Flying superlative

IT MAY not be the first thing anyone discussing the merits of the latest Bentley is likely to broach but the new Flying Spur V8's fuel efficiency has to be one of its most impressive attributes.

Until recently, the Bentley Flying Spur was synonymous with the massive turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine to drive all four wheels. But the recent addition of a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo has changed all that. This new unit may be smaller but it has outstanding oomph of 507 hp and 660 Nm, which is slightly less than the Flying Spur W12's 625 hp and 800 Nm but nowhere near inadequate.

And the V8's torque is particularly muscular because it is available from just 1,750 rpm. In other words, if your Prada loafer accidentally falls off your right foot and onto the accelerator, you will probably attain maximum torque already.