2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Review
Price
RM1,688,000
Installment
RM16,099/mth
2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur at a glance
A spacious sedan version of the Bentley Continental GT, the 2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur combines peerless refinement and astonishing performance. And in adhering to Bentley heritage, it is now the fastest four-door production car in the world.
2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur quick specs
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Class | Large Luxury |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Brought in to fill the void below the Bentley Arnage, the 2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur's styling had to be more contemporary to fight competing grand tourers. There is undeniable road presence, although for a car this price we expect more exterior detailing. Front end design is rather bland, but the body lines are muscular and purposeful. Inside, the traditional Bentley leather-and-wood theme dominates the interior, imparting a posh ambience.
Handling
The 2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur's composed handling defies its large size, much thanks to both the four-wheel drive system and adjustable air suspension. The 4WD helps in transmitting the massive power to the ground, while the air suspension's four settings allow variations between control and comfort. The end result: sporty body control and high levels of grip, allowing corners to be approached with enthusiasm and confidence.
Comfort
With many available adjustments and cosseting seats, driver and passengers can travel in first-class comfort. Ride refinement is excellent with minimal wind, noise, and engine noise intrusion. The cabin is the place to be for long journeys. When sitting in the leather seats, many Bentley badges are within sight, perhaps to remind passengers of how lucky they are. Controls are easy to operate, however the windscreen pillars may hinder outward visibility.
Quality + Reliability
It is said many components are shared with the Volkswagen Phaeton, but enter the leather-and-wood filled cabin, and you will be hard pressed to find a flaw. For a start, the Phaeton has a wonderful cabin. With Bentley, they managed to add a touch of class. Hand-build quality can be seen in the finishing and fittings. And all materials are of the finest quality. In the long run, we believe the Volkswagen- and Audi-sourced components should remain reliable.
Performance
How the twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine delivers its power is quite astonishing. There is seamless delivery at any speed at any gear. The crushing acceleration makes overtaking effortless. Despite being heavier than most supercars, the acceleration numbers would be uncomfortably close for supercar owners' liking. Top speed nears the legendary 200 mph (320 kph); a rear diffuser keeps the 2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur stable at such ridiculous speeds. The six-speed automatic gearbox executes shifts smoothly.
Roominess
Interior room is as large as expected of a top-end luxury sedan. In fact it is capacious for both front and rear passengers. Rear seats can be chosen from three different electrically adjustable seating arrangements: either as two individual armchairs or two types of rear bench. The boot size is reasonable at 475 litres.
Running Costs
If you are looking here, most probably this car is not for you. The fuel consumption is understandably high with the 6.0-litre W12, at least it is more efficient relative to the Bentley Arnage's powerplant. Any servicing or repair are likely to cost a bomb. Road tax costs around RM 16K, and don't forget insurance and the steep depreciation. But since any buyer will be extremely rich, the running costs should be less of an issue?
Value for Money
The 2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur offers ample value for the (considerable) money. It is a thoroughbred cruiser even when compared to grand tourers, being able to chew up long distances with ease. Riding this car to work makes perfect sense, the same cannot be said for supercar rivals.
Equipment
User-friendly satellite navigation, brilliant audio system, four-zone climate control, cruise control, and paddle-shift for the automatic gearbox are standard. Bentley allows buyers to choose from a bespoke options range. Comprehensive safety kit includes twin front, side and curtain airbags, while modern electronic safety systems and superb four-wheel drive prevent skids.
Environment
While the 6.0-litre W12 can be considered efficient for its large capacity, the net emission is still horrendous and fuel consumption is still sky-high. Being a very drivable car makes the situation worse. As such the 2011 Bentley Continental Flying Spur gets little merit for its environmental harmfulness; good thing there are not many on the roads.
Live Life Drive Verdict
First-class cabin
Good blend of comfort and control
Astonishing performance
Styling lacks detailing
Cripplingly expensive to buy and run
Bentley Continental GT is much sexier
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