LONDON: Bentley has launched its first four-door supercar – the new Flying Spur, now in its fourth generation.
Arriving initially with the performance-focused Speed, the new Flying Spur is built around Bentley’s new Ultra Performance Hybrid, offering an impressive mix of electric efficiency and powerful driving dynamics.
While the exterior design largely retains the familiar, muscular yet elegant design of the third-generation Flying Spur launched in 2019, it’s beneath the skin of the car where the real changes take place – with the all-new powertrain matched with an also-new electrical architecture
The new Flying Spur Speed’s plug-in hybrid system sports a 592hp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a 187hp electric motor integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
This combination produces a total of 771hp, allowing the car to sprint from 0-100kph in just 3.5 seconds.
This means it's half a second faster than the previous model.
The hybrid configuration results in a total driving range of 829km and an electric-only range of up to 76km, cutting down CO2 emissions by 90% compared to the outgoing model.
Some of the innovative features in the new model include twin single-scroll turbochargers designed to reduce complexity and emissions, a 350 bar fuel injection system for cleaner combustion, and the absence of cylinder deactivation hardware, as the electric motor compensates for turbo lag.
The 25.9 kWh battery can be recharged in under three hours (charging at up to 11kW), offering convenient electric mobility suited for both urban and highway driving.
Bentley’s Performance Active Chassis comes as standard, equipped with Bentley Dynamic Ride, All-Wheel Steering, and an electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential.
Enhanced ESC software supports diverse driving styles and reliable traction across different conditions. Advanced twin-valve dampers control rebound and compression separately, optimising ride comfort and dynamic control between Comfort, Bentley, and Sport modes.
The car’s performance is supported by a rear-biased weight distribution and active torque vectoring, enhancing its dynamic capabilities.
The Flying Spur Speed maintains the muscular elegance of the previous generation while introducing new design elements such as dark tint brightware, a Speed-specific grille, and a distinctive front bumper.
Inside, the cabin showcases Bentley’s craftsmanship with new 3D diamond quilting, enhanced stitching options, and contemporary Dark Chrome Specification trim.
The interior also features the Bentley Rotating Display, offering a choice between a 12.3” touchscreen, analog dials, or a wood veneer panel.
The car’s personalisation options are extensive, with 22 primary hide colours, 11 secondary shades, various wood veneer choices, and customisable combinations of interior and exterior finishes.
Technology advancements include the My Bentley App Studio, which allows users to download various applications directly to the infotainment system, enhancing the driving experience.
The Flying Spur supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates, along with connected services such as remote charging, park assist, and cabin pre-conditioning.
Enhancements in safety and comfort include Wellness Seating with auto climate control and postural adjustment, advanced air ionisation, and driver assistance features like Intelligent Park Assist.
The environment display provides semi-assisted driving information, and the air conditioning system adjusts to maintain optimal cabin air quality.
Three audio systems are available, ranging from a standard 10-speaker setup to a premium Naim system with 19 speakers and Active Bass Transducers.
Bentley offers extensive bespoke options for the Flying Spur, allowing owners to create a vehicle that reflects their unique tastes.
To celebrate the launch, Bentley partnered with motorsport icons, including F1 World Champion Damon Hill, Williams F1 Academy driver Lia Block, and Martin Brundle, showcasing the vehicle’s capabilities alongside the Bentley EXP Speed 8.
