Bentley claims the V8-powered Flying Spur S has a 198mph top speed.
Following on from the Continental GT S, Bentley has unveiled its new Flying Spur S. Despite it still being a luxury limousine, it’s aimed more at those that like driving, rather than being driven.
Unlike the V8-only GT S, the Flying Spur S is available with two powertrain options. One is the 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine found in the regular Flying Spur V8 – developing 404kW and 770 Nm of torque. The other is the 2.9-litre hybrid V6 petrol engine with 400kW and 750Nm of torque.
There’s little to choose between the two in terms of acceleration, with the V8 taking four seconds to go from 0-100km/h and the hybrid taking 0.1 seconds longer. The V8 outguns the hybrid when it comes to top speed, however, with it reaching 319km/h to the hybrid’s 285km/h.
While the powertrains remain unchanged, the Flying Spur S does receive numerous visual cues to help it stand out from the regular model. Black trim replaces most of the exterior chrome and the headlights and rear lights also get a dark tint. The quad tailpipes and S badging on the front wings are finished in black, too. The Bentley badge and lettering on the bootlid are the only items to remain chrome.
An all-new, five-spoke 22-inch wheel features on the Flying Spur S and it’s available in Pale Brodgar Satin or gloss black. They sit over standard-fit red brake calipers, matching the look of the Continental GT S.
Inside there are more subtle nods to the demeanour of the Flying Spur S with Dinamica leather covering the heating heated steering wheel, gear lever, seat cushions and seat backrests. A metal S badge appears on the illuminated Bentley treadplates – replacing the usual Bentley Motors Ltd plaque. An S logo is stitched into the fluted seats (a Bentley badge is a no-cost alternative) and for the driver the instrumentation features the same graphics as the Continental GT Speed.
As standard, the Flying Spur S receives Bentley’s ‘Dynamic Ride’ system, which is capable of applying up to 1300Nm of torque to help avoid body roll during hard cornering. Electronic all-wheel steering is also included to decrease the turning circle and increase agility.
The 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed kicks off on 23 June and will play host to the launch of the Flying Spur S and Continential GT S. Both cars will taken take part in the hill climb event as well as being on display in the paddock.
Alastair Crooks