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Luxury car maker Bentley has announced the debut of the Arnage Final Series limited edition model for the upcoming Paris Motor Show to mark the end of the current model's ten-year run at the top-end of the luxury car segment.

"The Final Series is the perfect model to give our Arnage flagship a splendid send off. Handcrafted at Crewe, this exclusive run of 150 cars represents the ultimate expression of Bentley luxury and effortless power."

The special edition Arnage Final Series combines the performance of the 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V8 Arnage T (373 kW) with the ultra refinement of the R with luxury features such as a rear cocktail cabinet with a Final Series stainless steel flask and two shot glasses,four Bentley umbrellas mounted in the boot and even two picnic tables available in a range of premium unbleached veneers!

The grand finale for the grandest of Bentleys is limited to just 150 obscenely wealthy customers before the next generation of the flagship model, which is yet unknown, is unveiled further down the track.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, said: "For 10 years, Arnage has enjoyed extraordinary success at the pinnacle of the luxury saloon market. The Final Series is a celebration of the Arnage era as Bentley prepares for the next generation of its flagship model."

The Official Bentley Press Release:

BENTLEY ARNAGE FINAL SERIES

• Handcrafted at Bentley, Crewe, Arnage Final Series is an exclusive run of 150 cars, celebrating the last of Arnage
• Combining the performance of the T with the refinement of the R, Arnage Final Series is the ultimate expression of class-leading luxury and effortless power
• Arnage Final Series is the culmination of 90 years of Bentley heritage and marks the 50th anniversary of the company's iconic V8 engine
• Arnage Final Series also signals the end of an era as Bentley prepares for the future

Since its debut in 1998 the Arnage has conveyed an air of sophisticated understatement as the four-door flagship of the Bentley range. Over the last decade the car has undergone a process of constant refinement to its body, design, chassis and powertrain to maintain its class-leading position in the high luxury market.

To celebrate 10 years of the Arnage, 50 years of its mighty V8 engine and 90 years of the marque, Bentley Motors launches its limited edition model at the Paris Motor Show today.

Called the Bentley Arnage Final Series, the new model features a unique specification, combining the performance of the 500 bhp Arnage T with the refinement of the Arnage R and design elements from the Brooklands coupe, for the ultimate expression of British luxury and effortless power in a four-door saloon – a grand finale, for the grandest of Bentleys.

Hand crafted at Bentley's Crewe facility, the Final Series is an exclusive run of 150 cars, a unique example of the marque's flagship created to bid 'farewell' to the highly successful Arnage line in the most appropriate manner and style. Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, explains:

"For 10 years, Arnage has enjoyed extraordinary success at the pinnacle of the
luxury saloon market. The Final Series is a celebration of the Arnage era as Bentley
prepares for the next generation of its flagship model."

BENTLEY ARNAGE FINAL SERIES – NEWS IN BRIEF
• Limited production run of 150 cars
• Arnage T powertrain with 6 ¾ litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 500 bhp and 1000 Nm of torque
• Six-speed ZF automatic transmission with sophisticated locking torque converter provides fast yet ultra-smooth gearshifts
• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fitted as standard
• Exterior design styling changes include:
20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels
Retractable 'Flying B' bonnet mascot
Body coloured headlamp bezels
Dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles
Lower front wing air vents
'FINAL SERIES' badge on front wings
Bentley 'Jewel' fuel filler cap
Twin exhaust tail pipes
• Interior design enhancements include:
'FINAL SERIES' treadplates to front doors
Drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals
Waistrails with inset chrome strip and recessed Bentley marque badges (for the first time on Arnage)
Rear cocktail cabinet and document stowage trimmed in hide
FINAL SERIES stainless steel flask and shot glasses
Two picnic tables available in a range of premium unbleached veneers
• Four Bentley umbrellas with wooden handles
• Further enhancements to the standard Final Series specification include:
Large display audio head unit with Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot
Removable rear cup holders for rear centre armrest
Hide covered boot rail
• Further enhancements to the Final Series optional specification include:
- iPod interface
- Rear remote control for infotainment system
- Naim for Bentley audio system: 1100W, 10 speakers and next generation Digital Signal Processing (DSP) with 8 modes to create the world's best in-car sound stage.

A COMMANDING ROAD PRESENCE
For the last ten years the Arnage's combination of muscular lines and understated luxury have endowed it with a commanding road presence synonymous with all Bentley Grand Tourers, subtly conveying the car's formidable performance potential.

This powerful exterior profile is underpinned by a torsionally stiff bodyshell (with an astonishing 6,500 spot welds) that helps to deliver outstanding ride and refinement. Based on the sporting Arnage T, the Final Series offers a range of discreet exterior cues that further enhance its powerful stance. Key ingredients of the distinctive appearance include a dark-tinted Bentley matrix radiator grille with Flying 'B' mascot and dark-tinted lower grille. The iconic Flying 'B', which can retract neatly into the grille surround, was originally designed by motoring artist F. Gordon Crosby and was first used on the 1930 Bentley 8-Litre.

The Arnage Final Series is further distinguished by exterior design features first seen on the exclusive Bentley Brooklands coupe, comprising 20-inch five-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels and 'Le Mans' lower front wing air vents.

Additional unique features include body-coloured front and rear lamp bezels, 'jewel' fuel filler cap (made from billet aluminium) together with 'Final Series' wing badges and polished stainless steel treadplates to the front doors.

EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP
The Arnage Final Series will have a very special appeal to Bentley customers, as Peter Guest, Head of Department, Body & Trim, explains:

"Thanks to its hand-built exclusivity and superb quality, Arnage has become a world-wide benchmark for automotive craftsmanship. The Final Series epitomises the truly bespoke feel we aspire to and are determined to maintain."

Inside, the Final Series is everything you would expect of a bespoke Bentley, offering the highest levels of hand-craftsmanship to a small, but discerning audience. The interior offers a remarkably spacious, luxury cabin to provide the ultimate in firstclass travel for four adults.

Many of the most desirable Mulliner options are included in Final Series as standard, most notably the hand-made waistrails with inset chrome strip with recessed Bentley badges, the new rear cocktail cabinet and document storage trimmed in hide, plus the beautifully designed picnic tables available in a choice of three premium unbleached wood veneers – all prime examples of Crewe craftsmanship.

Bentley is the only automobile manufacturer in the world to offer as standard a cabin trimmed entirely with leather hides – including the headlining. The handcrafted steering wheel requires up to 16 hours of double-stitching. A set of mirror-matched veneers for each car takes 13 days to craft, while 17 hides and almost 400 separate pieces of leather are used for the upholstery, trim and headlining. Arnage Final Series spans the many eras between traditional coachbuilding skills and 21st century high-performance automotive engineering.

As in every Bentley, peerless craftsmanship and bespoke finishing are to the fore. Every item of trim, be it veneer, hide or chromed bezel, uses authentic materials. Built by hand, the creation of each Arnage takes a minimum of six weeks and owners can take full advantage of Mulliner, Bentley's specialist commissioning department, as Trevor Gay, Personal Commissioning Manager, Mulliner elaborates:

"Up to 80 percent of Arnage customers specify Mulliner features. Mulliner is completely dedicated to fully understanding their requirements and to delivering a bespoke experience and a uniquely high level of personal service."

Arnage Final Series is available in the full Bentley range of 42 exterior colours, 25 interior hides, and three veneers, plus the comprehensive line-up of Mulliner options and its bespoke colour-matching service that enable Bentley owners to create a uniquely personal car.

To help customers finalise the specification of their Arnage Final Series, the Bentley design team recommends six classic colour and trim combinations – Titan Grey (with Anthracite interior), Royal Ebony (with Beluga), Windsor Blue (with Windsor Blue), Meteor (with Imperial Blue), Burnt Oak (with Burnt Oak) and Black Velvet (with Burgundy).

NEW FEATURE ENHANCEMENTS
Arnage Final Series buyers will also benefit from a range of standard and optional feature enhancements. Standard enhancements include:
o New audio head unit – with larger display screen and an SD (secure digital) memory card slot instead of the single CD slot.
o New rear cup holders – displaying Bentley craftsmanship, these removable cup holders attach to the front edge of the rear centre armrest, or can be stored inside the armrest.
o New hide covered boot rail – features coordinated leather trim and a chrome strip along the top edge.

New optional enhancements available at extra cost:
o iPod Interface – links to the Infotainment system and enables customers to play their favourite music through the car's audio system. Supplied with connectors for iPod, USB, Mini USB and a 3.5mm AUX jack. Includes a 12 volt power outlet for charging purposes.
o Rear remote control – enables the rear seat passengers to control the infotainment system. When not in use it can be stored in a dedicated pouch inside the rear centre armrest.
o Naim for Bentley world class audio system – delivers the world's best in-car sound stage. Created in partnership with Bentley by Naim Audio, a UK-based high end hi-fi manufacturer, this system features 10 speakers, a dual channel sub-woofer and a 1100 Watt amplifier – the world's most powerful production unit fitted in a car. Bentley is also the first car manufacturer to use a next-generation Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in its audio system which features eight individual modes to reproduce true emotions and a 'live' concert-like experience.

EFFORTLESS PERFORMANCE FROM CREWE'S MIGHTY V8
The engine, transmission, chassis and running gear of the Arnage Final Series are identical to those previously employed in Arnage T. In this specification, Bentley's remarkable all-aluminium 6 ¾ litre V8 engine produces 500 bhp (507PS/373kW) and 1000 Nm (738lb ft) of torque – figures that ensure that the legendary Bentley 'wave of torque' delivers effortless performance for a unique driving experience.

Acceleration to 60 mph is accomplished in 5.2 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.5 secs) with 100 mph reached in 12.1 seconds (0-160km/h in 12.0 seconds). Top speed of the Final Series is 179 mph / 288 km/h. Each V8 engine bears the signature of the team leader who oversaw its hand-built construction in the Crewe factory.

The six-speed ZF automatic transmission, first introduced for the 2007 model, ensures optimum flexibility, response and refinement. Three transmission modes (Drive, Sport and Semi-Automatic) allow the driver to take full advantage of the powerful 500 bhp V8 engine.

DYNAMIC HANDLING, SUPERB RIDE AND AWESOME BRAKING
Significantly upgraded in 2007, the Arnage's fully independent double wishbone front and rear suspension features coil springs with computer-controlled, adaptive electro-hydraulic dampers and automatic ride-height control with auto-load compensation. These endow the Arnage with impressive body control in all driving conditions, while the new five-spoke, two-piece 8.5J x 20-inch Sports alloy wheels with 255/40 ZR20 Pirelli P Zero tyres – originally developed for the Brooklands coupe - aid handling and road holding.

As an option, Final Series may be specified with carbon/silicon carbide, cross-drilled brake discs. Measuring 420 x 40 mm (front) and 356 x 28 mm (rear), these discs are the largest fitted to any production car on sale today. With eight-piston callipers, the brakes provide impressive retardation and also give an 8 kg reduction in unsprung weight, benefiting steering response, ride suppleness and acceleration.

This lightweight braking system ensures virtually fade-free use, time after time, and superb resistance to disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal use, the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and pad life is doubled compare to the standard system.

The Traction Control system is calibrated with the aim of avoiding all unnecessary reductions in engine torque. The ESP logic system, which is set-up to allow spirited handling without any reduction in stability or safety, monitors the car's overall stability rather than simply loss of grip to the wheels. This reduces the amount of intervention required and restores power earlier and more progressively, allowing the power of the V8 engine to be fully exploited.

THE PERFECT MODEL TO BID 'FAREWELL' TO ARNAGE
Commenting on the final chapter of the Arnage story, Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing, says:

"The Final Series is the perfect model to give our Arnage flagship a splendid send
off. Handcrafted at Crewe, this exclusive run of 150 cars represents the ultimate
expression of Bentley luxury and effortless power."

[Source: Bentley]

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Posted By: charles - Category: British cars, Wallpapers, Bentley, Saloons, Sedans

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2009 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed

June 11th 2008 00:15

British luxury marque Bentley have given the Continental Flying Spur range a midlife freshen up and subtle restyling plus the introduction of a new 'Speed' variant with more performance.

Aside from the visual tweaks such as a more upright front grille with bright chrome matrix, chromed headlamp bezels etc. which are in-line with what the Continental GT coupe received last year, the biggest piece of news is the introduction of the most powerful 4-door car ever produced by Bentley - the 448 kW Continental Flying Spur Speed.

"The new Flying Spur advances its Bentley performance credentials while delivering outstanding refinement and comfort through our unique application of advanced technology and traditional craftsmanship.

With 600 bhp and a sports-tuned chassis, the Flying Spur Speed redefines customer expectations of a large, four-door luxury saloon. The performance, handling and agility set new benchmarks."

The twin turbo 6.0-litre W12 engine also produces 750 Nm of torque which gives it a 9% increase in power and 15% increase in torque over the standard Continental Flying Spur. Neither models are slouches by any means with very rapid 0-100 km/h times of 5.2 seconds (Continental Flying Spur) and 4.8 seconds (Continental Flying Spur Speed).

Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed interior

The Continental Flying Spur Speed is also endowed with better driving dynamics through an uprated chassis including stiffer springs/dampers, a lower ride height (10mm) and a retuned Servotronic system, just to name a few.

The Official Bentley Press Release:

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR RANGE – NEWS IN BRIEF

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR

Styling evolution

- New front end design with:
o More upright front grille with bright chrome matrix
o Larger, lower air intakes
o Chromed headlamp bezels
o Optional bright chrome matrix lower grille

- New, more slender rear bumper design with:
o Wraparound brightware and black valance.
o Bright tail lamp bezels.

Best-in-class cabin refinement

o Acoustic glass to side and rear windows
o New acoustic tri-laminate undertray and wheelarch liners
o Retuned exhaust system

Enhanced driving dynamics

- The aluminium-intensive suspension features revised spring, anti-roll bar and damper settings and a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli UHP tyre, for outstanding levels of ride quality, comfort, response and refinement.
- New design 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels.
- Retuned Servotronic power steering for improved feedback and feel.
- New 'Sport Traction' mode from ESP 8.1 system offers superb traction without being intrusive.

- Optional fade-resistant carbon ceramic brakes provide improved brake feel (only available on 20-inch wheels).
o Discs last lifetime of car and pad life doubled (in normal driving conditions).
- New, follow-to-stop precision radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control with five time-gap settings.
- Power output of the twin turbo 6.0 litre W12 engine remains at 552bhp (560PS/412kW).
- Top speed of 195mph (312km/h) and 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.2).

Enhanced cabin comfort and customer convenience

- New optional exclusive Naim for Bentley audio system with 1100 Watt amplifier provides the world's best in-car sound stage.
- New optional glovebox-located iPod, MP3 & USB interface connects personal music to the in-car infotainment system.
- Multi-layer seat construction for enhanced comfort.
- New optional full width rear seat with electrically adjustable outboard positions and fixed central seat.
- Park distance control system with new graphics on infotainment screen
- Aluminium foot pedals incorporating the "B" Bentley logo.

Improved personalisation and bespoke choice

- Enhanced choice of handcrafted interior and exterior finishes include:
o Contemporary style marquetry with crossbanding to door waistrails (Walnut & Chestnut veneers only).
o Traditional style marquetry with crossbanding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper centre console (Walnut & Chestnut veneers only).
o New chrome inlay strip to door waistrails.
o New two tone interior hide colour options providing greater opportunities for personalisation.
o Two new interior hide colours, Linen and Imperial Blue.
o Seat piping now available in 16 colours to allow customer to match secondary hide or single tone interior.
o Three new standard exterior paint colours (Havana, White Sand and Onyx) along with four unique duo-tone paint combinations (Havana, Dark Sapphire, Onyx and Midnight Emerald) for the first time on the Continental family

THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED

The new Flying Spur Speed shares the enhancements of the Continental Flying Spur model above with the following additions taken from the acclaimed GT Speed:

- A more powerful 600bhp (610PS/449kW) version of Bentley's highly acclaimed W12 with 553 lbft (750 Nm) of torque.
o A 9% increase in power and 15% increase in torque.
o Maximum torque constant from 1750 rev/min.

- More engaging Bentley driving experience through uprated chassis:
o 10mm lowered ride height, uprated spring/damper settings and uprated anti-roll bars for improved agility and body control.
o Exceptional roadholding thanks to superior grip from unique 9.5Jx20 multi-spoke alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli P-Zero performance tyres.
o Improved steering response achieved through retuned speed-sensitive Servotronic system, solid-mounted front subframe and stiffer rear bushings.
o 'Dynamic' mode introduced on the uprated Bosch 8.1 ESP system with more progressive intervention to cater for the more spirited driver.
- 0-60mph in 4.5 secs (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and a top speed of 200mph (322km/h).

- Unique Speed model styling cues:
o Front grille and lower air intakes in dark-tinted chrome matrix.
o Bright chrome grilles available as a no cost option.
o Wider rifled sports exhaust tail pipes.
o 'Speed' treadplates to all four doors.
o 3-spoke Sport leather steering wheel.
o Optional bright or dark tint aluminium fascia panel.
o Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals, knurled chrome/hide gearlever.
o Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and door panels.

THE NEW 2009 CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR

With typical Bentley understatement the styling of the new Continental Flying Spur is both evolutionary and subtly effective. At the front, the new bright chrome radiator grille, now more vertical, has a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the distinctive Bentley profile.

Beneath the grille, the new lower bumper features a wider, bolder central air intake. The black matrix grille also provides a 14 percent increase in airflow for the more powerful Speed version and the charge cooler intakes are positioned on the corners.

The lower grilles may also be specified in bright chrome to complement that of the main radiator. Chromed bezels around the headlamps complement the new frontal design.

At the rear, the new bumper with black lower valance and wraparound chrome trims make for a more slender appearance that is complemented by new chromed tail lamp bezels. Director of Design, Dirk van Braeckel explains the styling evolution:

"The Flying Spur is instantly recognisable on the road and we were keen to retain its individuality. The subtle styling changes have given the car a fresh look at the front and sleeker, more balanced appearance at the rear."

Enhanced cabin refinement

Since its launch in 2005, the Continental Flying Spur model has achieved a well-deserved reputation for outstanding cabin refinement. For the new model range, the Bentley engineering team were tasked to build on this success and create a unique cabin ambience with best in class refinement and comfort.

Key to that improvement is a comprehensive package of enhancements to the Flying Spur's already impressive acoustic suppression technology. The complex double-glazed windows, a standard feature since launch, now feature a sophisticated acoustic laminate inner layer for all side and rear windows. In addition, new tri-laminate acoustic underbody trays and wheel arch liners absorb road noise.

A redesigned exhaust system provides greater refinement while maintaining the sporty, baritone character of the exhaust note. Overall, these changes deliver a substantial improvement in cabin refinement.

Bentley's Head of Body and Trim Engineering, Peter Guest, explains the effect of this acoustic management:

"We are immensely proud that the cabin refinement of the new Flying Spur is best-in-class. While achieving superb levels of noise insulation, the sporting character and sense of connection with the road is undiminished."

Enhanced driving dynamics and ride comfort

At the heart of the Continental Flying Spur is Bentley's 6-litre, twin turbocharged W12 engine, the most compact 12-cylinder engine in production. The 48-valve head employs four camshafts and continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via an uprated ZF six-speed automatic transmission.

The W12 engine continues to produce 552bhp (560PS/412kW) at 6100 rev/min and a maximum torque of 650Nm (479lb ft) from 1600 rev/min across virtually the entire rev range.

In common with all Continental models, the Flying Spur employs a complex four-link suspension at the front and a trapezoidal multi-link system at the rear.

Much of the suspension is made from lightweight aluminium, benefiting steering feel and rolling comfort. Self-levelling air springs are standard, constantly monitoring and adjusting the ride height and damping according to road conditions.

Outstanding levels of ride quality and comfort were the target for the new Continental Flying Spur and to achieve this, Bentley engineers have recalibrated both spring and damper settings and introduced a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli P-Zero UHP tyre.

Using the same technology as the 20-inch performance tyre introduced on the 2008 Continental GT Speed, the 19-inch version is specially developed to optimise ride comfort and noise suppression, while providing outstanding grip and agility.

The hydraulics of the speed-sensitive Servotronic rack and pinion steering system have been retuned to reduce friction and improve steering feel and driver feedback.

The uprated advanced electronic stability control (ESP) 8.1 system has a new 'Sport Traction' mode that moderates ESP intervention at low speeds whilst providing a greater degree of driver interaction and control, offering superb traction without being intrusive.

Both Flying Spur models can now be specified with Bentley Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

As with conventional cruise control, ACC will maintain, within close limits, a 'set speed' as selected by the driver. In addition, ACC uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts braking and acceleration to maintain a 'time gap', as selected by the driver.

The 'time gap' also controls the vehicle dynamic response. The larger the time gap the more relaxed the acceleration and braking, allowing the driver to tune the ACC system to suit their own driving style and traffic conditions.

All Flying Spur models are equipped with the largest brakes of any production passenger car on sale today, with 405mm x 36mm ventilated front discs and 335mm x 22mm rears.

Bentley's carbon/silicon carbide brakes (CCB) are offered for the first time as an option on Continental Flying Spur. With even larger 20mm x 40mm cross-drilled front discs and 356 x 28mm rears, with eight-piston callipers, they may only be specified with 20-inch alloy wheels.

The lightweight, fade-resistant braking system minimises disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal driving conditions the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and brake pad life is doubled compared with the standard system. A 20kg reduction in rotating and unsprung mass also benefits steering response and handling.

Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering, comments:

"True to the Bentley tradition, the Flying Spur delivers effortless power while significant advancements in ride quality and comfort further emphasise its deserved reputation for world-class luxury. The new Speed model exemplifies our passion for creating cars that deliver truly exceptional performance and driving enjoyment."

Enhanced cabin comfort and customer convenience

The 2009 the Continental Flying Spur is the first model to feature the new Naim for Bentley audio system to create the world's best in-car sound stage.

Designed exclusively for Bentley by Naim, the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, it features an 1100 Watt amplifier – the world's most powerful production unit fitted in a car – and 15 speakers. The speaker drive units are specifically tailored by Naim to the cabin of each model in the Bentley range to provide a unique and personalized audio experience.

Bentley is also the first car manufacturer to use a next-generation Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in its audio system, enhancing the listening experience still further.

All cars are now fitted as standard with a handset allowing rear passengers to control the main infotainment system.

A new optional iPod, MP3 and USB interface is located in the glovebox, enabling customers to connect personal music to the in-car infotainment system. When an iPod is connected, the tracks are displayed on the infotainment screen.

This perfectly complements the optional rear seat entertainment package that comprises two headrest-mounted 7-inch LCD screens, a 6-DVD multi-changer and two sets of headphones. An enhanced remote control unit now incorporates the rear seat entertainment systems.

A further driver convenience feature is introduced for the park/distance control. The new graphics readout on the console-mounted infotainment screen complements the audible signal.

All new Flying Spur models also benefit from significant developments to the cabin interior. The seating of all new models is extensively redesigned, with a multi-layer seat construction the comfort of which is optimised using different materials.

Employing the latest body profiling databases, the seats are constructed to offer the optimum shape for front and rear seat occupants. In addition, the rear seat cushions are lengthened by 40mm for additional comfort and support.

For the first time on Flying Spur, customers specifying a five-seat configuration may now opt for a rear-seat configuration with fully adjustable outboard positions and a fixed central seat. The outer seats have full lumbar adjustment together with heating and massage functions and a facility to adjust the position of an unoccupied front passenger seat for even greater legroom. Seat ventilation is available as an optional extra.

Improved personalisation and bespoke choice

Already renowned for its unrivalled standard of interior craftsmanship, the cabin of the Continental Flying Spur is now even more luxurious, offering unparalleled opportunities for personalisation in this segment of the market. This follows an extensive development programme that marries the latest production technology with the skills of Bentley's craftsmen and women at its factory in Crewe, England.

Continental Flying Spur customers may now choose from an array of beautifully crafted inlays. These include chrome inlays to door waistrails and a choice of intricate marquetry wood inlays in contemporary and traditional designs, creating a unique and personalised appearance.

The contemporary style inlays comprise crossbanding to the door waistrails while the traditional style inlays feature crossbanding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper centre console. Both are available for Walnut and Chestnut veneers.

To further enhance the interior specification, seat piping is now available as a cost option and can be ordered in a contrast or non-contrast condition from the full colour palette of interior hides.

In addition, a new approach to the interior hide colour combinations provides customers with greater opportunities for personalisation. The door waistrails and lower door panels may now be matched to secondary hide while the centre door pads and armrests remain matched to the main hide colour creating a new two-tone effect.

Additions to the 2009 Flying Spur palette include two new hide colours (Linen and Imperial Blue) as well as three new standard exterior paint colours (Havana, White Sand and Onyx). Four unique duo-tone paint combinations (Havana, Dark Sapphire, Onyx and Midnight Emerald) are available for the first time on the Continental family.

THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED

Following the highly successful introduction of the Continental GT Speed coupe in 2007, Bentley – almost half of new Continental GTs now sold are Speed versions – Bentley now offers the 600bhp (610PS) W12 powertrain in the new Continental Flying Spur Speed to deliver a more powerful and engaging Bentley driving experience.

The Speed engine develops 15 percent more torque and nine percent more power than the standard Flying Spur, while engine efficiency is optimised by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system. The resultant performance is exceptional, with a top speed of 200mph (322km/h), a zero to 60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and effortless overtaking capability.

The most powerful four-door Bentley ever made, the Flying Spur Speed blends understated design cues to distinguish it from the Flying Spur. Its front grille and lower air intakes are dark-tinted chrome, while at the rear wider rifled sports exhaust tailpipes hint at the potential of the Speed model.

New 20-inch multi-spoke wheels available in both bright silver or darkened tungsten carry bespoke Pirelli PZero performance tyres introduced on the GT Speed model, which provide the car with superb grip and feedback.

The Speed's sporting performance is complemented by a highly capable chassis. Tauter handling and greater steering response with sharper turn-in and improved driver feedback is achieved through a retuned Servotronic steering system, direct-mounted front subframe and stiffer bushings.

Improved agility and body control is also achieved through uprated spring and damper settings as well as thicker anti-roll bars front and rear. To aid the car's high-speed dynamics, the Flying Spur Speed's self-levelling air suspension sits 10mm lower.

The advanced electronic stability programme (ESP), uprated to ESP 8.1 for both models, provides a greater degree of driver interaction and control.

The Flying Spur Speed offers a new 'Dynamic Mode' that allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds. Torque is reinstated more quickly after the traction control system is triggered, giving the spirited driver a greater sense of control and the ability to exploit the full potential of the new engine.

[Source: Bentley]

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