Bentley Flying Spur 2013-2019: Complete Review And Buyer’s Guide

The Bentley Flying Spur from 2013 to 2019 stands as a benchmark in the luxury saloon segment, offering an exquisite blend of handcrafted elegance, prodigious power, and effortless grand touring capability. Built on an extended platform derived from the Continental GT, this four-door model delivers space for five passengers without sacrificing the brand’s signature opulence or athleticism. With options for a potent 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 or the mighty 6.0-liter W12, it caters to those seeking both serene cruising and explosive acceleration.

Design and Exterior Styling

Measuring 486mm longer than its GT coupe sibling, the Flying Spur’s elongated body provides generous rear legroom while retaining Bentley’s iconic design language. Its exterior exudes presence with a bold chrome grille, matrix LED headlights, and sculpted lines that emphasize its muscular stance. The 2013-2019 models feature a smart, understated elegance—avoiding ostentation yet commanding attention on any road. Aerodynamic tweaks and 19-inch wheels with optimized sidewalls contribute to both visual appeal and ride refinement.

Available in Mulliner specifications, buyers could personalize with diamond-quilted accents and bespoke paint finishes, ensuring each car felt uniquely tailored. The fastback roofline and integrated rear spoiler maintain a coupe-like profile, making it 2.5 tonnes of visual drama.

Powertrain Options and Performance

At the heart of the Flying Spur’s appeal are its twin powertrains, both paired with all-wheel drive and quick-shifting automatics for seamless power delivery.

• 4.0-Liter Twin-Turbo V8: Producing 500bhp and 660Nm, it propels the car from 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds (or 4.9 seconds in later tunes) with a top speed of 183mph. This engine offers a progressive surge, ideal for those balancing performance and relative efficiency at around 14mpg combined.
• 6.0-Liter Twin-Turbo W12: The flagship delivers 616bhp (up to 626bhp in S guise) and 800Nm, achieving 0-62mph in 4.4-4.9 seconds and a staggering 200mph top speed. Despite its weight, the rear-biased 40:60 torque split ensures planted, turbine-like propulsion.

Higher-output S variants further honed agility, with the V8 S proving quickest in independent tests. An eight-speed automatic replaced earlier six-speed units in updates, enhancing responsiveness.

Data compiled from period reviews; real-world economy varies with driving style.

Chassis Dynamics and Driving Experience

Despite its luxury focus, the Flying Spur surprises with capable handling. Air suspension with adaptive dampers offers four modes, softening for isolation or firming for cornering. A more rigid chassis, acoustic glass, and revised exhaust minimize noise and vibrations, creating a near-silent cabin.

Steering provides precise feedback, and massive brakes haul the mass to a stop confidently. It’s not a sports sedan but excels at high-speed stability, making motorways feel effortless. The V8 models edge ahead in agility due to front-end lightness. Owners praise its ability to transform commutes into events, blending low-level flight smoothness with rapid overtakes.

Interior Refinement and Comfort

Bentley’s cabin mastery shines here, with diamond-quilted leather, veneer inlays, and knurled controls. Rear seats adjust in 14 ways, with heating, ventilation, and individual climate zones. Four- or five-seat layouts accommodate families or VIPs, plus optional entertainment screens.

Front seats are deeply bolstered yet massaging, while the boot swallows 16.7 cubic feet—ample for luggage, though rivals like the Mercedes S-Class edge it slightly. Soundproofing via double glazing and foam-insulated panels ensures serenity at triple-digit speeds.

Technology and Features

Nav systems with touchscreens, Naim audio, and rotating displays (in later years) equip the Spur for modern demands. Driver aids include adaptive cruise, night vision, and lane assist. However, paddle shifters drew criticism for their feel.

• Standard: 19-inch alloys, air suspension, AWD, leather/Alcantara.
• Options: Rear entertainment, Mulliner pack, touring spec.

Ownership Costs and Reliability

Priced from £130,000 new (up to £200,000+ for W12), running expenses are steep: expect high fuel, insurance, and servicing bills. Tyres and brakes wear quickly under spirited use. Reliability improved over predecessors, but electronics and turbos demand specialist care. Used examples now offer value, starting around £40,000 for high-mileage V8s.

Three-year unlimited-mile warranty provided peace, but post-warranty costs soar. Fuel at 11-19mpg city/highway underscores its thirst.

Market Position and Rivals

The Flying Spur slots above the Audi A8 or BMW 7-Series but competes with Rolls-Royce Ghost for ultimate luxury. Its driver engagement sets it apart from pure limo rivals, appealing to those wanting GT thrills in saloon form.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2013-2019 Flying Spur reliable?

Improved over prior generations with better build quality, but complex engines require diligent maintenance. Check service history.

What’s the best engine choice?

V8 for balance of power and economy; W12 for raw drama.

How does it compare to the Continental GT?

Extra doors and space; same platform and engines, but tuned for limousine poise.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Around 14mpg combined; not for the efficiency-focused.

Should I buy one used?

Yes, for later models (2016+) with updates. Budget for upkeep.

Final Verdict

The 2013-2019 Bentley Flying Spur redefines luxury saloons, marrying 200mph capability with whisper-quiet comfort. Ideal for affluent buyers prioritizing craftsmanship and pace over frugality.