2021 Bentley Flying Spur

Bentley’s high-performance ultra-luxury cars and SUVs sell in relatively small numbers for hundreds of thousands of dollars. Consumer Reports does not purchase or include Bentleys for our test program, however, we occasionally rent examples for road tests. Throughout much of the 20th century, Bentley was a sibling brand to Rolls-Royce, and the two brands produced similar cars with minor distinguishing characteristics. Bentley’s sale to Volkswagen Group in 1998 changed the brand’s course. The last unique, hand-built Bentley was the Mulsanne, which was discontinued in 2020. Modern Bentleys, including the Bentayga SUV, Continental coupe and convertible, and Flying Spur sedan share some parts, engine designs, and technology with Audi. However, nearly all Bentleys are built in the UK and have specialty parts that can be expensive to replace. Some Bentley engines are still largely hand-built, as well. Interior trims have more in common with high-end furniture than other cars.

Bentley is commemorating the brand’s 100th anniversary with a redesigned Flying Spur sedan. This all-new, third-generation luxury coach provides significant powertrain and chassis advances for the British automaker. It features a 626-hp, 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid assist, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The automatic all-wheel-drive system transfers power as needed, and it can operate in two-wheel drive, unlike with the previous car. With that prodigious power, Bentley claims the 5,300-lb. sedan can gallop to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The wheelbase increased 5 inches; all-wheel steering has been implemented to aid maneuverability. The adaptive suspension uses air springs to cushion the ride. The interior is dressed in leather, wood, and other refined touches befitting a royal ride. The Flying Spur has Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a suite of available driver assist features, such as blind spot warning, pedestrian detection, and traffic sign recognition.