There’s a meaner Bentley Flying Spur on the way and
our photographers spotted it completely undisguised. We’re talking about the Flying
Spur that wears the “Speed” moniker, traditionally used to designate the high-performance
variants of “regular” Bentley models. Obviously, the average Bentley customer
won’t need a quicker Flying Spur as the latest model is hardly a slouch.
Powered by a 635 PS 6.0-liter W12 engine,
the 2020 Flying Spur sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and tops out at 333 km/h. More demanding Bentley buyers
will be able to choose the Flying Spur Speed, which will bring not only
improved performance but also luxury, and exclusivity. That’s not all: there’s
a chance the upcoming Flying Spur Speed will feature hybrid technology.
If you look closely you’ll
notice an extra “fuel cap” on the left rear fender. Obviously, that’s not for
refueling with gasoline: it’s a charging port, suggesting the Flying Spur Speed
will feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The big question is which powertrain the super
luxury sedan will use and the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid may offer an
answer. The German model packs a total of 680 PS from a 550 PS 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and a 136 PS electric motor.
This powertrain would be the most logical choice as
the Flying Spur shares the same MSB platform with the Panamera. It would also
ensure performance worthy of the “Speed” badge and eco-friendly credentials. An
EV driving range of around 50 km should also represent an incentive
for some buyers.
Styling-wise, it’s quite hard to distinguish this
Speed model from the regular Flying Spur. Besides the charging port, the only
visible updates are the blacked-out mesh grille, blacked out front bumper air
intakes, and quad exhaust tips. Additionally, the car seems to ride lower
suggesting that a sportier suspension with a firmer setup has been fitted.
Expect the world debut of the Bentley Flying Spur
Speed to happen sometime in early 2020 if not later this year.
