Bentley is completing the S family of models with the Flying Spur S that will make its public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The sportier variant of the luxury sedan is available in both V8 and Hybrid forms. Those wanting a sportier W12 model can opt for the range-topping Speed model.
Interestingly, this is not the first time we see the Flying Spur S. A video of the model was accidentally posted on Bentley’s official website during the launch of the Continental GT and GTC S last week. Still, we are talking about a new trim level so don’t expect that many visual differences from the existing members of the Flying Spur range.
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Starting with the exterior, the S is characterised by the black brightware all around the bodywork (grille, intakes, side gills, mirrors, tailpipes, etc) with the exception of the Bentley ornament, badge, and lettering. More importantly, the S is distinguished by two unique alloy wheel options coming with a diameter of 21 inches or 22 inches, the red brake callipers, and the S badge on the front fenders. Last but not least the headlights and the taillights are tinted for a sportier look.
Inside the cabin, there is hand-crafted leather combined with suede-like Dinamica on the steering wheel, gearknob, and seats. The sports seats are fluted with optional quilting and the S badge or Bentley wings embroidered on the headrests. Other details include the new graphics on the instrument cluster borrowed from the Continental GT Speed, the S badge on the dashboard, and the illuminated Bentley S treadplates.
Unlike the Continental GT and the Bentayga, where the S variant is only available with the V8 engine, the Flying Spur S offers the option between the V8 and the Hybrid (PHEV). The former is fitted with the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 producing 550 PS and 770 Nm of torque, allowing a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4 seconds and a top speed of 198 mph. The hybrid combines the 2.9-liter V6 with an electric motor producing 536 hp (544 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque, completing the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 4.1 seconds. This however also gets a 41 km (26 mile) EV range and the title of the most efficient Bentley.
The aforementioned figures are identical to the non-S models but the sporty nature of the luxury sedan is enhanced thanks to the Bentley Dynamic Ride 48V system and the Electronic All-wheel Steering coming as standard with the S badge. Additionally, the V8 model gets a redesigned sports exhaust while owners of the Hybrid S will have to settle with simple “sound enhancements” when on Sport mode.
The entire S range of models (Continental GT/GTC S, Flying Spur S, Bentayga S), will make an appearance at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed on June 23-26, with the low-riding models joining the famous hill climb.