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Bentley Flying Spur: generations, engines and trims
The Bentley Flying Spur is a four-door luxury sedan built on the Continental GT platform. We look at three generations, W12, V8 and hybrid engines, version differences and what to check before buying a used Flying Spur.
The Flying Spur in brief
The Flying Spur is a four-door sedan that combines luxurious interior comfort with sporty driving. The first generation debuted in 2005 and was known as the Continental Flying Spur until 2013, when the name was shortened to Flying Spur.
This car is for those who appreciate luxury and comfort but don't want something even larger and more expensive like the Mulsanne. All generations of the Flying Spur come with all-wheel drive, making them suitable for Lithuanian winters.
Which generation to choose
The first generation (2005–2013) features a 6.0-litre W12 twin-turbo engine (around 560 hp, around 610 hp in the Speed version). This is the most affordable way to own a Flying Spur, but often requires a larger repair budget.
The second generation (2013–2019) comes with an improved W12 and, for the first time, a 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine (around 500 hp). The third generation (from 2019) was built on a new platform: a modern interior with a rotating screen, W12, V8 and a plug-in hybrid. This generation is the most modern, but also the most expensive.
Engines and transmissions
The W12 (6.0-litre twin-turbo) offered roughly 550–650 hp depending on the generation and version. The V8 (4.0-litre twin-turbo, of Audi group lineage) is more economical and lighter. In the third generation, a plug-in hybrid with a V6 (around 540 hp system power) appeared, followed by an even more powerful V8 hybrid.
In earlier generations, the gearbox was a ZF automatic, while in the third, it's an 8-speed dual-clutch. All-wheel drive is standard.
What to check when buying a used Flying Spur
The most crucial element is the air suspension: its dampers and compressor wear out over time, and repairs are expensive. Check if the car maintains the correct ride height and if there are any suspension issues.
Also, inspect the W12 or V8 engine's oil and cooling systems, electronic equipment, and service history. For third-generation models, inquire about software updates and the condition of the hybrid system.
Versions
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Flying Spur V8
From 2013 onwardsA more economical version with a 4.0-litre V8 engine.
- 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8
- All-wheel drive
- Often – leather and wood trim in the cabin
Flying Spur W12
In several generationsThe classic version with a 6.0-litre W12 engine.
- 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12
- Often — more comfort and luxury features
- Often — larger wheels
Flying Spur Speed
In several generationsA sportier W12 version with more power.
- More power than the standard W12
- Often — sportier interior
- Often — larger wheels
Flying Spur Hybrid
from 2021A plug-in hybrid with a V6 engine.
- V6 with an electric motor
- Can be driven on electric power alone
- Lower fuel consumption in the city
A comparison of Flying Spur versions
| V8 | W12 | Speed | Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For daily use | For luxurious comfort | For sportier driving | Lower urban running costs |
| Commonly found in classifieds | 19–21 inches | 20–21 inches | 21–22 inches | 20–21 inches |
| Interior | Leather and wood trim | Leather and wood trim | Sportier interior | Leather and wood trim |
| Engine | 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo | 6.0-litre W12 twin-turbo | 6.0-litre W12 twin-turbo, higher output | V6 hybrid |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ |
Most buyers' best bet is the V8. W12 and Speed are worth considering for prestige and power, while the hybrid is ideal if you do a lot of city driving and can charge up.
Pros
- Luxurious and quiet interior
- Wide range of engines — from V8 to W12 and hybrid
- All-wheel drive is standard
- Comfortable for both driver and passengers
Cons
- Very expensive maintenance and repairs
- Air suspension issues in older models
- Large dimensions and high fuel consumption
Frequently asked questions
Which Flying Spur generation is best to buy used?
If you want the most affordable price — go for the first generation, but plan for extra repair costs. The third generation offers the most modern features.
How does the V8 differ from the W12?
The V8 is lighter and more economical, while the W12 offers more power and a more luxurious character. The V8 is sufficient for most buyers.
Is the Flying Spur suitable for daily use?
Yes, it's comfortable and spacious, but maintenance is expensive and the dimensions are large.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
