Bentley Motors today announces details of the world’s most advanced luxury Grand Touring sports sedan – the all-new Flying Spur. Whether driving or being driven, the all-new Flying Spur offers a unique combination of limousine luxury and sports sedan performance, blending bold new road presence with world-leading interior quality and design, plus cutting-edge customer-focused technology.
“As with the launch of the Continental GT, the new Flying Spur is a ground up development that pushes the boundaries of both technology and craftsmanship to deliver segment-defining levels of performance and refinement,” comments Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors.
Designed, engineered and handcrafted at the Home of Bentley in Crewe, England, the new Flying Spur showcases Bentley’s unique application of cutting-edge & modern technology, seamlessly integrating the latest British craftsmanship with innovation features. The latest generation of Flying Spur pushes the existing boundaries of refinement and attention to detail to create the finest super-luxury sports sedan ever built.
The new Flying Spur showcases Bentley’s modern sculptural design language through elegant yet muscular proportions, the marque’s latest generation of unique, cut-crystal effect LED matrix headlamps – now enhanced by chrome sleeves – and new wrap-around rear lamps with ‘B’ motifs. New 22-inch wheel designs communicate the new Flying Spur’s unique personality and prowess.
Newly-designed for the next century, a ‘Flying B’ mascot adorns the nose of the new Flying Spur for the first time in modern memory, rising from beneath a beautifully modern Bentley badge to denote the precious quality of the model.
A technological tour de force, the new Flying Spur is the most advanced luxury Grand Touring sedan available today, offering a host of cutting-edge technologies thanks to its totally new and advanced aluminium and composite chassis and 48V electronic architecture.
It features Electronic All-Wheel Steering for the first time on a Bentley, coupled with Active All-Wheel Drive and Bentley Dynamic Ride, delivering phenomenal handling and ride. New three-chamber air springs allow a much greater range of suspension adjustment between limousine-style ride comfort and sporting levels of body control – a driving experience of extraordinary breadth and capability not seen in this segment before.
A host of new Driver Assistance Systems are fitted to the new Flying Spur as standard, including Traffic Assist, City Assist and Blind Spot Warning, while the ground-breaking Bentley uses state-of-the-art, multi-material body construction.
At the heart of the new Flying Spur is an enhanced version of Bentley’s renowned 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12, mated to a dual-clutch eight-speed transmission for faster, smoother gear changes. This new TSI engine delivers 635 PS (626 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb.ft.), 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h time of 3.8 seconds) and a top speed of 207mph (333 km/h).
A 130mm longer wheelbase means the new Flying Spur features a spacious and luxurious cabin that offers peerless comfort and refinement. As well as an extensive list of Single and Dual Veneer wood options, the sedan offers both Bentley’s new fluted leather seating and the unique Mulliner Driving Specification diamond quilting on the seats and an automotive world-first: three-dimensional diamond quilted leather door inserts.
Such modern handcraftsmanship is combined with a host of cutting-edge technologies selected to enhance the driver’s and passenger comfort and enjoyment of the new Flying Spur. For example, the HD digital instrument panel display, the unique rotating centre console with choice of 12.3 inch digital touchscreen, beautiful analogue dials or digital detoxifying veneer, and the remote control touch screen for rear passengers all combine to make the Flying Spur’s cabin the most modern, innovative and luxurious place to travel in.
Tailored specifically to the modern luxury customer, the interior can be further enhanced with a panoramic glass sunroof stretching the full-length of the roof.
The new Flying Spur is available to order from this Autumn and customer deliveries will begin in early 2020.
Flying Spur – An All-New Design
The bold exterior design of the Flying Spur is based on a new and modern vision that is unmistakably Bentley. With a wheelbase lengthened by 130mm compared to the second generation model, the new Flying Spur now has an increased road presence and stronger, more muscular lines that sweep the full length of the car.
The new Flying Spur has been recreated from the ground up on a wholly new platform. Its sculpted surfaces and beautiful power lines are made possible by the use of aluminium superforming, a process first proven on the new Bentley Continental GT.
Bentley has utilised the latest technologies in aluminium extrusions and castings alongside high-strength steels for the new Flying Spur, offering best-in-class body stiffness to optimise handling and rigidity.
LED matrix headlights are standard on the Flying Spur, with unique cut-crystal effect detailing. A chrome sleeve has been added behind the cut element making them sparkle, even when not lit. At the rear, wrap-around lamps utilises the familiar ‘B’ graphic and echoes the diamond knurling of the interior air vents. A choice of new 21-inch wheels is offered as standard, as well as the option of two unique 22-inch Mulliner Specifications.
A full size, glass-to-glass panoramic sunroof can be specified. The front panel tilts and slides rearwards over the top of the fixed back panel. Alcantara blinds deploy electrically and are colour-matched to the 15 interior headlining colours.
The Flying B mascot that adorns the bonnet is available for the first time on a modern day Flying Spur. In Bentley’s Centenary year, the mascot has been restyled for the next century and is an evolution of previous designs. Electronically-deployed and illuminated, it is linked to the welcome lighting sequence and keyless entry system as the driver approaches the car.
The new Flying Spur also features a gloss black radiator matrix, with bright chrome surround and vertical vanes that hark back to the iconic 1957 Bentley S1 Continental Flying Spur. The lower matrix can be specified in either black or bright chrome.
Standard paint options for the Flying Spur extend to a class-leading portfolio of 17 Bentley colours, carefully selected to complement the character and lines of the car.
The Finest Handcrafted Cabin
The interior of the all-new Flying Spur showcases Bentley’s expertise in creating a modern cabin of unrivalled luxury and innovation. Stylish and unique, it features new, supremely comfortable seats in 15 hide colours, with Bentley’s ‘Wing’ theme across the lower console and fascia.
Sweeping horizontal veneer flows across the dashboard and into the doors, emphasising the spacious width of the cabin. An elegant, floating centre console houses a customisable 12.3-inch HD touchscreen and new Bentley ‘sculptural’ centre vents to the front and rear, housing stowage as well as inductive ‘wireless’ charging and two USB sockets for mobile phones.
The industry-first Bentley Rotating Display is also now available on the new Flying Spur. When the engine start button is pressed, the veneer section in the middle of the dashboard rotates to reveal a 12.3-inch touchscreen, displaying three, customisable digital tiles. The second side of the display reveals three elegant analogue dials showing outside temperature, a compass and a chronometer. A complete digital detox can be selected on the third side, to simply enjoy the seamless wood veneer fascia continuing around the cabin.
In another example of Bentley’s exacting attention to detail, the traditional round ‘bullseye’ vents have been replaced in the centre of the dashboard with new shaped, precision detailed vents between which sits the Bentley clock. Fine bronze detailing around the clock and switches lift the switchgear to a new level of refinement.
Three-dimensional diamond quilted leather door inserts are used for the first time in a car, inspired by the Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 design concept. New diamond knurling adorns the rotary switches and is also available on the air vents and clock. In order to produce the decorative detail, a new software algorithm had to be invented to work with the complex curves of the ducts.
Crown Cut Walnut is offered as a new wood veneer option, which uses a straight cut process to provide a more modern finish. As well as the popular Dark Fiddleback and Piano Black options, a range of five further veneers are available. Dual veneer finish can also be specified in all veneer types to add an even more bespoke feel to the cabin.
The wing-theme graphic continues around the interior of the cabin doors, creating an elegant colour split and seamless link between the front and rear seats. Mood Lighting is newly available as an option, with the choice of seven colours and varying intensities.
The Flying Spur’s all-new seats feature a twin-flute design and increased functionality, including heating, ventilation, multi-mode massage, adjustable bolsters and top tilt. With the optional Mulliner Driving Specification, the new three-dimensional leather combines with traditional stitching and embroidery work.
The rear seats provide a luxurious, cosseting travelling environment, with a folding centre armrest and manually deployed centre headrest that stows away when not in use for maximum visibility.
Power & Agility Unleashed
The new Bentley Flying Spur is powered by a W12 twin-turbocharged TSI engine that sets a new benchmark in performance, agility and dynamism. The engine is developed and hand-built in Crewe.
The most advanced 12-cylinder engine in the world, the unique ‘W’ configuration means that the engine is considerably shorter than an equivalent V12, benefitting weight distribution and maximizing cabin space.
The Flying Spur’s new powertrain uses the very latest engine management technology, delivering noticeably enhanced performance when compared to the previous generation model. It produces 635 PS (626 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) of torque, accelerating the car to 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (100 km/h in 3.8 seconds), and on to a top speed of 207mph (333 km/h).
A more forward front axle position improves weight distribution in the new Flying Spur, enabling improved dynamic precision, handling and balance when coupled with active All-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Steering and Bentley Dynamic Ride.
The new Flying Spur uses the same 8-speed ZF dual-clutch transmission as the Continental GT, for smooth and refined acceleration, quicker gearshifts and improved fuel economy. Faster gearshifts are achieved by pre-selecting the next gear, shortening the interruption of torque to the wheels and so improving performance. Maximum speed is reached in sixth gear, with the overdrive gears (seventh and eighth) used for economic grand touring.
The previous generation Flying Spur employed a permanent all-wheel-drive system with a fixed 60:40 power split to the rear/front axles. The all-new model has a clutched system which 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, as an active all-wheel drive system. Turn-in response is also dramatically improved. The front end of the all-new Flying Spur feels much lighter and changes direction almost at the speed of thought. The understeer effect experienced with fixed all-wheel drive is virtually eliminated, making the car feel more balanced overall.
Torque distribution varies according to the selected Drive Dynamics Mode. In Comfort and Bentley modes, the system will send up to 480 Nm of torque to the front axle to offer greater grip and driveability. In Sport, the system limits the available torque to the front axle to 280 Nm, maintaining a higher torque level at the rear for a more dynamic feel. Torque is also managed across each axle by a torque-vectoring-by-brake system.
Electronic All-Wheel Steering is an all new technology feature, which enhances both stability at highway speeds and manoeuvrability around town. During low-speed manoeuvres, the system steers the rear wheels in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This has the effect of shortening the wheelbase, reducing the turning circle, increasing agility and making parking noticeably easier.
During high-speed manoeuvres, the system steers the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, increasing stability and making overtaking and lane-changes more assured. Electronic All-Wheel Steering means no compromise between high speed confidence and low speed convenience.
The new, third generation Flying Spur uses three-chamber air springs which contain 60 percent more air volume compared to the previous model. This allows more scope to vary from sporting levels of spring stiffness to luxury limousine refinement depending upon which mode the driver has selected. The new car features CDC (Continuous Damping Control), which allows continuous regulation of the dampers.
Four ride height sensors constantly measure the distance between the axle and the body. If the system detects a difference compared with the normal height, the air volume in the springs is corrected accordingly to restore the normal height.
The Bentley Dynamic Ride System is designed to improve both handling and ride comfort. A 48-volt system controls an electronic actuator unit which manages the stiffness of the anti-roll bar, changing the stiffness on demand to combat cornering forces and keep the Flying Spur level.
The new Flying Spur shares the largest iron brakes in the world with the Continental GT, with 420 mm front discs. Both front and rear calipers carry Bentley branding. Standard fit is gloss black, with a gloss red finish optional.
The new Flying Spur also sounds as good as it looks, thanks to an adaptive tailpipe control valve with variable position settings. The way exhaust gases flow into the rear half of the system has been tuned to provide a more discreet exhaust note inside the cabin for chauffeur-driven occupants.
Intelligent Technology – The All New Flying Spur
The new Flying Spur incorporates a class-leading portfolio of intelligent and intuitive equipment tailored to the driver and passengers.
The main 12.3-inch display in the centre dashboard features additional hard keys that complement the easy-to-use touchscreen functions. The HD display also has a proximity sensor to prime the screen for user inputs, offering a faster response to commands.
The screen can be configured in a number of different ways; as a single display, split 2:1 or showing three different functions at the same time on the self-configurable home screen.
The new Flying Spur offers a host of Driver Assistance Systems available, including Traffic Assist, City Assist and Blind Spot Warning. Night Vision and Head Up Display help the driver focus on the road ahead, while Top View Camera gives an eagle-eyed view of the car and its immediate surroundings, complemented by reverse traffic warning and self-parking features.
LED matrix headlamps allow the driver to maintain main beam all the time, automatically cutting a hole in the beam around other vehicles to avoid dazzling other drivers.
In the rear, an all-new Touch Screen Remote is made from beautifully-crafted materials. It integrates almost invisibly into the console but is easily removed at the touch of a button for remote use. It allows access to a wide range of applications, including control of all blinds, rear seat massage function and rear climate control, and can be used to pre-store configurations such as Mood Lighting.
A choice of three audio systems is offered in the new Flying Spur, with the standard system featuring 10 speakers and 650 Watts. A Bang & Olufsen 1,500W, 16-speaker system with illuminated grilles is aimed at lifestyle-orientated customers and benefits from the BeoSonic system – a new way for tone setting with a simple, intuitive one-touch user interface.
A unique, Naim for Bentley 2,200W, 19-speaker system with Active Bass Transducers built into the front seats is offered for the true audiophile, available with eight sound modes.
Bentley Mulliner Personalisation
Mulliner exists to respond to the requirements of Bentley’s most discerning customers. In the world of Mulliner, anything is possible. From requests as simple as monogrammed upholstery to the kind of elaborate tailored body modifications that can only be undertaken with the proven expertise of a truly established coachbuilder, the highly skilled and dedicated Mulliner craftsmen deliver luxury on a new level; rarity on a different scale.
The new Flying Spur redefines personalisation and bespoke luxury in its market. The range of paint colours, leather hides, wood veneers and options offer a limitless spectrum of colour to suit all tastes and preferences.
A number of hand-picked Mulliner-prepared features have been made available for the new Flying Spur. These include Lofted Diamond Leather Quilting upholstery for seats with unique Three-dimensional Diamond Leather door inserts; an exclusive Mulliner 22” wheel in two finishes; embroidered wings to all seats, sports pedals and jewelled-finish fuel filler and oil caps. Separately available, Mulliner have also developed a world-first, solid wood, three-dimensional diamond quilted door insert, exclusively available in open-pore walnut.
