We had a pleasant experience with a helpful and knowledgeable sales executive named Andrew Bradburn. After discussing with Bentley HQ, we decided on High Wycombe as the delivery location for our new Flying Spur Hybrid. On the appointed day, we met with dealer principal Ian Smith and other staff members. Andrew Bradburn then spent an hour briefing us about the car before we drove it away, fueled with excellent coffee and well-informed.
The main highlight of the Hybrid is its petrol-electric powertrain. It weighs similar to a V8, but the battery weight is relocated to the lower boot, resulting in a rearward bias of 52% in weight distribution. However, this doesn’t affect the driving experience. The only noticeable difference is the absence of the four-wheel steering system available in non-hybrid Spurs since 2020. The Hybrid is not cumbersome, but it feels larger compared to the 4WS versions, which feel more compact.
Despite this, there are no other drawbacks, and the Hybrid offers significant advantages. Currently, the fuel consumption stands at 35.5mpg, which is 10-12mpg (or around 50%) better than the V8. The EV-only mode provides incredible refinement, and the transition from the twin-turbocharged V6 to electric power is seamless and refined, thanks to excellent integration of the different drive sources. The performance is impressive too. Although slightly slower than the V8 and W12, the Spur Hybrid can effortlessly sprint from 0-100mph in 10.2 seconds.
The battery-only range, initially quoted at 25.5 miles, has actually turned out to be 33 miles. Although it falls short of the Range Rover’s 50-odd mile range, it is still convenient. The strong 134bhp electric motor sits between the 2.9-litre V6 engine and the eight-speed automatic gearbox. In EV-only mode, the performance feels accessible and powerful, with maximum torque delivered at step-off.
When cruising on motorways at 70mph, the car frequently switches off the engine. Charging the battery using a 7kWh Andersen charger, which is powered by my domestic electricity, takes slightly under two and a half hours and costs just under £6. As I gain more experience, I will calculate the overall costs more accurately.