New Bentley Flying Spur S Is Built For Enthusiasts

Last week Bentley introduced more driver-focused versions of the Continental GT and Continental GTC. Both cars wear a simple "S" badge. Today Bentley announced the final addition to the new "S" range, based on the beautiful Flying Spur.

Unlike the two-door and drop-top models, customers can opt for the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 or a V6 hybrid engine. This is the first time a hybrid model will carry the "S" designation.

This S model also splits the Flying Spur range into two clear camps. On one side, Bentley has the Azure, which, according to the British manufacturer, "emphasizes wellbeing behind the wheel." Standing opposite that is the S, "expanding the visual, tactile and aural enhancements to the driving experience."

The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8's outputs remain unchanged as it produces 542 horsepower and 567 lb-ft of torque. But in the S, it benefits from a standard sports exhaust, which should make the already spirited V8 soundtrack even more delightful. The hybrid option combines a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor, producing 536 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque.

According to Bentley, the V8 can get to 62 mph in four seconds flat and tops out at 198 mph, while the hybrid takes just one-tenth of a second longer. The hybrid has the added benefit of 26 miles of all-electric driving. The choice is yours.

Both cars come standard with Bentley Dynamic Ride and all-wheel steering. The former can apply anti-roll torque to the wheels within 0.3 seconds to keep the car flat through a corner. It's also responsible for retaining that glorious floating sensation by decoupling the wheels across each axle

To make the Flying Spur S look as menacing as possible, Bentley removes all the bright polished metal on the outside. According to the Brits, this forces the eyes to perceive the Flying Spur as lower and wider.

Instead of polished metal, the S uses black. It has gloss black lower bumper grilles, dark-tinted headlamps and rear lights, black tailpipe finishers, and model-specific black S badges.

The most prominent exterior features are the gloss black grille with black vertical vanes and the available gloss black alloy wheels. All models get red brake calipers, contrasting beautifully with the predominantly black exterior.

Only the winged Bentley badge and lettering on the trunk lid stand out with their bright chrome finish.

On the inside, customers can choose from Bentley's two-tone leather options. Soft-napped Dinamica is used on the heated steering wheel, gear lever, seat cushions, and seat backrests. Bentley's finest leather is used on the seat bolsters, door pads, the instrument panel, and around the console.

The seats in the S are fluted, but quilting is available as an option. To differentiate it from other models, the "S" emblem is embroidered on the headrest of each seat. Customers can also add embroidered Bentley Wings at no extra cost.

Drivers will enjoy the instrumentation borrowed from the Continental GT Speed. Finally, there's a metal S badge on the fascia and illuminated treadplates with an S where you'd usually find the word, Bentley.

The Flying Spur S will make its debut upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed, running from 23-26 June, where examples of all these new models will participate in the famous hill climb event.