Review: Bentley Flying Spur – Where Opulence Meets Audacity

The 2024 Bentley Flying Spur Speed W12 is a car that needs very little by way of how-do-you-dos. It’s a 3-tonne rolling love letter to luxury, performance, presence and exclusivity. A wolf in sheep’s clothing, or perhaps more accurately, a lion in a tailored velvet suit. In a world increasingly focused on efficiency and technology, the Flying Spur Speed stands proud as a defiant champion of old-world craftsmanship and unapologetic power – thanks to its Anglo-German makers. But does it hold its own against the tides of woke progress, or is it merely a relic of a bygone era? Buckle up as we delve into the soul of this automotive behemoth.

Design: Grandiose Elegance

From the moment you look at the Flying Spur Speed, there’s no mistaking its lineage. The Bentley design language is instantly recognisable, with its grille measured in acres, flowing lines, and muscular haunches. This Speed W12 iteration, however, exudes an aggressive aura, thanks to the dark exterior accents, larger air intakes, massive brakes, and subtle carbon fibre touches. It’s a car that demands attention but does so with the sophistication of a Japanese timepiece, not the ostentation of a flashing neon sign.

The interior is where the Flying Spur Speed truly shines. Stepping inside is akin to entering a Gulfstream G650 private jet. Every surface is swathed in the finest leather, hand-stitched with meticulous precision. The diamond-quilted seats are more akin to armchairs than car seats, offering unparalleled comfort and support. The piano-black wood veneers are flawless, and the metalwork gleams with a subtle sheen. Technology is present but integrated seamlessly, never overshadowing the craftsmanship. It’s a symphony of materials and textures, a testament to Bentley’s dedication to detail.

Performance: A Paradox on Wheels

Under the bonnet lies the beast’s beating heart: a monstrous 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine. This titan produces a staggering 467kW and 900 Nm of torque, propelling this behemoth from 0 to 60 mph in a mind-bending 3.7 seconds. The top speed? If you must know, it’s 333km/h, a number that seems more suited to a fighter jet than a luxury sedan.

But here’s the paradox: despite its monstrous capabilities, the Flying Spur Speed can be surprisingly docile. In Comfort mode around town, the air suspension floats over my suburb’s numerous and annoying speed bumps, the engine hums quietly, and the steering is light and effortless. It’s a serene cocoon, isolating you from the chaos of the outside world. Sitting in the back, one merely presses a button to raise the blinds on the rear door windows and rear window to disconnect even further.

However, twist the polished aluminium drive mode dial to Sport, and the car transforms. The suspension stiffens, butterfly valves in the exhaust system open, 12-cylinders snarl, and the steering becomes sharp and responsive. The power delivery is immediate and exhilarating, pinning you to your seat with the force of a Saturn V rocket. It’s a stark reminder that one of the most powerful engines available today sits beneath the luxurious facade. Soon, perhaps to be a thing of the past? I hope not.

Technology: A Touch of Modernity

In a car like this, technology often takes a back seat. However, Bentley hasn’t neglected it entirely. Quite the opposite actually. The Flying Spur Speed boasts a fully digital instrument cluster with Night Vision, a large touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a plethora of driver-assistance features.

By my count, over twenty manual buttons surround the gear selector with more on the dash below the tri-face rotating display. Choose from a 12.3″ touchscreen, three old-school analogue dials (compass, chronometer, and outside temp) or more high-gloss carbon fibre. While the system isn’t the most cutting-edge, it’s functional and seamlessly integrated, maintaining the car’s overall aesthetic.

Sound system.

All wheel drive system

The Verdict: A Statement, Not Just a Car

The 2023 Bentley Flying Spur Speed W12 is not a car for everyone. Its starting price of over $260,000 puts it firmly in the realm of the ultra-wealthy. Its fuel economy is atrocious, and its practicality is questionable at best. Yet, the Flying Spur Speed is a masterpiece for those who can afford it and appreciate what it represents. It’s a statement of success, a rolling testament to human craftsmanship, and a reminder that sometimes, excess can be an art form.

Is it worth it? That depends entirely on your priorities. Look elsewhere if you’re looking for the most efficient, technologically advanced, or practical car. But if you seek a unique blend of unparalleled luxury, effortless performance, and timeless elegance, the Flying Spur Speed might be your automotive soulmate. Remember, great power comes great responsibility and a hefty gas bill.

In Conclusion:

The 2023 Bentley Flying Spur Speed W12 is a car that defies categorization. It’s a paradox on wheels, a luxury sedan with the soul of a sports car, a technological marvel wrapped in timeless craftsmanship. It’s a statement, an indulgence, and an experience. Whether you admire it from afar or have the privilege of sitting behind the wheel, one thing is undeniable: the Flying Spur Speed is a force to be reckoned with, a testament to the enduring allure of automotive excess.