Bentley Flying Spur W12 BSIV

Flying Spur W12 BSIV Review

The Bentley brand is one of the globally renowned ones in the car making world. Based in Britain, the company specializes in the luxury division, and one of its most prominent models is the Flying spur. The model was originally released in 2006, and it bore the name 'Continental Flying Spur' at the time of its initial release. However, in 2014, a revised version of the vehicle was launched, with the Continental title omitted from its name. Signature improvements that the new model received included an eight speed transmission, while its engine remained the same. Among the variants available for the model, there is the Bentley Flying Spur W12. The car is armed with a 12 cylinder engine that facilitates good performance. It can touch a top speed of 320kmph which is marvelous. Additionally, it can rush from stall to 100kmph within just 9.5 seconds. Coming to its exterior build, the car has a graceful and attractive shape for a more modern pose. Its exterior dimensions make for overall harmony. It stretches for a length of 5295mm, along with a width of 2208mm including its mirrors. It stands with a height of 1488mm. A wheelbase of 3065mm enables spacious interiors for the occupants. Turning to the interiors of the model, there are themes of luxury and elegance that outline the cabin, making for a rich drive experience. In addition to this, the comfort and entertainment requirements of the passengers are also met, with a range of good functions that cater to the passengers' satisfaction.

Exteriors:

It has a steel monocoque body structure that gives it an edge in terms of design. At the front, a bright chrome radiator matrix grille adds beauty to the front facet. This is flanked on either side by stylish jewel front headlamps that are incorporated with Bi-Xenon projector lamps, along with LED main beam support function for optimal visibility. The hood is toned and muscular, with finely sculpted lines that improve the rigidity of its build. At the bottom, the wide air intake provides cooling to the vehicle's engine, and also elevates its distinctive look. Coming to the side facet, the wheel fenders are delicately designed, and beneath them, the three-spoke design alloy wheels are painted and bright machined for a more outstanding look. The sharp edges and the graceful body lines accentuate its sporty look. The side feature line runs parallel to the roof, stretching from the rear wheel arch to the front. A strong rear haunch further adds to visual aesthetics that the vehicle makes for. Coming to the tail section, there are good looking wraparound tail lights which are complete with LED function. The composite boot lid has an integrated antenna. At the bottom, the twin oval exhaust tailpipes add flavor to the vehicle's design.

Interiors:

The seat arrangement ensures maximum space and comfort for all of the occupants. At the front, there are twin front armrests for convenient arm placement of the front passengers. Furthermore, there are headrests for all of the passengers, giving support to the head. The seats are covered with luxurious leather upholstery that is individually sewn, hand fitted and signed by the upholsterer at the back of the hide for a distinctive statement. The hide and chrome trimmed gear lever further adds luxury value to the cabin. A quality Burr Walnut veneer is present on the fascia panels, console and mirror-matched waist-rails. There is a dashboard mounted clock for the benefit of the passengers. The 'bullseye' air conditioning vents have chrome organ stop controls for a more prominent feel. Besides all of this, the customer is given an additional choice of 17 hide colors to further decorate the cabin.

Engine and Performance:

The vehicle is powered by a 6.0-litre W12 engine. The drive-train is further equipped with two parallel turbochargers and a direct inter-cooling system. It has four valves per cylinder, fitted through the overhead camshaft system along with cam phasing. The engine displaces 59886cc. Furthermore, it gives a power output of 616bph at 6000rpm, and 800Nm at 2000rpm. It is joint with an eight speed transmission that has block shifting function, giving smooth and efficient transmission.

Braking and Handling:

Firstly, there are cast iron disc brakes that ensure a good level of control throughout. At the front, there are 405mm ventilated iron discs, while the rear brakes are armed with 335mm ventilated discs. The braking quality is further improved with the presence of 8 piston calipers, which assist in the braking and cornering function. As for the suspension, the car gets a touring suspension set up, along with electronic height adjustment facility to promote a comfortable and strain free drive. The front axle of the chassis is armed with a four link double wishbone system, which is present along with an anti roll bar for increased ride stability. At the rear axle, there is a trapezoidal multi link system along with an anti roll bar as well.

Comfort Features:

For the entertainment needs of the passengers, there is an Infotainment system that comes along with an 8 inch high resolution screen, radio function and a single CD/DVD slot for optimal passenger satisfaction. The cabin also provides MP3 and iPod connectivity, offering a more wholesome entertainment experience. The car also has Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for musical streaming through Bluetooth enabled devices and for call hosting within the cabin. This is further aided with a WiFi hotspot present within the cabin, which provides internet access for tablets, laptops and phones. A touch screen remote is offered at the back console, which allows controls to the multimedia system, navigation system, climate settings, seat heating and ventilation. The front seats have a 14 way adjustable function, along with heating, lumbar support and memory function. The air conditioning system goes along with a multi zone climate control feature for an improved drive environment. There are two 12V sockets, allowing for charging devices within the cabin.

Safety Features:

There are individual seat airbags for the driver and front passenger. An anti lock braking system enables good control when braking. Furthermore, electronic brake-force distribution and hydraulic brake assistance functions are also present, ensuring a solid ride stability throughout. There are seatbelts to keep the occupants well secured through the course of the drive.

Pros:

1. Attractive look and body format.

2. Elegant and comfortable interiors.

Cons:

1. Its price may deter buyers.

2. The cabin's convenience functions have room for improvement.