Making its debut in Geneva, the 2017 Bentley Flying Spur V8 S expands the automaker’s most affordable luxury sedan lineup with a new model that slots between existing V8 and W12

More muscle, better hustle

An efficient retuning of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S model bumps horsepower from 500 to 521 and raises peak torque from 487 to 502 lb-ft – which still remains on hand from just 1,700 rpm. Throttle response also is quicker and flicking the 8-speed multimode automatic transmission into Sport now locks out the top gear. The S-spec engine retains its ability to run on just four cylinders under light loads, and despite the added might -- which can send this new Bentley 4-door streaking from 0-62 mph in just 4.9 seconds and hit a top end of 190 mph -- maintains the same fuel economy.

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Although the 40/60 front/rear torque bias on its all-wheel drive system is the same as on a standard Flying Spur V8, the S-spec chassis tuning benefits from a recalibration of its Continuous Damping Control system that improves handling precision without impacting ride comfort. The electronic stability control also gets more enthusiast-oriented programming that allows for a greater degree of wheel slip before making any interventions and quicker power pickup after it does step in to make any calculated saves. The capable brakes on the V8 S also can be upgraded to carbon-ceramic super-stoppers complete with red or black painted calipers.

Cranking up curb appeal

A number of cues set the new Flying Spur V8 S apart, starting with a black matrix grille insert and a gloss Beluga finish on the rear diffuser plus 20-inch open-spoke painted wheels like those found on the Continental GT V8 S and bespoke badging. Buyers also can opt to fit dark-tint front/rear lights, gloss black mirrors and 21-inch Mulliner Driving Specification black-and-bright machined 6-spoke alloys.

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Inside, the V8 S sports similar distinctive trim elements in its hand-crafted cabin that start with Piano Black wood veneers, a 3-spoke sport steering wheel and a knurled texture on the shift lever and paddles. The V8 S seats are covered in 2-tone leather set off with a contrasting center bow in the headliner.  Those seeking a more personal touch can step up to semi-aniline hides as well as a Mulliner Driving Specification package that swaps the normal straight-line sew patterns for a diamond-quilted motif. Deliveries of the new 2017 Bentley Flying Spur V8 S are set to begin sometime this summer, and pricing will be revealed closer to that time.

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