The Bentley Flying Spur V8 is now available as an alternative to the iconic W12. Hailed as “the best luxury sedan in the world” is now available with a 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine develops 542 bhp (550 PS) and 568 lb.ft (770 Nm) of torque. This engine is capable of 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds) with a top speed of 198 mph (318 km/h).

The reason for the introduction of V8 engine is the research from the last ten years which shows a significant shift in the usage of the Flying Spur from chauffeur-driven owners to customers driving themselves with passengers accompanying them.

Changes with the new V8 heart

The Flying Spur V8 offers a more driver-centric experience via increased agility and more characterful engine note, whilst benefiting from an increased range between fuel stops and a reduction in CO₂ emissions. To maximize fuel economy, the V8 can shut down four of its eight cylinders under light-load conditions, when torque demand is below 235 Nm and engine speed is below 3000 rpm. The change is imperceptible to the occupants – with deactivation times of around 20 milliseconds (a tenth of the time it takes to blink).

The Flying Spur V8 is 100 kg lighter than the W12 version. Also, includes Adaptive Air Suspension, Torque Vectoring by Brake, Drive Dynamics Control, and Electric Steering, all of which are standard features. Furthermore, customers can add Bentley’s pioneering 48V electric active anti-roll technology (Bentley Dynamic Ride), and Electronic All-Wheel Steering for even greater agility.

Flying Spur V8, is available in both four-seat or five-seat configurations, incorporates a class-leading portfolio of intelligent and intuitive equipment and technology tailored to the driver and passengers. The industry-first Bentley Rotating Display is also available on the new Flying Spur V8, including Apple CarPlay®, photorealistic landscapes through satellite maps and advance warning of changing road or traffic conditions via the local hazard information service.

New V8 Powertrain

• A key feature of the twin-scroll turbochargers is the two separate, parallel flow channels in the turbine housing. The result is high torque available at low speeds.
• Turbos are located inside the ‘V’ of the engine, minimising the distance the exhaust gases travel from the engine to the turbochargers, promoting rapid response and high–efficiency.
• To withstand higher stress and bore wear, the cylinder bores are iron coated using an atmospheric plasma spraying process creating a coating that is robust yet just 150 microns thick.
• The 90 degree “V” configuration, cross-plane crankshaft and eight perfectly balanced cylinders give the engine its characteristic and unmistakable V8 engine sound.

At Present the Bentley Flying Spur V8 is not available in India, a statement from the company is pending on its launch in India.