The success of the V8-powered Continental GT finally convinced Bentley’s top brass to put that magnificent engine in the Flying Spur flagship as well. Time was when people who could afford a Bentley saloon would settle for nothing except the biggest, thirstiest engine, because it was cool. But in today’s world of efficiency and environment and polar bears, it isn’t anymore.

The good news is that Bentely’s downsizing has actually resulted in car that is nicer and more exciting than the one with the big W12-engined model. For one thing, the V8 sounds pretty sporty and that, the soundtrack, is half the joy of driving a fast car.

And Bentley Flying Spur V8 certainly is fast. Very fast. The 4.0 liter V8 engine in this car develops 507 PS (500 bhp / 373 kW) and 660 Nm of torque, which translates into a 0 to 60 time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 183 mph (295 km/h). The car also has a fuel range of 520 miles (840 km), which is unbelievably good. This Flying Spur V8 is a true globetrotter. You can cross continents with maximum ease and comfort.

You need to be a hard-core Bentley aficionado to tell the Flying Spur V8 apart from its W12 sibling. On the outside, the only differences between the two include the Bentley winged badge which has a red center in the V8 model, and black grilles. Under the bonnet though, eight chromed exhaust finishers leave you in no doubt as to the identity of this model.

The V8 has a monotone interior colour split, Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus wood veneer, a single-piece three-person rear seat, single front armrest, 19” Classic alloy wheels in a painted finish and a choice of seven exterior paints and four interior colours. Bentley Flying Spur V8 will make its debut at the Geneva Motor show along with the new and more powerful Continental GT Speed.