The Evolution of the Bentley Flying Spur
The Bentley Flying Spur stands as a testament to luxury, performance, and refined engineering within the automotive world. Since its inception, the model has undergone significant transformations, reflecting changes in technology, design, and market demands. This article provides a detailed chronological overview of the Bentley Flying Spur, including production years, model variants, and trim levels offered throughout its history.
Introduction and Origins (2005–2013)
First Generation (2005–2013):
The Bentley Flying Spur was introduced in 2005 as a four-door, ultra-luxury sedan built on the Bentley Continental GT platform. It was developed to combine the performance characteristics of Bentley’s grand tourers with the practicality of a four-door sedan. The name “Flying Spur” pays homage to the legendary Bentley racing car of the 1930s, symbolizing speed and luxury.
Design and Engineering:
Designed by the Bentley team with input from Wolfgang Dürheimer, the first-generation Flying Spur featured a sleek, elegant exterior with a spacious, opulent interior. It employed a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine, producing 552 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of around 4.8 seconds and a top speed of approximately 188 mph.
Models and Trim Levels:
Initially, the 2005 Bentley Flying Spur was offered in a single, well-equipped trim, with optional packages to enhance luxury and performance. Over its production run, Bentley introduced several features and packages:
- Standard Features:
- Mulliner Driving Specification (standard on later models)
- Adaptive cruise control
- Sat-nav with Bluetooth
- Leather upholstery with wood veneers
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Optional Upgrades:
- Mulliner Driving Specification (introduced in later years)
- Premium sound systems
- Advanced driver assistance systems
- Custom interior options
Special Editions and Variants:
During this period, Bentley launched special editions to commemorate milestones or enhance exclusivity, such as:
- Flying Spur Speed (2007): Focused on increased performance, featuring a higher-powered version of the W12 engine (600 hp), sportier suspension, and unique interior trims.
- Flying Spur Speed (2009): Continued the performance theme, with subtle styling tweaks and enhanced driving dynamics.
Second Generation (2014–2019)
Introduction of the Second Generation (2014):
Bentley unveiled the second-generation Flying Spur in 2013, with production commencing in 2014. This model was built on the new MSB platform shared with the Bentley Continental GT and other models, representing a significant evolution in design, technology, and luxury.
Design and Features:
The 2014 Flying Spur showcased a more modern, streamlined exterior with sharper lines and a more imposing grille. The interior was redesigned to emphasize comfort, craftsmanship, and technology, with options for bespoke customization.
Powertrain Options:
The second-generation Flying Spur retained the 6.0-liter W12 engine but with improved outputs:
- Standard W12: 616 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque.
- Speed Version: Known as the Flying Spur Speed, producing 626 hp and 605 lb-ft, with enhancements for sharper handling and performance.
Model Variants and Trim Levels:
- Standard Flying Spur: The base model, offering luxury appointments, advanced infotainment, and driver assistance.
- Flying Spur Speed: The performance-focused variant, with sportier suspension, unique exterior styling cues, and increased power.
- V8 Variant (2019): Introduced later in the model’s lifecycle, featuring a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 521 hp and 502 lb-ft, aimed at offering a more efficient yet powerful alternative.
Luxury and Technology Packages:
Bentley offered several packages and options:
- Mulliner Driving Specification: Included quilted leather seats, embroidered headrests, unique stitching, and exterior styling enhancements.
- Luxury Specification: With premium interior materials, extensive wood or carbon fiber veneers, and advanced comfort features.
- Driver Assistance: Adaptive cruise control, night vision, and lane assist became standard or optional.
Special Editions:
- Bentley Flying Spur V8 S (2016): Featured a more aggressive front grille, unique wheels, and a sportier exhaust note.
- Bentley Flying Spur First Edition (2019): Limited to showcase bespoke features and exclusive interior trims, marking the end of the first production run of the second generation.
.
.
THIS could come in handy for your auto garage (and everywhere else!).
.
Third Generation (2020–Present)
Introduction of the Third Generation (2020):
Bentley launched the third-generation Flying Spur in 2020, marking a new chapter with a focus on technological innovation, increased comfort, and enhanced performance.
Platform and Design:
Built on the new Bentley Architecture platform, the third-generation Flying Spur features a striking, contemporary design with clean lines, a prominent grille, and a more aerodynamic profile. The interior is a showcase of craftsmanship, integrating advanced infotainment, digital displays, and bespoke options.
Powertrain Options:
- W12 Version: A 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine producing 626 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of approximately 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 207 mph.
- V8 Version: A 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering 542 hp and 568 lb-ft, with a 0-60 mph time of about 4.0 seconds.
- Hybrid (Planned): Bentley announced upcoming plug-in hybrid models as part of their electrification strategy.
Model Variants and Trim Levels:
- Bentley Flying Spur (Standard): Equipped with the latest luxury and technology features.
- Flying Spur V8: Sportier variant with V8 powertrain and unique styling cues.
- Flying Spur Speed: The top-tier performance model, with 626 hp, enhanced suspension, and bespoke features.
- Limited Editions and Customization: Bentley’s Mulliner division offers extensive bespoke options, including unique paint, interior materials, embroidery, and personalization.
Technological Innovations:
- Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen, advanced navigation, and premium audio systems.
- Driver Assistance: Adaptive cruise, night vision, lane assist, and parking assistance.
- Chassis and Handling: Adaptive air suspension, all-wheel drive, and dynamic stability controls for superior ride quality.
Special Editions and Notable Models:
- Bentley Flying Spur Azure: Celebrating open-top luxury with bespoke details.
- Bentley Flying Spur First Edition (2020): Limited to commemorate the launch of the third generation, featuring exclusive interior trims and badges.
- S Series: Enhanced sporty variants with subtle styling cues and performance upgrades.
Summary of Production Years and Models
| Generation | Years Produced | Notable Models/Trim Levels | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | 2005–2013 | Standard, Speed (2007, 2009) | W12 engine, luxury trims, optional packages |
| Second | 2014–2019 | Standard, Speed, V8, First Edition | MSB platform, increased power, luxury and sport trims |
| Third | 2020–Present | Standard, V8, Speed, Mulliner, First Edition | New architecture, advanced tech, hybrid plans |
Conclusion
The Bentley Flying Spur has evolved from a relatively straightforward luxury sedan into a pinnacle of bespoke craftsmanship, technological sophistication, and high-performance engineering. Each generation has brought improvements in design, comfort, and capability, reflecting Bentley’s commitment to exclusivity and innovation.
From its inception in 2005 to the latest models introduced in the 2020s, the Flying Spur continues to embody Bentley’s philosophy of blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Whether as a luxurious daily driver, a high-performance grand tourer, or a bespoke masterpiece, the Flying Spur remains a symbol of automotive excellence in the ultra-luxury sedan segment.
Note: Given the continuous updates and special editions released by Bentley, this overview captures the major milestones and model variants. For enthusiasts and prospective buyers, Bentley’s bespoke division, Mulliner, offers endless customization options, ensuring each Flying Spur is a unique masterpiece tailored to its owner’s preferences.
