Flying Spur S updated for Goodwood

BENTLEY is adding a new S-badged model to its Flying Spur range for 2023.

The model brings what the Crewe-based firm says is increased dynamic ability, dramatic visual presence and heightened aural drama to further enhance its luxury sedan.

Offered for the first time with a hybridised 2.9-litre V6, which produces 400kW and 750Nm, the Flying Spur Hybrid S is claimed to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds – just one-tenth of a second slower than the twin-turbocharged V8. Capable of travelling up to 41km on electric power alone, and with a CO2 emissions figure of 75 grams per kilometre (WLTP), the plug-in hybrid Flying Spur Hybrid S is the most efficient Bentley yet.

The Porsche-sourced engine, which also features in the Panamera Hybrid variant, features a 100kW electric motor that is mated to a 14.1kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

Bentley will continue to offer the Flying Spur with a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, however; the eight-cylinder motor is paired to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and develops 404kW and 770Nm and the all-wheel-drive model is said to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 4.0 seconds and achieve a top speed of 320km/h. .

There is no S version of the Flying Spur equipped with a 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12.

Bentley’s revered W-configuration motor, which features 48V mild-hybrid technology and produces 485kW/900Nm is on borrowed time as ever-stricter emissions regulations take their toll. The W12 engine comprises four banks of three cylinders with each double bank set at a 72-degree angle. The undersquare powerplant is fed by a pair of turbochargers and features continuous variable valve timing, electronically controlled Bosch throttle bodies, as well as combination multipoint and direct fuel injection.

Meanwhile, the Flying Spur S (V8) features as standard Bentley’s 48V Dynamic Ride active anti-roll system “to keep the body flat and stable under spirited cornering”, electronic all-wheel steering, and a redesigned sports exhaust system. Not to be outdone, the Flying Spur Hybrid S is also equipped with what Bentley calls “ingenious sound enhancements” that deliver a “sporting character” when driving in Sport mode.

As was the case with Bentley’s recently revealed Continental GT S and GT S Convertible, the Flying Spur S features blackened exterior brightware, gloss-black lower bumper grilles, dark tinted head- and taillights, black quad-pipe exhaust outlets and an S badge on the front guards. The grille, likewise, is finished in gloss black with vertical vanes and a gloss-black surround. Only the winged Bentley badges retain their bright chrome finish.

The S range is offered with 22-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels in gloss black or Pale Brodgar Satin or 21-inch wheels in a tri-spoke design with gloss-black or bright machined finishes. The brake calipers are finished in contrasting bright red paint.

Inside, the Flying Spur S is offered with a range of two-tone colour splits that are handcrafted in the leather shop at Crewe using a combination of smooth hide and soft-napped Dinamica. The suede-like material features on the heated steering wheel, transmission lever, seat cushions and seat backrests while leather hide is employed across the seat bolsters, door pads, instrument cowl and around the centre console.

The seat design of the S sees a fluted finish with quilting available as an option. The S moniker is embroidered on each head restraint (with embroidered Bentley wings available as a no-cost option). Performance-focused instrumentation graphics and S sill covers also feature, as they do in the Continental GT S and GT S Convertible variants.

Bentley’s new Flying Spur S model range will debut at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed from June 23-26.

Bentley says the Flying Spur Hybrid S and Flying Spur S will be available in Australia in the first quarter of next year and that pricing will be advised closer to the model's launch.