The 2025 Bentley Flying Spur is a stunning luxury sedan, boasting a 771-hp plug-in hybrid V8, a handcrafted interior, and a starting price of $276,450. As a car reviewer with eight years of experience testing luxury vehicles across California’s highways and city streets, I’ve marveled at its blend of supercar pace and limousine-like comfort. However, even a masterpiece like the Flying Spur has its flaws. For US buyers considering this opulent sedan, there are notable drawbacks that might make you think twice. Here are the top five reasons to avoid the 2025 Bentley Flying Spur, based on my experience and insights from industry experts.
Top 5 Reasons to Avoid the 2025 Bentley Flying Spur
1. Hefty Price Tag: A Costly Investment
The 2025 Flying Spur starts at $276,450, with the Mulliner trim at $298,250, but options like the $9,615 Naim audio system or $8,665 Neptune Blue paint can push prices well over $330,000, per Motor1. Compared to rivals like the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class ($205,000) or Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid (under $276,000), the Bentley’s cost feels steep. Kelley Blue Book notes that customization can balloon the price, making it a significant financial commitment for US buyers.
- Why It Matters: The high cost may not justify the value for buyers who don’t need bespoke features.
- My Experience: Configuring a Mulliner model in Dallas felt like pricing a small house, with options quickly adding tens of thousands.
2. Heavy Weight: Compromised Agility
At 6,060 pounds, the Flying Spur Speed is nearly 500 pounds heavier than its W12 predecessor due to the 25.9-kWh battery, per Edmunds. While the Bentley Performance Active Chassis with all-wheel steering and active anti-roll bars masks this heft, Road & Track notes a “slight disconnect” in responsiveness compared to lighter rivals like the 5,311-pound Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid. For US drivers seeking pure sportiness, this weight can dull the driving thrill.
- Why It Matters: The added weight impacts handling precision on twisty roads, despite the 771-hp output.
- My Experience: On Malibu’s Pacific Coast Highway, the Spur’s heft was noticeable in tight corners, lacking the nimbleness of a Porsche Panamera.
3. Aging Infotainment: Not Quite Cutting-Edge
The Flying Spur’s 12.3-inch rotating touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but PistonHeads criticizes its “ageing infotainment system” for lagging behind competitors like the Mercedes S-Class, which offers a more intuitive interface. While the My Bentley app provides real-time traffic data, per Bentley Motors, the system’s processing speed and menu navigation feel dated compared to tech-focused rivals.
- Why It Matters: US buyers expect seamless, modern tech in a $276,000+ sedan.
- My Experience: In a San Francisco test drive, the infotainment lagged when switching apps, frustrating for a car of this caliber.
4. Limited Powertrain Options: No Pure V8 or W12
The 2025 Flying Spur exclusively uses a plug-in hybrid V8 (771 hp), replacing the iconic W12 and non-hybrid V8 options, per Car and Driver. While the hybrid offers 47 miles of EV range, evo notes that some buyers may miss the raw character of the W12 or the lighter 5,137-pound V8 Flying Spur S, which handled “like a car whose curb weight starts with a four.” US enthusiasts who prefer traditional engines may feel shortchanged.
- Why It Matters: The hybrid-only setup limits choice for buyers who don’t want electrification.
- My Experience: Driving a pre-facelift V8 Flying Spur in Napa Valley felt more visceral than the heavier hybrid, which prioritizes efficiency.
5. High Maintenance Costs: A Hidden Expense
While Kelley Blue Book deems the Flying Spur reliable due to its handcrafted build, maintenance costs are a concern. Bentley’s three-year, unlimited-mile warranty is shorter than the Rolls-Royce Ghost’s four-year plan, and Car and Driver warns of “substantial” upkeep costs. With complex systems like the Bentley Dynamic Ride and twin-valve dampers, repairs can be pricey for US owners without deep pockets.
- Why It Matters: High maintenance expenses can offset the initial purchase value over time.
- My Experience: A Bentley owner I spoke with in Chicago mentioned annual service costs exceeding $5,000, a shock even for luxury buyers.
Verdict: A Luxurious Dream with Drawbacks
The 2025 Bentley Flying Spur is a remarkable sedan, blending 771-hp performance with exquisite craftsmanship, but it’s not without flaws. Its steep price, hefty weight, aging infotainment, lack of non-hybrid options, and high maintenance costs may deter US buyers seeking value, agility, or modern tech. Compared to rivals like the Rolls-Royce Ghost or Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the Flying Spur’s compromises could outweigh its allure for some. If these drawbacks concern you, test drive a Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid or explore customization options at a Bentley dealer to weigh the trade-offs. For those who prioritize ultimate luxury and power, the Flying Spur remains a top contender, but it’s not perfect.
Author: AutoTopNL is an online Car filming and testing company. We are one of the biggest car review channels in Europe with 20 million+ views every month and 3.000.000+ subscribers. We’re not interested in eco & green (unless it’s like, really, really fast). Screaming exhausts, whining superchargers and blowing turbo’s is what you want to hear!
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