The 2018 Flying Spur W12 S serves as a definitive turning point for the Bentley four-door lineup. By dropping the Continental name, this generation focused on carving its own executive identity. This specific model reached a historic milestone by becoming the first Bentley sedan to break the 200 mph barrier. It was famously described as having extra attitude, a trait clearly visible in its darkened trim. Currently held in the Heritage Collection, this Tungsten metallic grey example represents the peak of the second-generation platform. It successfully merges the needs of a boardroom cruiser with the soul of a supercar. Owners appreciate how it balances immense physical presence with truly staggering longitudinal performance. This car remains a masterclass in understated power and British craftsmanship.
Engineering the 202 MPH Four Door Legend
The core of the 2018 Flying Spur W12 S is its massive 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine. Engineers recalibrated this W12 unit to produce 626 bhp, providing a meaningful jump over the standard output. Torque figures rose to 820 Nm, ensuring that the heavy sedan surges forward with relentless momentum. Consequently, the car achieves a top speed of 202 mph, entering the exclusive “double ton” club. Power reaches the road through a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system that favors a 40:60 torque split. This ensures that the driving dynamics feel engaging and sporty despite the car’s significant luxury footprint. An eight-speed automatic transmission manages these massive forces with exceptional smoothness and speed. It is a drivetrain built for effortless cross-continental journeys at high speed.
Darkened Cues and Bespoke W12 S Design
Visual aggression is a hallmark of the 2018 Flying Spur W12 S compared to its siblings. Bentley replaced the traditional bright chrome with gloss black trim on the radiator and window surrounds. Dark tinted headlamps and rear lights further enhance the moody, high-performance aesthetic of the exterior. Inside, the Heritage Collection model features a sophisticated two-tone split of Beluga and Linen hide. Diamond-quilted seats include contrast stitching and unique W12 S embroidery on the headrests for exclusivity. Piano Black veneers provide a deep, lustrous finish that complements the darkened exterior theme perfectly. These design choices signify a move away from traditional flash toward a more contemporary look. The result is a sedan that looks as fast as its technical specs suggest.
Chassis Responsiveness and Naim Audio Comfort
To handle the increased engine output, the 2018 Flying Spur W12 S features a revised chassis. Engineers specifically tuned the damper and stability control settings to offer a more communicative driving feel. This model retains its air springs but adds a layer of responsiveness that rewards an active driver. Inside the cabin, the Naim for Bentley surround sound system provides a concert-hall acoustic experience. This ensures that even at high speeds, the interior remains a sanctuary of high-fidelity audio. The steel monocoque structure and stainless steel front subframe provide a rigid, stable platform for travel. Every component is designed to minimize vibration while maximizing the driver’s connection to the road. It offers a level of refinement that few other brands can replicate.
Power Output and Performance Specifications
The 2018 Flying Spur W12 S utilizes a 5,998 cc twin-turbocharged W12 engine for its primary power source. It produces 626 bhp at 6,000 rpm and reaches peak torque of 820 Nm at just 1,500 rpm. This allowing for a 0-100 km/h sprint in only 4.5 seconds despite a curb weight of 2,475 kg. The car features permanent four-wheel drive and a top speed of 202 mph for ultimate performance. Independent suspension with double wishbones and adjustable electronic dampers ensures a compliant yet firm ride. A 3,066 mm wheelbase provides the stability required for its high-speed cruising capabilities on global motorways. These technical metrics solidified the W12 S as the high-performance flagship of its era. It remains a staggering achievement in automotive engineering and luxury.
Summary of the Ultimate W12 Flagship
The 2018 Flying Spur W12 S is much more than just a faster luxury sedan. It represents the pinnacle of the second-generation family and a historic leap in four-door speed. By blending 202 mph capability with the refinement of Linen hides, Bentley created a unique vehicle. The Heritage Collection example in Tungsten grey preserves this legacy for future generations of enthusiasts. It honors the brand’s racing roots while providing the comfort expected of a modern executive flagship. As the automotive world moves toward smaller engines, this W12 remains a glorious celebration of displacement. It stands as a testament to the idea that luxury and attitude can coexist perfectly. This Bentley continues to be a benchmark for high-speed elegance.
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Source: Bentley
