Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (308 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment is complex and heavily bifurcated by generation and ownership phase.
6 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentExtremely high maintenance and repair costs
Includes engine-out services for W12 repairs ($7,000-$15,000 for labor alone), $16,000 infotainment system replacements, $6,000 power steering racks, and $3,000-$5,000 brake jobs requiring specialized computer tools.
- Very frequentCatastrophic depreciation
Vehicles lose a majority of their value within a few years, leading to low purchase prices but unchanged ultra-high repair costs.
- RecurrentW12 engine complexity and serviceability
Any significant repair requires complete engine removal, leading to prohibitive labor costs.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentHistorical reliability concerns (older generations)
Mentions of vacuum hose leaks requiring expensive repairs ($15,000+ from a dealer), though DIY bypass solutions exist.
- IsolatedElectromechanical failures
Issues with power door handles, whistling sunroofs at high speed, and other complex system faults.
- IsolatedDual-clutch transmission low-speed jerkiness
Noted in some reviews as a negative for a luxury sedan.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Discussions indicate a split in engine preference. Some owners report the latest V8 models (2020+) are considered more reliable and have better weight distribution for handling, while others favor the unique character and power of the W12. For used models, the V8 is frequently suggested due to perceived lower running costs. The "Speed" trim for the W12 is noted by one source as being purely aesthetic for the Flying Spur, unlike the performance-enhanced Continental GT Speed.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (and Maybach S-Class), Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, Porsche Panamera and Rolls-Royce Ghost.
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment is complex and heavily bifurcated by generation and ownership phase. The vehicle is universally praised for its presence, luxury materials, powerful performance (particularly W12 models), and supreme comfort over long distances. However, a very strong and recurrent theme across all discussions is the extreme cost and complexity of maintenance and repairs, which forms the core of negative sentiment. Owners of newer models (2020+) express high satisfaction with the driving experience, technology, and refinement but voice significant apprehension about long-term ownership costs. Owners and prospective buyers of older generations (pre-2019, specifically Gen 1 and Gen 2) highlight catastrophic depreciation and nightmarish repair scenarios that can render the cars economically unviable. The consensus is that the Flying Spur is a phenomenal luxury sedan when new or under warranty, but its value proposition collapses dramatically on the used market, presenting a severe financial risk for unprepared buyers.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury sedan compared to the wafting comfort of a Mercedes S-Class or the chauffeur-centric Rolls-Royce Ghost. It is consistently described as offering a more special, opulent, and engaging experience than German rivals like the A8 or 7 Series, with far superior interior materials. However, it is noted that this comes at a significant premium in purchase price and, especially, operating costs. Compared to the Porsche Panamera (with which it shares a platform), the Flying Spur is viewed as the more luxurious, comfortable, and traditional option, while the Panamera is sportier. A recurring point is that the Flying Spur's ownership costs are in a league of their own, far exceeding even other premium brands.
Recommended configurations
Specific configuration advice is limited. For potential used buyers, a very thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is overwhelmingly recommended. An extended warranty is strongly advised if purchasing a used model out of factory warranty. For those concerned with maintenance, the V8 engine is suggested over the W12 due to lower complexity and cost of engine-out services. One owner recommends avoiding the W12 Speed trim if value is a concern, as it doesn't offer significant performance gains over the standard W12.
General recommendations
Suitable only for buyers with a very high and sustained budget for maintenance, repairs, and depreciation. Strongly recommended for purchase new or certified pre-owned with a comprehensive warranty. Absolutely not recommended as a project car or for buyers without direct access to a specialized independent mechanic or a dealership. For used purchases, budget a minimum of $6,000-$15,000 USD annually for maintenance and repairs, with the understanding that single major failures (e.g., infotainment system, engine-out repairs) can exceed $15,000-$24,000. Prospective buyers are warned that parts are astronomically expensive (e.g., fenders at $24,000, bumper covers at $8,000). The car depreciates extremely rapidly, making it a poor financial investment. It is recommended as a superb luxury experience for those who can treat it as a disposable expense.
Remarks
The owner experience is almost entirely defined by running costs. The platform is shared with the Porsche Panamera and Continental GT, which informs some driving characteristics and part commonality, but Bentley-specific parts remain extraordinarily expensive. There is a known recall for 2018-2021 models related to accelerator pedal issues. A significant generational shift occurred around 2020 (third generation), with the newer models featuring more modern technology and design. However, the underlying financial risk of ownership remains a constant theme across all years. Community feedback is heavily weighted towards the financial and practical challenges of ownership rather than day-to-day driving impressions, which are generally described in superlative terms. Analysis based on approximately 60 substantive owner discussions and inquiries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2015 | 1 | 0 | back over prevention |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices2 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2020 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 20V452000
Bentley Motors, Inc. (Bentley) is recalling certain 2020 Flying Spur vehicles. Moisture can enter the Top View rear camera holder and result in a reduction in the clarity of the rear view camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assemblycampaign 21V104000
Bentley Motors, Inc. (Bentley) is recalling one 2020 Flying Spur vehicle. The fuel tank may not have been welded properly during manufacturing, which could result in a fuel leak.
Specifications
4.0 V8 TFSi Ultra Performance Hybrid
Plug-in hybrid · 782 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2026