2021 Bentley Flying Spur W12 Review

Although no longer in production, the 6.0-liter W12 engine enjoyed a prosperous tenure in Bentley's lineup, being the automaker's cornerstone for two decades. Bentley's decision to discontinue it reflects a shift towards sustainable vehicle development, prioritizing environmental responsibility. Currently, the hybridized V6 and the Audi-sourced V8 remain in the lineup, with potential hybridization in line with the brand's aim to become fully electric by 2030. While hybridization promises efficiency, the W12's unparalleled refinement and robustness are irreplaceable. Despite its origins outside Bentley, it became emblematic of the brand. As one of the final model years featuring this engine, the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur W12 warrants examination of its performance capabilities.

Performance That Almost Defies Physics

What lies under the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur's hood is in the name itself, so let's talk performance figures. 626 horsepower and 664 lb.ft is enough to send the car to 60 mph from a standstill in 3.5 seconds, a second quicker than the Flying Spur V8 S, as tested by Car and Driver. As the numbers climb on the speedometer, you're faced with the challenge of reaching the 207 mph top speed, a task effortlessly accomplished thanks to the smooth and precise of the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and the confident grip provided by the permanent all-wheel-drive system. Amidst the thrill, you might doubt Bentley's precision in estimating the car's weight at around 5,400 pounds.

Pure Luxury, Refinement, And Comfort

There's no Bentley that is short of luxury and comfort in the cabin, and the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur W12 upholds this tradition in every stitch and surface. The cabin sits five if you get the second row as a bench-style seat or four if you get the captain-style bucket seats added as an option in 2020. Leather flows through every surface, perfectly complemented by meticulously chosen wood veneers that enhance the cabin's opulent ambiance. However, you can also get an example with carbon fiber or metal finishes, as this was added to the interior options in 2021. Attention to detail is evident in every aspect, ensuring each surface is visually striking. The dashboard boasts an array of chrome/real metal switchgear and accents. The integration of the infotainment display is well-executed, avoiding any sense of intrusion through the optional rotating feature that can show a wooden veneer or the screen itself.

Every Curve Whispers Luxury

One of the advantages of buying a third-generation Bentley Flying Spur, such as the 2021 Flying Spur W12, is that it is more distinct from the Continental GT compared to the first and second generations. The most evident change is the grille design, which adopts the vane style seen on the Bentley Mulsanne and is larger, leaving less space on each side where it meets the headlights. Bentley's signature bulking hood design accentuates the front end, and where the hood meets the grille sits the Flying B hood mascot, with a chrome strip running from it to the windscreen. Chrome extends to the door sills, window surrounds, door handles, and exhaust tips, adding a pleasing visual touch to the overall design, and the expansive yet elegantly flowing contours accentuate the car's luxurious status.

All-Round Indulgence

Being a recent model year, the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur W12 is full of Bentley's best offerings. Inside, the 12.3-inch infotainment display provides ample functionality. If you get a well-specced example, you'll get two additional screens behind the front seats and a convenient functionalities tablet on the rear center console if the car has captain-style chairs. The driver assists, and safety features suite is fully appointed, but Bentley didn't include adaptive cruise control as standard. But given how Bentley buyers love to splurge, you'll likely find an example with it among other optional features and luxuries, such as night vision, automated parking, and the 19-speaker Naim for Bentley sound system.

The Choice Is Clear

Some cars demand little deliberation before purchase, and the Bentley Flying Spur, particularly the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur W12, falls into that category. Typically priced between $170,000 and slightly over $200,000, it stands unrivaled among its alternatives, delivering unparalleled satisfaction across all aspects, performance, and driving thrills included. If you don't need more convincing, look no further than Exotic Car Trader's Bentley listings, where you'll find not only the market's best-priced examples but also other Bentleys to feast your eyes on if you feel that another Bentley should follow your purchase.

Final Thoughts

Being one of the last models equipped with the iconic W12 engine, the 2021 Bentley Flying Spur W12 honors a previous era while also aligning with Bentley's dedication to sustainable development. Beyond its powerful engine, the allure of its luxurious cabin and overall elegance will surely sway your decision to purchase. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! Craving heart-pounding performance? Luxuriously crafted interiors? A captivating presence? The 2021 Bentley Flying Spur W12 delivers on all fronts.