Bentley’s first EV isn’t due to be launched until 2026, but knowing it should be catering towards greener tastes, the Flying Spur we have here and the Continental GT are powered by what Bentley calls its ‘Ultra Performance Hybrid’ powertrain. Gone are the previous iconic W12,and V8 engines, to be replaced now by a plug-in hybrid V8 petrol engine in Speed and the Mulliner equipment grades – the latter is tested here.
The Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain is made up of a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, combined with a 140kW electric motor inside the eight-speed automatic transmission. The result is a still impressive 782hp, 190hp of which is accessible in EV-only mode for up to 50 miles. Other impressive figures include 0-62mph acceleration in a licence-losing 3.5 seconds –despite the Bentley’s 2.5-tonne weight – and over 500 miles combined consumption. And because this Flying Spur is a plug-in hybrid, it has a scarcely believable 8% BIK charge – the same as the plug-in hybrid versions of the Toyota CH-R and Skoda Superb.
Design and interior
The current third-generation Flying Spur has been on sale since 2019, but changes for the hybrid version are limited to a new diamond pattern front grille at the front, and oval tailpipes at the back.
The overall look might be evolution rather than revolution, but with its long bonnet, high waistline, and the extra chrome trim fitted to this Mulliner, the latest Flying Spur has the same stately Bentley presence, considering its £244,000+ price. Especially with the optional duo-tone paint work applied to the test car, which costs just under £25,000!
Inside, despite the move to hybrid power, this Flying Spur happily remains pleasingly old school. So, think the most-luxurious leather, shown in our car with over £3,200 of bespoke finish. Plus, tactile metal finishes, and neat features like the three-sided rotating central display.
The 25.9kWh battery compromises the bootspace, with 354 litres of room – still, it’s about the same as a compact hatchback! Our test car also features the four-seater interior format, but there’s still the same impressive amount of rear legroom. In the front, the driving position is good, with supportive seats. We like the chunky leather and metal gear selector, plus metal gearshift paddles. Other highlights include the proper analogue clock, and the punchy, optional ‘Naim for Bentley’ sound system. The most disappointing interior features are the buttons below the central screen, and on the centre console, looking too like some you’d find in an Audi A8!
Performance and drive
Deferring to ‘Electric’ mode on start up, we quickly switched the mode to ‘Hybrid’, to make the most of this Bentley’s quoted EV range of up to 50 miles. The drivetrain and interior are so refined, it’s hard to tell where the electric motor ends and the V8 engine begins. Although, at higher speed you can hear the charismatic V8 rumble, which is very welcome compared to the quiet of EV models.
‘Comfort’ mode is where this Flying Spur feels happiest, able to waft along in a mixture of electric and petrol power. However, when you need it, the Bentley again impresses with its crisp throttle response – the way it launches itself down the road amazes! Choose ‘Sport’ mode, and it’s more of the same, although power is only coming from the engine (which is more than enough!), as power in the battery is held.
This is a big car, but the Flying Spur’s steering is precise and has plenty of feel – plus, tight body control, and decent brake feel, give you the confidence to keep speeds up on country roads and enjoy the performance. Then there’s the ride, which even on the Mulliner’s standard 22in wheels, generally remains supple and luxurious – whatever drive mode you’re in.
Considering the performance and weight, this Bentley’s efficiency seemed reasonable during our drive, as we had 40 miles of electric range in ‘Hybrid’ mode, and saw late-30s mpg, over 250 miles of mixed driving.
Pleasingly, making the Flying Spur a plug-in hybrid has done nothing to harm its performance luxury tag. In fact, it’s a convincing stepping stone to a full electric Bentley. Although, its price means just a few will be lucky enough to run one as a company car.
Positive: Desirable exterior and interior design, quality detailing, interior space, performance, good to drive.
Negative: Expensive, compromised boot space, sometimes inconsistent brake feel.
Standard equipment: Mulliner floating diamond front grille, 22in alloy wheels, bright chrome exterior detailing, Mulliner quilted leather trim, lane assist, adaptive cruise control, night vision, head-up display.
Engines: Plug-in hybrid: 782hp
Equipment grades: Mulliner, Speed
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
| Model | Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8 |
| P11D | £244,100 |
| Residual value | 58% |
| Depreciation | £102,686 |
| Fuel | £5,725 |
| Service, maintenance and repair | TBC |
| Cost per mile | TBC |
| Fuel consumption | 85.6mpg |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 33g/km (8%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £325/£651 |
| Luggage capacity | 354 litres |
| Engine size/power | 3,996cc/782hp |
| Score | 8/10 |
