New Bentley Flying Spur: 207mph luxury sports saloon on show at Goodwood

The engine combines high-pressure and low-pressure fuel injection, intended to maximise refinement, lower particulate emissions and optimise power and torque delivery. The new model reaches a peak torque of 664lb ft at 1350rpm, compared with the previous generation’s 590lb ft at 2000rpm. The unit also uses a variable displacement system that can shut down half the cylinders, making it more efficient below 3000rpm. 

After the W12 launches, an entry-level V8 will be added to the range. A V6 petrol-powered plug-in hybrid will complete the powertrain line-up. This, Bentley’s second hybrid, will follow the Bentayga Hybrid, which launches in August. 

The Flying Spur pioneers all-wheel steering for Bentley, a system that is promised to enhance stability at high speeds and manoeuvrability around town. The rear wheels are steered in the opposite direction to the front wheels at low speeds, reducing the turning circle and making parking easier. At higher speeds, the rear wheels stay in the same direction as the front wheels, as a means of improving stability. 

While the second-generation Flying Spur had all-wheel drive, the new model introduces an active system that favours rear-wheel drive to improve the car’s handling but will also send torque to the front axle automatically as needed. Bentley said the front end of the car feels “much lighter” as a result. 

Other features already seen on the Continental include Bentley’s Dynamic Ride System, a 48V electric active roll control system and three-chamber air springs containing 60% more air volume than the previous single-chamber springs, resulting in a chassis set-up for all types of driving. 

Torque distribution varies according to the drive setting. In Comfort and Bentley modes, up to 354lb ft is sent to the front axle. In Sport mode, torque to the front axle is limited to 206lb ft to achieve a more dynamic feel. The model also has a torque-vectoring-by-brake system. 

The Flying Spur gets a longer wheelbase than its predecessor – the front wheels move forward by 130mm, creating a shorter overhang and more interior space – but its overall proportions are similar to the outgoing car’s. 

While the outgoing model and the new Continental have a matrix grille, the new Flying Spur adds vanes to the grille “to make the car look more majestic”, said design director Stefan Sielaff, and to pay homage to WO Bentley’s 8 Litre model from 1930. The matrix remains behind the vanes for cooling purposes. 

The Flying B mascot has been redesigned for Bentley’s centenary year. It is the marque’s first-ever electronically powered, retracting Flying B – the existing emblem on the Mulsanne is manually adjusted – and even gets illuminated wings.

The headlights and ‘B’ graphic tail-lights have the same crystal-cut-effect LEDs as found on the Continental. Standard wheels are 21in, but 22in Mulliner rims – the biggest yet offered on a Flying Spur – are available. 

Inside, the Flying Spur has the familiar double-wing theme in the front, and uses the well-received rotating display including the 12.3in touchscreen first launched on the Continental. The second side of the display has three customisable digital dials and the third side continues the wood veneer around the cabin. 

There is a different central console to the Continental featuring two air vents with optional diamond-cut edges sitting between a clock, wireless charging capability, USB ports and more compartments. 

Sielaff said there is a “focus on both front and rear” as the Continental GT and Panamera share new model’s MSB platform car needs to appeal to both drivers and passengers. There is an option for darker front seats and lighter rear seats, and Sielaff added the rear has a “lounge-like feel”. 

Bentley’s newly designed detachable, magnetic tablet enables rear passengers to control mood lights, media features, vehicle information, massage functionality and the deployment of the Flying B ornament.