What's all this about?
Bentley is set to launch a new driver-focused version of its Flying Spur saloon at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed, adding some extra visual flair as well as the choice of a V8 or plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Flying Spur S will give Bentley buyers a more defined choice between a touch more driver engagement in the new model the recently-announced comfort-oriented Flying Spur Azure.
How different is this Flying Spur from other models?
Where there was once chrome, the brightwork is now blacked out, giving the Flying Spur S a more purposeful look. The blackened lower air intake, for example, helps give the car a lower, wider aesthetic, an effect complemented by darkened head- and tail-lights, new light surrounds, a black grille and black quad tailpipes. Only the winged badge up front and the Bentley lettering across the rear are still finished in chrome.
The whole package sits on a choice of 21- or 22-inch black alloy wheels with a choice of gloss or satin paint. Peeking through those alloys is a set of red brake callipers, just to hint at something a little more special than the average Flying Spur.
Is it still luxurious?
That goes without saying, though rather than all-out opulence, there’s a nod to that more driver-focussed theme with a two-tone combination of leather and Dinamica, a suede-like material similar to Alcantara, which is used on the heated steering wheel, gear lever, seat cushions and seat back-rests.
The material pattern on the seats is fluted (quilting is optional) with the “S” emblem embroidered on the headrests, although Bentley wings are a no-cost alternative. The instruments, Bentley says, are inspired by motorsport chronometers with the graphics the same as those found on the Continental GT Speed.
What about power?
Drivers who really want to make their presence felt are in for a treat with the exhaust system in the V8 having been redesigned to amplify the engine sound. That 4.0-litre V8, incidentally, develops 550hp and 770Nm of torque meaning it can take the Flying Spur S from 0-62mph in four seconds flat. Things are kept under control by the Bentley Dynamic Ride system which maintains a flat, stable ride under enthusiastic cornering and decouples the wheels across each axle at lower speeds for more cosseting drive. Electronic all-wheel steering is also standard, offering greater agility around town.
Buyers who can do without the full-fat V8 may opt for the plug-in hybrid which, with its 2.9-litre V6 engine and electric assistance offers barely any noticeable difference in performance, with 0-62mph dispensed just a tenth of a second slower than in the V8. As well as brisk performance, the hybrid is capable of 26 miles of electric-only running, meaning owners will be able to complete short journeys without starting the engine. The exhaust system in the hybrid has been designed to amplify the engine note for the driver while keeping noise levels low towards the rear of the cabin.
And when is it due to make its debut?
At the Goodwood Festival of Speed between June 23 and 26. As part of proceedings, the Flying Spur S will take part in the Hillclimb as well as being on display in the paddock throughout the event, joined by its current stablemates and various Bentleys of old.
David Mullen - 14 Jun 2022