Making its debut in Geneva, the 2017 Bentley Flying Spur V8 S expands the automaker’s most affordable luxury sedan lineup with a new model that slots between existing V8 and W12 variants. This latest addition rolls into showrooms in late summer with more power, greater responsiveness and enhanced handling complemented cosmetic touches to set it apart from a standard Flying Spur V8.
More muscle, better hustle
An efficient retuning of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S model bumps horsepower from 500 to 521 and raises peak torque from 487 to 502 lb-ft — which still remains on hand from just 1,700 rpm. Throttle response also is quicker and flicking the 8-speed multimode automatic transmission into Sport now locks out the top gear. The S-spec engine retains its ability to run on just four cylinders under light loads, and despite the added might — which can send this new Bentley 4-door streaking from 0-62 mph in just 4.9 seconds and hit a top end of 190 mph — maintains the same fuel economy.
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Although the 40/60 front/rear torque bias on its all-wheel drive system is the same as on a standard Flying Spur V8, the S-spec chassis tuning benefits from a recalibration of its Continuous Damping Control system that improves handling precision without impacting ride comfort. The electronic stability control also gets more enthusiast-oriented programming that allows for a greater degree of wheel slip before making any interventions and quicker power pickup after it does step in to make any calculated saves. The capable brakes on the V8 S also can be upgraded to carbon-ceramic super-stoppers complete with red or black painted calipers.
Cranking up curb appeal
A number of cues set the new Flying Spur V8 S apart, starting with a black matrix grille insert and a gloss Beluga finish on the rear diffuser plus 20-inch open-spoke painted wheels like those found on the Continental GT V8 S and bespoke badging. Buyers also can opt to fit dark-tint front/rear lights, gloss black mirrors and 21-inch Mulliner Driving Specification black-and-bright machined 6-spoke alloys.
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Inside, the V8 S sports similar distinctive trim elements in its hand-crafted cabin that start with Piano Black wood veneers, a 3-spoke sport steering wheel and a knurled texture on the shift lever and paddles. The V8 S seats are covered in 2-tone leather set off with a contrasting center bow in the headliner. Those seeking a more personal touch can step up to semi-aniline hides as well as a Mulliner Driving Specification package that swaps the normal straight-line sew patterns for a diamond-quilted motif. Deliveries of the new 2017 Bentley Flying Spur V8 S are set to begin sometime this summer, and pricing will be revealed closer to that time.
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