Number 2. Bentley Flying Spur
Bentley’s four-door ‘Continental’-series limousine debuted in 2006 as the Continental Flying Spur, only shedding the nomenclative prefix that ties it to Crewe’s contemporary two-door GT with its most recent model refresh in 2014.
However, the Flying Spur is now in its third generation, as seen by the prouder, more muscular appearance, which takes considerably from the most contemporary, handsome Continental GT coupé. Crewe’s ‘junior’ saloon benefits significantly from a new platform co-developed with Porsche, which employs four-wheel steering and dynamic anti-roll bars. It also helps to isolate the tremendously sumptuous interior from the road, laying the groundwork for very superb driving dynamics. Grip, balance, and steering have all improved substantially.
Of course, there’s the same 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine, which produces 626bhp plus limitless torque and propels the vehicle to 62mph in less than four seconds and on to a peak speed of more than 200mph. The Spur is also available with Bentley’s lighter, more freely revving V8 and a six-cylinder Flying Spur hybrid engine. The latter fits the large Bentley rather well, with its near-silent EV progress providing a sepulchral sensation of tranquilly while mooching. When its V6 engine kicks in, it’s nearly as rapid as the V8, even if it lacks the spirit of that engine.
Never before has the Spur felt so complete, so capable of fulfilling the role of supersonic, premium driver’s vehicle. And much of it is still related to the cabin. Despite being Bentley’s entry-level limousine, the Flying Spur has a really luxury inside with soft, well stitched leathers, realistic, natural veneers, and eye-catching and tactile metal brightwork.
Number 3. Mercedes Maybach S-Class
