Best Car Reviews - 2006 Bentley Continental Flying Spur

Introduction

The 2006 Bentley Continental Flying Spur is a true masterpiece from the British luxury automaker. Released as part of Bentley’s lineup targeting affluent consumers looking for unmatched elegance and power, this model represents the perfect blend of performance and sophistication. As a luxury midsize sedan, the Flying Spur offers pristine craftsmanship and a potent W12 engine, making it stand out in its class. Designed for those with an appreciation for classic luxury coupled with modern performance, the Continental Flying Spur captures the essence of Bentley's rich heritage.

Design and Exterior Features

A signature of prestige and class, the 2006 Bentley Continental Flying Spur boasts a timeless exterior design. It exudes a commanding presence on the road with its elegant proportions and sleek lines. Key design elements contribute to its unique appearance:

Iconic front grille with the recognizable Bentley "B" emblem.
Bi-xenon headlights providing a piercing gaze.
Streamlined silhouette for an aerodynamic advantage.
Distinctive rear-end design with jeweled tail lamps.
19-inch wheels offering both style and performance.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the Bentley Continental Flying Spur is nothing short of luxurious. With a cabin that encapsulates the essence of Bentley’s design excellence, this model is adorned with high-quality materials and an ergonomic layout designed for comfort:

Sumptuous leather upholstery available in various color options.
Rich wood veneer finishes add a touch of elegance.
Spacious cabin providing ample legroom and comfort for passengers.
Heated and ventilated seats to enhance driving comfort in all climates.
A bespoke audio system that elevates the in-cabin listening experience.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Continental Flying Spur is powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine, delivering an impressive 552 horsepower. This powerhouse enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The refined automatic (S6) transmission ensures smooth transitions, while the all-wheel-drive offers stability across various driving conditions.

Driving experiences varied by setting:

Urban environments: Smooth handling with effortless navigation.
Highway: Provides a quiet and composed ride at high speeds.
Corners and turns: Stays planted with precise steering and balanced chassis.

Fuel consumption is on the higher side at 24.7925 l/100 km, reflecting its emphasis on power.

Offers excellent grip and stability regardless of weather conditions.
Dynamic suspension adapts to drive style and road conditions.
Quiet cabin even at higher speeds.
Superior braking performance enhances driver confidence.

Technology and Connectivity

The Flying Spur boasts an array of technology and connectivity features designed to enhance the driving experience:

High-definition infotainment system with intuitive controls.
Bluetooth connectivity for seamless device integration.
Navigation system providing real-time traffic updates.
Multiple climate control zones for personalized comfort.
Advanced sound system for crystal-clear audio.

Safety Features

Bentley has equipped the 2006 Continental Flying Spur with an array of safety features, ensuring peace of mind:

Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for enhanced control.
Traction control to manage power delivery efficiently.
Multiple airbags strategically placed throughout the cabin.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for consistent stopping power.
Reinforced body structure for enhanced crash protection.

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2006 Bentley Continental Flying Spur starts around $170,000 USD. While the price positions it at the higher end of the market, it's competitive with other luxury sedans:

Available trims offer varying levels of customization.
Competitors include models like the Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7 Series.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exceptional build quality ensuring longevity.
Powerful engine that delivers thrilling performance.
Luxury interior offering top-tier comfort.
Smooth and composed ride under all conditions.
Distinguished design setting it apart from competitors.

Cons

High fuel consumption reflects its power-centric design.
Expensive maintenance costs due to premium components.
Limited technology updates compared to newer models.
Large turning radius in tight urban environments.
Significant depreciation over time compared to industry.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a Bentley requires commitment. The yearly maintenance cost can be substantial, given the car’s complexity and luxury components. Top 5 common issues reported by owners include:

Air suspension faults demanding timely attention.
Electronic glitches with infotainment systems.
Engine cooling system leaks.
Wear on brake system components.
Transmission service requirements.

Rating

Overall, the 2006 Bentley Continental Flying Spur garners an impressive rating:

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

Real-world feedback from Bentley owners highlights the car's luxury and performance:

"I love the unmatched comfort and elegance it offers on long drives."
"Maintenance is pricey, but the drive quality is worth every penny."
"Impressive noise insulation keeps the cabin quiet."
"The fuel efficiency is quite low, a trade-off for top performance."
"It’s a head-turner with its classic design and presence."

Best cars in this category

2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
2006 BMW 7 Series
2006 Audi A8
2006 Jaguar XJ
2006 Maserati Quattroporte

Summary

The 2006 Bentley Continental Flying Spur is best suited for those who appreciate luxury, heritage, and high performance in a vehicle. Its combination of a powerful engine, luxury features, and design excellence makes it a standout in the luxury sedan market. Despite its premium price tag, the Flying Spur delivers on the promise of an unmatched driving experience, making it an excellent option for luxury car enthusiasts seeking prestige and performance.