bentley-flying-spur-v8-e

Downsizing continues to spread, even at this level. The Bentley Flying Spur is now available with the same V8 that powers the Continental GT V8, becoming Crewe's entry-level sedan. It complements the flagship Flying Spur W12.

The Audi-sourced 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 produces 507 PS at 6,000 rpm and 660 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm. It's connected to an eight-speed ZF auto and continuous AWD. The century sprint's done in under five seconds, and top speed's just shy of 300 km/h.

Thanks to cylinder deactivation, efficient thermal management and regenerative technologies, combined fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are a quoted 10.9 litres per 100 km and 254 grams per km respectively. Range is a claimed 840 km.

Here's how you tell it apart from the W12 car: the V8 car has figure-of-eight tailpipes, its Flying B badge has a red centre and the lower grille is finished in black.

You are welcomed on board by a wood veneer called Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus (how's that for posh?) and a rear bench that seats three, while a Touch Screen Remote deploys from the rear centre console at the touch of a button, giving rear passengers control of climate and infotainment systems.