Do not be fooled by the sedan silhouette. The Bentley Flying Spur Speed is appropriately named. The new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain combines a V8 petrol engine with a powerful electric motor, to deliver 11% more torque than even the previous Flying Spur Speed – and close to 20% more power overall. In practice, that means acceleration from a standing start to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds (0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds) and a top speed of 177 mph (285 km/h).

Dynamic handling is enhanced by a suite of cutting-edge chassis technology called Bentley Performance Active Chassis. It includes active all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering, as well as the innovative Bentley Dynamic Ride system, which aids the car’s stability through corners. New twin-valve dampers enable the suspension system to adapt to the driving situation on demand, for example offering a more refined ride in Comfort mode – even when negotiating potholes or other surface imperfections – while also delivering greater stability and control when driving in Sport mode.

Built to exhilarate in every sense, the new Flying Spur Speed is more powerful and driver-focused than any Flying Spur before it.

Inside, the upholstery features embroidered ‘First Edition’ emblems on each seat, alongside a stunning list of premium features that are normally only available as options. That includes the Wellness Seating specification, comprising Postural Adjust and Seat Auto Climate, for maximum comfort and wellbeing. It includes the Touring Specification for easier, safer, open-road driving, and the beautiful Bentley Rotating Display.

Music comes courtesy of the Naim for Bentley audio system – arguably the finest in-car hi-fi available in any production car – while the ambience is enhanced even further with the addition of a panoramic sunroof and mood lighting. Every detail is elevated, in fact, right down to the deep-pile overmats in the footwells.