Bentley’s Flying Spur A Blur of Speed

As promised, Bentley released its Flying Spur Speed yesterday, Sep 10. The appearance is relatively unchanged from the previous model. However, under the hood is a rambunctious plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain that, in the promo video, has the ‘four-door supercar’ in a drifting competition.

For this Bentley Flying Spur Speed features the same ‘Ultra Performance Hybrid’ set-up as that in the Continental GT Speed. Its 441kW 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine works together with a 139kW electric motor that’s part of the car’s eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The combination delivers 575kW and 1000Nm of torque in the Flying Spur Speed. That’s 112kW and 100Nm more than its W12-powered predecessor. And the PHEV system creates much more torque at low speeds. The idea is that the e-motor negates turbo lag. Imagine a limo that can reach 100km from a standstill in 3.5sec. Imagine no longer.

At the other extreme, its 25.9kWh battery offers a pure-electric range of up to 75km, and EV mode can sustain speeds up to 134km/h. Overall CO2 emissions are set at 33g/km.

Drive modes include pure EV, electric boost, regenerative braking and charge. The latter has the engine top up the battery on the go. 

Using a home wallbox, it takes around three hours to replenish the battery pack. However, there’s no rapid DC charging facility.

Bentley’s says its new dual-valve dampers provide a broader dynamic range. So Comfort is just that, Bentley the every-day mode and Sport is firmer for, er, drifting. Dual-chamber air suspension underlies the improved ride comfort in the softest mode.

Helping with the turning duties are rear-wheel steering, plus an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential and a 48V active anti-roll system. The car also features torque vectoring via the centre differential and through the brake system.

Pick the latest FS Speed by its new grille pattern and rear diffuser. The 22-inch alloy wheels are fresh designs too.

And it is much the same story of familiarity for the interior, distinguished by new seat designs, updated graphics for the driver’s display, and upgrades to the infotainment software. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work better now too. Bentley reckons it will add green traffic-light prediction to help with city driving.

We await details on pricing.