the Flying Spur’s wheelbase has been extended by 5.1 inches, with an overall length increase of nearly 20 inches.
The interior is a luxurious haven featuring rich wood veneers, machined aluminum, hand-stitched quilted leather seats, and bronze switchgear, all powered by cutting-edge technology. The seating—both front and rear—boasts a unique “twin-flute” design, complete with heating, cooling, multi-mode massage options, adjustable bolsters, and extensive customization to ensure an ideal fit for each passenger. Bentley’s innovative three-dimensional leather, which incorporates traditional stitching with embroidery, is also available to customers.
The Rotating Display first introduced with the Continental GT has made its way into the Flying Spur, featuring a 12.3-inch infotainment screen that can rotate out of sight, revealing a clock or a purely wooden dashboard—offering what Bentley describes as a “digital detox.” Customers also have the option for a full-length “glass-to-glass” panoramic sunroof, complete with a color-matched Alcantara blind for ample shade.
And let’s not forget the engine.
A vehicle of the Flying Spur’s prestige warrants only the finest, which is why Bentley has equipped it with a formidable twin-turbocharged W-12 engine. This 6.0-liter powerhouse shares specifications with the top-performing Continental GT, offering 626 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, with a maximum speed reaching 207 mph. The handcrafted W-12 engines are produced in Crewe and are paired with an ZF 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, facilitating rapid gear changes.
The previous generation Flying Spur delivered power with a 60-40 front-to-rear split, but the new model features a continually variable system allowing for power to be directed fully to the rear wheels. Depending on slip, road conditions, and driver preferences, the car’s ECU can intelligently distribute power, which Bentley claims helps to nearly eliminate understeer—a significant achievement given the vehicle’s size.
The vehicle also benefits from advanced All-Wheel Steering and Torque Vectoring systems, enhancing its agility. All-wheel steering, a feature previously exclusive to supercars, allows the rear wheels to turn opposite of the front wheels at low speeds, reducing the turning radius, while at higher speeds, they align for increased stability. The torque vectoring contributes to a more responsive driving experience, enabling quick turns.
For comfort, the new Flying Spur utilizes Bentley’s Dynamic Ride system incorporating three-chamber air springs, Continuous Damping Control, electronically controlled anti-sway bars, and ride-height sensors at all four corners, delivering a ride quality reminiscent of a luxury limousine while retaining the firmness for spirited driving on twisty roads. The vehicle is equipped with the largest iron brakes ever fitted to a production car.
Lastly, the Flying Spur comes equipped with a host of intelligent technological features. The central 12.3-inch display can rotate and boasts various Driver Assistance Systems, including Traffic Assist adaptive cruise control, City Assist, Blind Spot Warning, Night Vision, Head-Up Display, Top View Cameras, Rear Traffic Alert, and Self-Parking. Audiophiles will appreciate the three available audio systems: the standard 650-watt, 10-speaker system; an upgraded 1,500-watt, 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen system; or a remarkable 2,200-watt, 19-speaker Naim system.
“With the launch of the Continental GT, the new Flying Spur represents a complete reimagining that pushes the limits of technology and craftsmanship, establishing new benchmarks in performance and refinement,” stated Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors. Orders for the all-new Flying Spur are expected to be accepted later this year, with customer deliveries slated to begin in early 2020. Pricing details have yet to be announced, but given the previous models’ six-figure price ranges, potential buyers should prepare for a premium investment.
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