Car Statistics: Bentley - Continental Flying Spur  Series 05 (4 stars)

Styling (3 stars)

The Flying Spur's sheer size gives it plenty of road presence but its hard not to feel slightly disappointed by the bland styling.

Handling (4 stars)

Safe and composed - adaptable dampers help to combine good ride quality with a surprising level of enthusiasm for the corners.

Comfort (5 stars)

One of the best places in the world to while away a long journey. Brilliant cabin combines craftsmanship with an impressive toy count.

Quality (5 stars)

Far more modern-feeling and better built than the older Arnage - while still offering the sort of hand-build quality you'd expect from a Bentley.

Performance (5 stars)

The 6.0 litre W12 engine gives vast, seamless urge - all the way to the 205 mph top speed. The fastest production saloon in the world.

Roominess (4 stars)

Decent space for front and rear seat occupants - although Bentley's emphasis on owner-drivers means there are fewer of the rear seat toys you'd expect of a car in this class.

Costs (2 stars)

Enormous thirst, expensive servicing and what's likely to be steep depreciation mean only those with the deepest pockets need apply.

Value (2 stars)

Compared to the Arnage, the Flying Spur looks like compellingly good value. But next to the Mercedes S-Class it seems very expensive. Depends on what you reckon the Bentley

Stereo (4 stars)

Brilliant stereo and intuitive, easy-to-use satnav come as standard.

Other

Replacement: 2013

Overall Rating (4 stars)