2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid: A Luxurious PHEV with Compromised Hybrid Tech

The 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid is a masterpiece of automotive craftsmanship, blending opulence, performance, and a hint of electrification. However, its hybrid system leaves much to be desired, making it a mixed bag for luxury sedan enthusiasts. Here’s a deep dive into this six-figure marvel.

First Impressions: A Statement of Grandeur

The Flying Spur Hybrid commands attention the moment it rolls into view. Even in a subtle white paint, its imposing presence is undeniable. The intricate brightwork in the grille and the iconic Flying B hood ornament catch the light beautifully, creating a sense of timeless elegance. For those who prefer a bolder look, Bentley offers 56 billion customization options, ensuring your Flying Spur is as unique as you are.

Interior: A Sanctuary of Luxury

Step inside, and the Flying Spur Hybrid elevates the concept of luxury to new heights. My tester featured the Odyssean Edition, a $50,050 package that transforms the cabin into a nautical-inspired masterpiece. The leather headliner, diamond-quilted seats, and 3D diamond-patterned door panels are complemented by stunning open-pore Hawaiian Koa wood trim. Every inch of the interior exudes quality, from the metal accents to the plush materials.

The infotainment system, based on Porsche’s PCM software, is functional but not cutting-edge. The 12.3-inch touchscreen has a slight lag in boot times, but the intuitive dock menu makes navigation easy. For audiophiles, the $8,970 Naim audio upgrade is a must. This 2,200-watt system delivers unparalleled sound clarity, making every drive a concert-like experience.

Performance: A Tale of Two Powertrains

The Flying Spur Hybrid pairs a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with an 18.9-kWh battery and an electric motor, producing a combined 536 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. In pure EV mode, the car glides silently, offering a serene driving experience. However, once the battery is depleted, the V6’s exhaust note feels out of place in a Bentley, lacking the refinement expected from such a prestigious brand.

The hybrid modes are where the Flying Spur Hybrid falters. Acceleration can feel sluggish when relying solely on the V6, and the transition between electric and gas power is often jarring. The Hold mode, designed to preserve battery charge, is particularly frustrating, as it fails to maintain the battery’s state of charge effectively.

Regenerative braking is another weak point. The system’s inconsistent behavior makes it difficult to predict how the car will respond when lifting off the throttle, and the brake pedal feel lacks the smoothness expected in a luxury sedan.

Ride Quality: Pure Bliss

Where the Flying Spur Hybrid truly excels is in its ride quality. The air suspension with adaptive dampers delivers a supremely comfortable ride, soaking up road imperfections with ease. In Comfort mode, the car feels like a rolling cloud, while Sport mode offers a slightly firmer but still luxurious experience. The Bentley mode strikes the perfect balance, combining plush comfort with responsive handling.

Pricing: A Hefty Investment

The 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid starts at $217,525, including destination fees. My tester, equipped with the Odyssean Edition, came in at a staggering $267,575. While this price tag is eye-watering, it’s still less than the average cost of a home in the US, making it a relative bargain for those in the market for a ultra-luxury sedan.

The Verdict: A Work in Progress

The 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid is a stunning example of automotive craftsmanship, but its hybrid technology feels like an afterthought. While the interior, ride quality, and overall presence are exceptional, the powertrain’s shortcomings are hard to ignore. For those seeking a true electric Bentley, it’s worth waiting for the brand’s upcoming battery-electric models.

If you’re set on a Flying Spur, the V8 or W12 variants offer a more cohesive and satisfying driving experience. The hybrid, while innovative, is a reminder that Bentley still has room to grow in the electrification space.

Tags:

• 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid
• Luxury sedan
• PHEV technology
• Odyssean Edition
• Naim audio system
• Hybrid performance
• Ultra-luxury car
• Electric vehicle
• Bentley customization
• Automotive craftsmanship

Viral Phrases:

• “56 billion customization options”
• “Nautical-inspired masterpiece”
• “Rolling cloud of comfort”
• “Hybrid tech that feels like an afterthought”
• “Eye-watering price tag”
• “A statement of grandeur”
• “The best automotive interior I’ve ever experienced”
• “A work in progress”
• “A reminder that Bentley still has room to grow”
• “The first battery-electric Bentley will slap harder than Will Smith”

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