Just a week after they revealed the Continental GT and GTC S, Bentley is now completing the S family of models by bringing the same “dramatic visual presence and heightened aural drama” to the Flying Spur, with a new driver-focused S model for the four-door sedan.
Much like the Continental GT, the S treatment on the Bentley Flying Spur is largely just a styling exercise. It’s characterised by the “black brightware” (i.e. chrome delete) all around, with only the Bentley badge and lettering on the bootlid as the only shiny items remaining on the exterior.
The headlights and taillights are also tinted for a sportier look, and – perhaps more importantly – the Bentley Flying Spur S is also distinguished by two unique alloy wheel options in either 21- or 22-inches, with the red brake callipers peeking out from beneath.
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Inside, there’s a new two-tone combination upholstery, with leather used on the seat bolsters, door pads, and dashboard, while the suede-like Dinamica microfibre covers the steering wheel, gear lever, and seat cushions.
The seats are fluted as standard, but quilting is also available as an option if you’re looking for a little more sophistication in your ride, while the S badge (or alternatively the Bentley wings) are embroidered on the headrests. Other unique interior details include new graphics on the instrument cluster borrowed from the Continental GT Speed, a metal S badge on the dashboard, and illuminated ‘S’ door sill plates.
Despite being dubbed as the driver-focused model, the Bentley Flying Spur S unfortunately gets no increase in power. It is, however, offered in two powertrain options – a V8 option and a 2.9-litre V6 hybrid, making it the first time in the company’s history that an S model is applied to a hybrid product.
The former gets a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine underneath its bonnet, with 550 hp and 770 Nm on tap allowing for a century sprint time of four seconds and a top speed of 319 km/h (198 mph). The hybrid meanwhile combines a 2.9-litre V6 with an electric motor for a total of 544 hp and 750 Nm of torque, which translates to a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.1 seconds, while also giving it a 41 km EV range.
Although power output is not increased, the sportier Flying Spur does at least get enhanced handling chops, thanks to the Dynamic Ride 48V system and electronic all-wheel steering that comes as standard with the S badge. The former uses an electrical system to apply up to 1,300 Nm of anti-roll torque in 0.3 seconds to keep the body flat and stable under spirited cornering.
Additionally, the V8 models also get a redesigned sports exhaust for added “aural pleasure”, but unfortunately those who go with the Hybrid S will need to settle for “sound enhancements” (read: fake noise through the speakers) that’s only available in Sport mode.
The Bentley Flying Spur S, together with the rest of the S family, will make an appearance at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed that’s happening from 23 to 26 June, with the Flying Spur, GT, and GTC models taking part in the famous hill climb run as part of the First Glance class.
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