2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid

When big names like Bentley embrace eco-consciousness and commit to reducing emissions by hybridizing its luxury cruisers, it's time to sit up and take note. As part of its Beyond100 plan, the esteemed marque introduces the Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid as an affirmation of the mission to fully hybridize its range. The Flying Spur Hybrid joins the Bentayga Hybrid as stepping stones to a fully electrified range by 2030.

Powering the plug-in hybrid is a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that's been augmented with an advanced electric motor and a 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. The 536 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque it conjures up is forwarded through an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to an all-wheel-drive system. This powertrain bestows the Flying Spur Hybrid with a 4.1-second 0 to 60 mph acceleration time, just a smidge slower than the gas-only V8 model. Although there are no official figures from the EPA, the manufacturer promises this will be the most fuel-efficient Bentley yet. While there aren't any direct competitors to the Flying Spur in its hybrid form, its typical rivals include the Rolls-Royce Ghost, Mercedes-Maybach S, and BMW Alpina B7, all of which are incredibly alluring as is. Will a hybrid ultra-luxury sedan be able to steal the limelight?

As with any Bentley, the benefits of ownership are not limited to just status and prestige. The 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid has so much more to offer, even though it's far and away not the most eco-friendly sedan from the marque. It still has loads of power on tap with the manufacturer claiming much-improved gas mileage figures which we'd love to see ourselves in real-life applications. And the plug-in powertrain doesn't come at a compromise in terms of refinement or ride quality. It's not quite as quick as the gas-powered variants, but is a huge step forward for the brand's commitment to going green while still keeping the Bentley experience at the forefront.

Of course, the Flying Spur Hybrid is extensively kitted out with all the best in technology and conveniences from the outset, along with the finest in cabin materials and upholstery. The rear seats are a particularly exquisite place to be with their Alcantara headrest cushions and heating and ventilation functions. As with most expensive, high-end vehicles, the Flying Spur Hybrid hasn't undergone review for its crashworthiness, but with Bentley's proficiency in building high-quality vehicles and the Flying Spur's extensive inclusion of safety features, we'd rest assured knowing the Flying Spur Hybrid is a safe place to be. Ultimately, the Flying Spur Hybrid is a quintessential Bentley and an impressive high-end plug-in hybrid. If you're looking for a classy sedan with bragging rights that span beyond just its opulence, it's a certainly fine choice.

Although official pricing had not been released at the time of writing, Bentley has stated that the cost will be around 3% higher than the regular gas-engined models. This means the Flying Spur Hybrid should have an MSRP of around $208,000, which will rapidly increase as you add options and customize it to your whims. This price excludes Bentley's $2,725 destination fee. The special Odyssean Edition will naturally cost a lot more, although exactly how much is still unknown - and, as it will be available in limited numbers, it's likely these models will be snatched up before they even officially go on sale.