A new Flying Spur will complete the Bentley Continental family’s overhaul when it’s launched late next year. Scooped testing in southern Europe, this engineering mule is well disguised to hide the new Spur’s near production-ready bodywork.
Just like the recently revamped Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible, the new Flying Spur is based on a heavily revised version of the current platform, clothed in fresh bodywork and finished with a new, upgraded interior.
Although this prototype makes the new saloon appear shorter and taller, it is understood to sit on the same wheelbase as today’s car, with similar overall dimensions.
The mule, however, does give away the crisper sheetmetal of the new bodywork, which draws on the theme of the new GT and GTC. So where today’s Spur has flowing curves on the bonnet and boot, the new model will feature sharper creases and will sport a more structured look on the flanks.
It’s important to the success of the Spur in its biggest markets of China and the US that it retains the presence of a formal yet understated saloon.
Powertrains are expected to follow those of the GT and GTC, centring on twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 and 6.0-litre W12 units, with the range-topping Speed variant boasting 616bhp and a 200mph-plus top speed. With its new powerplant, the Spur Speed will again claim the title of Bentley’s fastest four-door vehicle.
Inside, the Spur will get a new fascia, shared with the GT coupé, featuring higher-grade minor switchgear. The cabin will also be trimmed with new materials and luxury carpet.
