Luxury automobile manufacturer Bentley launched today its first four-door supercar – the new Flying Spur.
Now in its fourth generation, the new Flying Spur is capable of smooth silent sailing in pure EV mode for up to 47 miles (76 km), with CO2 emissions 90 percent lower than the outgoing Flying Spur Speed. At the other end, the combined 782 PS of Bentley V8 and e-motor delivers sensational performance, passing the 0-60 mph benchmark in just 3.3 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds) – half a second quicker than its predecessor.
Powerful performance
The Flying Spur Speed’s all-wheel drive powertrain combines an advanced 600 PS 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a 190 PS electric motor that is neatly integrated within the eight-speed dual clutch transmission. In sport mode this powertrain deploys a full 782 PS and 1,000 Nm, with the instant torque of the e-motor complementing the V8. Compared with the previous Speed model, the new Flying Spur Speed delivers higher torque from lower engine speeds, higher peak torque and higher power output throughout the rev range.
System torque is increased by over 11 per cent compared to the outgoing W12-powered Flying Spur Speed, from 900 Nm to 1000 Nm (738 lb ft). System power has also increased by 19 per cent, from 659 PS to 782 PS. This makes the new Flying Spur the most powerful Bentley sedan ever created.
Lower emissions
The new 600 PS, 800 Nm (590 lb ft) V8 engine, with no traditional vacuum system, and 350 bar fuel injection pressure (raised from 200 bar) provides cleaner combustion and improved emissions. With the e-motor negating turbo lag, twin single-scroll turbochargers have been used, which reduces complexity and allows them to run hotter, minimizing emissions.
In pure EV mode, the e-motor provides 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque, more than enough to keep up with the traffic in most situations, while the 25.9 kWh battery offers up to 47 miles (76 km) of usable electric-only range (on the EU drive cycle). Together, the V8 and e-motor provide the new Flying Spur with a total range of 515 miles (829 km). Full electric mode can be deployed at speeds of up to 87 mph (140 km/h), with throttle applications of up to 75 per cent. The battery can be fully replenished in as little as 2 hours 45 minutes thanks to significant improvements in charger and battery capacity, with 11 kW peak charging power.
Advanced features
The Bentley performance active chassis comes as standard with the Flying Spur Speed. Features of the new setup include Bentley dynamic ride and all-wheel steering, along with an electronically-controlled limited slip differential, while a new generation of ESC control software permits a range of driving styles to be accessed and provides reliable traction in all conditions.
New and advanced twin-valve dampers enable rebound and compression damping to be separately controlled, creating a clear delineation of dynamic capabilities between comfort, Bentley and sport modes. The body-control of the previous generation’s sport mode is maintained, while the ride comfort in comfort mode is significantly improved.
Distinctive design
The performance-oriented character of the new Flying Spur Speed is underscored by the latest design enhancements. Brightware finished in dark tint gives the exterior a sporty, technical feel, while the new speed-specific grille, front bumper and rear diffuser create a fresh, purposeful look. The styling specification aero package is now finished in body colour, though owners can alternatively opt for a carbon fibre finish.
New LED welcome lamps housed in the doors project an animated version of the Bentley wings logo onto the ground whenever the front doors are opened.
A new 22” ten swept spoke wheel is available in two finishes (grey painted and bright machined, and black painted), along with two other 22” designs available in an array of painted, black painted, dark tint and pale brodgar satin finishes.
Spacious cabin
Occupants can enjoy all-new seat designs that feature 3D diamond quilting and a revised perforation pattern in the seat’s centre section. Tactile precision 3D diamond hide clothes the door inners and B pillars. Complementing the exterior dark-tine brightware, the new (and optional) dark chrome specification trim provides a contemporary aesthetic and gives an understated character to the cabin. This applies to door handles, switches, speaker grilles and many other areas around the cabin. New driver instrumentation graphics complete the package of design enhancements, while the Bentley rotating display with its choice of 12.3” high-definition display, three analogue dials, or an unbroken side of handcrafted veneer continues to be offered as an option.
Wide range
A paint range of 101 colours can be expanded to any colour from Bentley’s past, and bespoke paint-matching is also available. For the interior, 22 primary hide colours, 11 secondary shades and four colour splits mean that in the leather alone there are more than 700 colour combinations, before adding contrast stitching, piping or bespoke features. The leathers are joined by eight wood veneer options and a further three technical finishes, which can be utilized as single or dual finishes, and can also be paint matched to any interior hide or exterior paint colours.
A choice of three audio systems is offered in the new Flying Spur. The standard system features 10 speakers and 650 Watts, while a Bang & Olufsen 1,500 W, 16-speaker system with illuminated speaker grilles is aimed at lifestyle-oriented customers. A Naim 2,200 W, 19-speaker system with active bass transducers built into the front seats and eight sound modes is offered for the true audiophile. Laminated acoustic glass is retained for the windscreen and side windows, resulting in a nine-decibel reduction in exterior noise versus non-acoustic glazing.
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