MONTE CARLO I am not a potentate. Neither am I a captain of industry, oil tycoon, shipping magnate, oligarch or Hollywood megastar. Yet, on arrival to Nices Cte dAzur airport, where I was then chauffeured in Bentleys new Flying Spur to the Htel de Paris in Monte Carlo, I felt like the biggest of big shots. Ensconced in sumptuous luxury in the back seat of the bespoke British manufacturers grand touring sports sedan for the 40-minute drive where the super-wealthy come to frolic, gamble, and stash their millions, I feigned a look of utter indifference, the better to set myself apart from the commoners.This was probably the most stress-free introduction to the worlds most advanced luxury GT sports sedan Bentleys claim, not mine one can hope for, using the rear-seats removable touchscreen to set the massage function to pulse, close the sunroofs blind, pick a soothing shade of mood lighting and check our progress into Monaco on the navigation map. Drive? Not just now, thank you.Yet, Bentley has designed, engineered, and handcrafted the third-generation 2020 Flying Spur to be driven quickly and with no compromise to hedonistic levels of luxury. Our customers may have a fleet of motor cars in their garage, notes Peter Guest, Bentleys product line director for the car. But the default choice, when they can only drive one car, is a Bentley, because you have everything you require and more in the new Flying Spur. It is the ultimate expression of the internal combustion age.Whew! Talk about setting a high bar, one that could be knocked down if one were feeling jaded or allergic to huge doses of hyperbole. Yet, its hard not to admire the effort put into this full-size, four-door sedan, even one with a starting price tag of $236,100, for which perfection would be expected, at least by those of more modest means. The Bentley rides on the same MSB platform as the Continental GT and the Porsche Panamera, and at 5,405 millimetres in length, it boasts a wheelbase 130 millimetres longer than the previous Flying Spur.If not drop-dead stunning visually, the Flying Spur at least demands your attention even here in Monte Carlo, where Rolls-Royces, Lamborghinis, McLarens, and Ferraris command prime parking spots at the casino and outside the chi-chi hotels. Theres a strong, broad-shouldered, masculine look to the cars aluminum body, offset with a myriad of details, such as its imposing grille, the LED matrix headlights with unique cut-crystal-effect detailing, and the pice de rsistance, the Flying B ornament that rises majestically from beneath the Bentley nose badge. The one downside of the redesign is the thick windshield pillars that can obstruct the view when cornering, which made picking ones way through the congested streets of Monte Carlo thick with scooters and tourists an exercise in extreme caution.Like the Bentayga and Continental GT, the Flying Spur is initially available with a 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12, mated to a dual-clutch eight-speed transmission. This enhanced engine delivers 635 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, more than enough to move the robust four-door to ridiculous speeds zero to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 333 km/h.If not the worlds fastest four-door sedan, the Flying Spur is in rarefied company. Maximum velocity is reached in sixth gear, with overdrive seventh and eighth used for economic grand touring. Bentley says its committed to offering electrified powertrains in all its model lines by 2023, so the 12-cylinder will not be the only engine powering the Flying Spur. Now, hooning about in something as dignified as a Bentley is rather dclass. Fortunately, even part throttle moves the car along at a clip that makes passing slow-moving 18-wheelers a breeze and smooth. The 12-cylinder is whisper quiet, the upshifts and downshifts all but imperceptible.The meandering tarmac of La Route Napolean allowed at least a portion of the Flying Spurs new all-wheel-drive system to be given a workout. Unlike the previous-generation version, which employed a permanent AWD system with a fixed 60/40 power split, the 2020 model has a clutched system that delivers two-wheel drive to the rear axle. Depending on the road conditions and wheel slip, it will then automatically send drive to the front axle as required, up to 354 lb.-ft. of torque in Comfort mode. In Sport, the system limits the available torque to the front axle to 207 lb.-ft., maintaining a higher torque level at the rear for a more traditional feel. Turn-in response is thus improved with the front end feeling much lighter, in turn making directional changes easier with greatly reduced understeer.Also assisting in the big sedans road-hugging prowess is a new electronic all-wheel steering system. Coupled with the active all-wheel drive and Bentley Dynamic Ride, delivering excellent handling and ride. New three-chamber air springs allow a greater range of suspension adjustment between limo-style comfort and
Origin: Bentley’s all-new Flying Spur is the lavish commuter car for the one-percent
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Bentley rolls out augmented-reality app for new Flying Spur
Bentley has introduced an app for its third-generation Flying Spur that allows users to virtually experience the luxury sports saloon ahead of first deliveries in early 2020. The app, which is free to download on Google Play and Apple’s App Store, is targeted at prospective customers. However, Bentley also anticipates that it will appeal to enthusiasts and fans of the brand. Users can explore the outside and interior of two versions of the car, once they are logged into the app: the luxury spec, which features a gun-metal exterior and bespoke interior linings; and the more driver-focused chrome ‘performance’ version. The performance variant can also be toured with a recently added black accent. Bentley launched a similar app for its centenary concept car, the EXP 100 GT, allowing users to tour the car and superimpose it onto various locations, including their own driveway. This feature is also on the Flying Spur app, as well as a new option to get behind the wheel and take a virtual drive. For users looking to purchase the car, Bentley’s configurator and dealer contacts can be accessed through the
Origin: Bentley rolls out augmented-reality app for new Flying Spur
New Bentley Flying Spur: 207mph luxury sports saloon on show at Goodwood
The third-generation Bentley Flying Spur will represent a “quantum leap in technology, performance and innovation” over its predecessor, according to the Crewe-based maker. The goal for the model – which follows the Bentley Bentayga and Continental GT in the sales rankings and makes its public debut at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed – is to offer sports saloon agility paired with limousine refinement so that it caters to both drivers and those being chauffeured. The latter is a crucial selling point for the Flying Spur in China, which is the largest market for the model alongside the US. Bentley claims that the new Flying Spur “owes only its name to its predecessor” – alluding to its new chassis, suspension, W12 engine and eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Much of the new Flying Spur’s set-up and componentry is shared with the Continental GT, launched last year. However, despite the Flying Spur and Continental’s identical underpinnings, including the MSB platform that is also shared with Porsche’s Panamera, Bentley has sought to differentiate the two cars not only through the difference in body shape but also a number of finer design details both inside and out. The Flying Spur will launch with Bentley’s familiar range-topping twin-turbocharged W12 engine, reworked for this generation. The 6.0-litre unit produces 626bhp and 664lb ft of torque, accelerating the car from 0-60mph in 3.7sec, 0.7sec faster than its predecessor. The top speed is 207mph. It is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission promised to deliver “smooth and refined acceleration, quicker gearshifts and improved fuel economy”. 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
Origin: New Bentley Flying Spur: 207mph luxury sports saloon on show at Goodwood
The new Bentley Flying Spur is a 626-hp W12-powered monster
Bentley has revamped its Flying Spur from the ground up to round out the lineup of its redesigned models. The exterior look of the vehicle hasn’t changed greatly, but that’s the Bentley way. Keen eyes will notice, now, the Flying Spur follows the design cues of the new Continental GT. The wheelbase has been extended to offer better legroom for passengers, and the overall length is now 5,304 millimetres. Bentley’s 6.0-litre W12 is on offer, and makes an incredible 626 horsepower and 664 lb.-ft. of torque, which is somehow enough to get all 2,435 kilograms of car to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Maxed out, it’ll do 333 km/h. An eight-speed automatic sends the power to all four wheels. On all four corners are 21-inch wheels with 22-inch boots available as an option, and all four of those wheels can steer, a first for the brand. The four-wheel steering system makes the handling a little more nippy, even for a massive boat like the Flying Spur. The weight distribution has also been played with, and the all-wheel-drive system can send power to whichever wheel needs the grip most. The interior is obviously luxurious, and is available in 15 different hide colours. Piano black and wood veneers are available, as well as a dual veneer for an even more bespoke look. Since the car will be so quiet, the sound system is a standard 10-speaker system that can be upgraded to a 16-speaker 1,500-watt Bang Olufsen setup; or a 19-speaker 2,200-watt Naim system with active bass transducers in the front seats. In case the pictures weren’t enough, Bentley has shared a video that shows every facet of the vehicle in staggering detail. Orders will be taken in the fall, with delivery next
Origin: The new Bentley Flying Spur is a 626-hp W12-powered monster
New Bentley Flying Spur: 207mph luxury sports saloon revealed
The third-generation Bentley Flying Spur will represent a “quantum leap in technology, performance and innovation” over its predecessor, according to the Crewe-based maker. However, despite the Flying Spur and Continental’s identical underpinnings, including the MSB platform that is also shared with Porsche’s Panamera, Bentley has sought to differentiate the two cars not only through the difference in body shape but also a number of finer design details both inside and out. The Flying Spur will launch with Bentley’s familiar range-topping twin-turbocharged W12 engine, reworked for this generation. The 6.0-litre unit produces 626bhp and 664lb ft of torque, accelerating the car from 0-60mph in 3.7sec, 0.7sec faster than its predecessor. The top speed is 207mph. It is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission promised to deliver “smooth and refined acceleration, quicker gearshifts and improved fuel economy”. 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 veins 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 veins 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. The Flying Spur introduces all-new quilting in the door card, which features
Origin: New Bentley Flying Spur: 207mph luxury sports saloon revealed
New Flying Spur will be first Bentley with all-wheel steering
The third-generation Bentley Flying Spur will be the first model from the marque to receive all-wheel steering, as the car maker seeks to make its four-door luxury saloon the most dynamic yet. Alongside this, it will also feature active all-wheel drive and Bentley’s Dynamic ride system, as found on sibling model, the Continental GT. Bentley said the trio of systems promises “unparalleled agility in the segment,” which includes the Rolls Royce Ghost and Mercedes-Maybach S 600. It added that the introduction of all-wheel steering will “enhance both stability at highway speeds and manoeuvrability around town”. The last two generations of Flying Spur used all-wheel drive, but the new model’s active system means drive is sent to the rear wheels in normal road conditions for a sportier feel. This latest image and video (below) shows the model undergoing final testing at Nardo test track. Bentley has also shown an image (above) of the door card which features three-dimensional, textured leather upholstery, a claimed world-first. The final clue Bentley has shown ahead of the Flying Spur’s full reveal is a video (below) of the car’s bonnet and Flying B emblem, which appears to have illuminated wings. The Crewe-based firm hopes that the upcoming Flying Spur, which will be unveiled on June 11, will appeal to a new generation of Bentley buyers. It will also aims to better distinguish the model from its two-door sibling, the Continental GT by having a more distinctive design with more defined surfaces. It is, however, based on the same MSB platform as its sibling, and uses familiar Bentley engines, including the 6.0-litre W12 and V8. It’s also expected to be the next Bentley to receive a V6-powered plug-in hybrid. An electrified version will be crucial to bolster Bentley sales in China, among other markets. Bentley said: “Both sports sedan and luxury limousine, Bentley’s all-new Flying Spur owes only its historic name to the preceding model and will deliver an unparalleled touring experience for the driver and passengers alike.” It added that the model is “ground up development that pushes the boundaries of both technology and craftsmanship to deliver segment-defining levels of performance and refinement”. Following the launch of the Flying Spur, the firm will turn its focus to what Autocar understands will be a next step in its design, promising a more radical change to something more fresh and modern. It is Bentley’s centenary year, and a host of celebrations in July will include a concept reveal showcasing “the future of grand touring”. Bentley, under the tenure of boss Adrian Hallmark, who joined last year from Jaguar Land Rover, is finalising its broader model strategy for the next few years, which is expected to focus on grand touring models and SUVs rather than sports
Origin: New Flying Spur will be first Bentley with all-wheel steering
New Bentley Flying Spur: luxury saloon’s interior previewed
Bentley is building up to the launch of its all-new Flying Spur, previewing the car’s interior ahead of its debut later this year. While Mercedes-Maybach S 600 rival’s interior is seen for the first time in this image, it’s not exactly revealing, showing the front door card design. Bentley is previewing what it claims to be a world-first: three-dimensional, textured leather upholstery. Bentley describes the new Flying Spur as a “ground up development that pushes the boundaries of both technology and craftsmanship to deliver segment-defining levels of performance and refinement”. The luxury saloon is the firm’s answer to the Rolls-Royce Ghost, as well as the Maybach. While it has commonly been known as the four-door sibling to the Continental GT – and will continue to be closely related under the skin – it is understood that the Flying Spur will have a far more distinctive design, intended to make it stand alone as a model in its own right. As hinted at a previous video showing the car’s bonnet and emblem, the model’s styling will follow the themes of the Continental GT but has more distinct surfaces and sharper swage lines. The latest Continental GT launched early last year, and the maker recently unveiled the V8 variant and the GT Convertible. A full range of engines is expected to be launched on the next Flying Spur, including Bentley’s V8 and W12 petrol options, and a plug-in hybrid based around a V6 petrol engine instead of going down the diesel route. Hybrid options will be key in bolstering Bentley’s sales in China in particular. In time, a Speed variant will crown the range. It will feature a higher-performance engine that will also be used in the Continental GT and GT Convertible. Once the Continental range has been completed, the firm will turn its focus to what Autocar understands will be a next step in its design, promising a more radical change to something more fresh and modern. It is Bentley’s centenary year, and a host of celebrations in July will include a concept reveal which is expected to showcase this change in design direction. Bentley, under the tenure of boss Adrian Hallmark, who joined last year from Jaguar Land Rover, is finalising its broader model strategy for the next few years, which is expected to focus on grand touring models and SUVs rather than sports
Origin: New Bentley Flying Spur: luxury saloon’s interior previewed
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