The V8-Powered Flying Spur Makes Its Japanese Debut | Bentley

Bentley Flying Spur V8

Flying Spur V8 Engine Makes Japanese Debut

The "Flying Spur," a four-door luxury sedan newly equipped with a V8 engine, has arrived in Japan. To celebrate Bentley's 50th anniversary of domestic sales, its debut was held at the British Embassy.

Text by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)

Celebrating 50 Years of Bentley Sales in Japan

Bentley's four-door luxury sedan, theFlying Spur, now featuring a new V8 engine,world premieretook place in March this year at theGeneva Motor Show. Just three months later, this new "Flying Spur V8" has made its way to Japan.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Bentley's domestic sales, handled by Cornes. The British Embassy, serving as the venue, also displayed an "S3 Saloon" from 1964, manufactured half a century ago, for a celebratory unveiling ceremony.

The new V8 model's powertrain replaces the W12 engine found in the Flying Spur's flagship, utilizing the 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine already implemented in theContinental GT V8. It boasts a maximum output of 373kW (507ps) and peak torque of 660Nm. With a 0-100km/h acceleration of 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 295km/h, it delivers performance rivaling that of a sports car.

Naturally, efficiency has also been enhanced with features such as cylinder deactivation, a thermal management system, and a regenerative braking system, achieving class-leading fuel economy of 9.2 km/liter and a cruising range of 840 km.

The transmission is a ZF 8-speed automatic, similar to the W12 model. Combined with a full-time 4WD system with a front-to-rear torque split of 40:60, it ensures stable driving performance across various road conditions. Furthermore, the Flying Spur V8 features a redesigned computer-controlled air suspension to provide a ride befitting a four-door luxury sedan, maximizing shock absorption. The standard tire size is 20 inches, fitted with five-spoke alloy wheels.

The differences between the W12 and V8 models extend beyond the engine. The exterior also features distinct treatments, including a black-finished front bumper grille and chrome-finished figure-eight exhaust tips, signifying its V8 engine. The iconic Bentley wing badge is now red, adding to its sporty appeal.

The interior remains unchanged from the W12 model, offering an exceptionally luxurious space lavishly appointed with leather. The rear-seat entertainment system provides easy access to various information, including climate control, seat adjustments, and audio-visual content, all controllable via a touchscreen.

The starting price in Japan will be 18.9 million yen.

Bentley Flying Spur V8
Body Dimensions: Length 5,299 x Width 1,976 x Height 1,488 mm
Wheelbase: 3,066 mm
Weight (EU spec): 2,425 kg
Engine: 4.0-liter V8 Twin-Turbo
Max. Output: 373 kW (507 ps) / 6,000 rpm
Max. Torque: 660 Nm / 1,750 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Drivetrain: 4WD (40:60 front/rear fixed)
Front Suspension: 4-link double wishbone (air suspension)
Rear Suspension: Trapezoidal multi-link (air suspension)
Tires Front/Rear: 275/45ZR19
Brakes Front/Rear: Ø405mm ventilated discs / Ø335mm ventilated discs
Min. Turning Radius: 6.05 meters
Trunk Capacity: 475 liters
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 5.2 seconds
Top Speed: 295 km/h
Fuel Economy (EU spec): 10.9 ℓ/100km (approx. 9.2 km/ℓ)
CO2 Emissions: 254 g/km
Price: 18.9 million yen (incl. 8% tax)
*All specifications except price are based on home market values.