Photo: Bentley/PA.
First Drive: Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid
By Jack Evans, PA Motoring Reporter
WHAT IS IT?
B entley and big engines have a history that goes back decades. Even today, Bentley’s V8 and W12 engines form a key part of its engine range, delivering that luxurious performance many buyers are after. But even Bentley has to acknowledge the future of motoring is electrification, which is why the Crewe outfit is continuing to explore alternatives. Following in the wake of the Bentayga Hybrid comes the Flying Spur Hybrid – a version of Bentley’s luxury saloon outfitted with a fuel-sipping petrol-electric setup. But can it deliver the kind of sumptuous experience Flying Spur customers are traditionally after?
WHAT’S NEW?
From the outside at least,this Flying Spur gives away very little about its hybrid underpinnings. Sure, there are some small ‘Hybrid’ badges on the flanks, but it’s a car that doesn’t shout loudly about its electrical assistance. Inside, you’ve got the same ultra-luxurious cabin as you’d find on the regular Spur, albeit with a few hybrid-specific driving mode buttons. The Flying Spur, despite its switch in powertrain, still has a firm focus on comfort and refinement. This new Hybrid version, it should be mentioned, doesn’t replace existing petrol-powered versions but acts as an addition to the range for now.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
With its promise of being the ‘most environmentally friendly Bentley to date’, the Flying Spur comes complete with a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine, which is then linked to 100kW electric motor. Combined, you get 536bhp and 750Nm of torque, with zero to 60mph taking 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 177mph possible if you have the space and ability to do so.
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