Best Car Reviews - 2018 Bentley Flying Spur

Introduction

The 2018 Bentley Flying Spur is a testament to luxury and performance in the midsize car category. Released in a time when Bentley sought to redefine opulence on wheels, this model is a powerful statement for discerning enthusiasts. Targeted at affluent individuals who demand the highest quality in automotive craftsmanship, the Flying Spur combines the traditional allure of Bentley's design aesthetics with modern technological advancements. What truly sets this model apart is its blend of luxuriously appointed interiors and its powerful 12-cylinder, all-wheel-drive system.

Design and Exterior Features

The Bentley Flying Spur exudes elegance with its sleek silhouette and imposing stance. It maintains the brand's signature design language, characterized by a grand front grille, timeless round headlamps, and a beautifully contoured body. With an eye for detail, Bentley has incorporated sophisticated lines and curves that enhance its aerodynamic profile.

Key Exterior Features:

• Iconic Bentley matrix grille
• Distinctive LED headlights
• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Chromed window surrounds
• Power-folding, heated side mirrors

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the Flying Spur, and you're immediately enveloped in a world of luxury. The cabin layout is both spacious and inviting, featuring an impeccable combination of premium leather, rich wood veneers, and polished metals. The design encourages relaxation, ensuring every journey is an indulgent experience.

Luxury and Comfort Features:

• Hand-stitched leather upholstery
• Heated and ventilated seats
• Four-zone automatic climate control
• Panoramic sunroof
• Bespoke interior trim options

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2018 Flying Spur is powered by a 6.0-liter W12 engine, generating an impressive 616 horsepower. This powerhouse propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in a staggering 4.3 seconds, making it one of the quickest in its class. The automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provide a seamless driving experience, whether weaving through city streets or cruising on the highway. Despite its size and power, the Flying Spur offers a respectable fuel consumption rating of 21.25 l/100 km.

Driving Performance Highlights:

• Smooth automatic (S8) transmission
• Adaptive Air Suspension for superior comfort
• Dynamic and responsive cornering ability
• Integrated Drive Dynamics Control
• Fuel consumption: 21.25 l/100 km

Technology and Connectivity

The Flying Spur's infotainment system is engineered with sophistication, featuring a central touchscreen with intuitive controls and menus. Connectivity options are abundant, ensuring both drivers and passengers are entertained and connected during trips.

Technology Highlights:

• High-resolution 8-inch display
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
• Navigation system with real-time traffic updates
• 11-speaker premium audio system
• Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in Bentley's design philosophy, and the Flying Spur comes equipped with an array of features to ensure peace of mind on every journey. It boasts a high safety standard backed by comprehensive crash test ratings.

Safety Features:

• Traction and stability control
• Antilock brakes (ABS)
• Multiple airbags including side and knee airbags
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane-departure warning

Pricing and Variants

The 2018 Bentley Flying Spur starts at a base price of around $200,000 USD. With various trims and personalization options, this model offers flexibility for bespoke configurations. When compared to competitors like the Mercedes S-Class or Audi A8, the Flying Spur is positioned in a higher price bracket, justified by its build quality and performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional luxury and comfort features
• Powerful W12 engine for thrilling performance
• Sophisticated design both outside and inside
• High-end technology and infotainment offerings
• Customizable options for personal taste

Cons

• High fuel consumption compared to rivals
• Significant initial investment required
• Limited availability of some customization features
• Maintenance can be costly
• Technology features could be complex for some users

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a luxury vehicle like the Flying Spur involves regular maintenance that can be quite costly, estimated at around $4,000 to $6,000 annually. Familiarizing yourself with common issues can further help in maintaining the car's pristine condition.

Common Issues:

• Air suspension faults
• Electrical system malfunctions
• Brake pad and rotor wear
• Occasional oil leaks
• Issues with infotainment system responsiveness

Rating

• Overall Rating: 9/10
  • Design: 10/10
  • Comfort: 10/10
  • Performance: 9/10
  • Technology: 8/10
  • Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

1. "The best blend of power and luxury I've ever experienced."
2. "Maintenance can be expensive, but worth every penny for the ride."
3. "I love the customization options that allowed me to make it truly mine."
4. "Fuel efficiency is a downer, but I can't complain when stepping on the gas."
5. "Complex technology features can be a bit overwhelming."

Best cars in this category

• 2018 BMW 7 Series
• 2018 Audi A8
• 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
• 2018 Jaguar XJ
• 2018 Maserati Quattroporte

Summary

The 2018 Bentley Flying Spur is ideal for those who seek the pinnacle of luxury combined with robust performance. It is a vehicle that doesn't just meet expectations but exceeds them, delivering an unmatched experience in both style and substance. While it requires a significant investment and ongoing maintenance costs, the value it offers in delivering a lavish driving experience makes it a standout choice in the luxury car market.