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Over the years Bentley has been strengthening its presence in eastern markets. The company introduced in India the Continental Flying Spur back in October 2008, while in April this year we reported that Bentley was to launch two Continental models for China. Now Bentley Motors announces two unique Continental models, designed and engineered exclusively for the Middle East.

Developed at Bentley’s Crewe headquarters, these two models offer a range of features specially put in for Arabic customers. The Middle East market has doubled its contribution to Bentley Motors’ worldwide sales over the last five years and it now represents 10 percent of the company’s retail sales globally.

“We have created these exclusive new models for our Arabic customers in recognition of the growing importance of these influential customers. Bentley has a long and proud tradition of being able to design, engineer and personalise our cars to the individual styling and driving tastes of our customers and these special-edition Bentleys showcase these skills for the Middle East Market,” Geoff Dowding, Regional Director, Asia and Middle East said.

The two unique models are the Continental Flying Spur Arabia and the Continental Flying Spur Speed Arabia. They maintain all the performance of the company’s Continental Flying Spur and Continental Flying Spur Speed while adding a range of exterior and interior features. Additionally both cars are distinguished by subtle exterior and interior ‘Arabia’ motifs which include an exterior front fender badge, tread plate and ashtray lid badge.

The Flying Spur Arabia can go from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 312 km/h, courtesy its 6 litre, W12 engine. The Flying Spur Speed Arabia gets a more powerful 600 bhp version of the W12 making it capable of zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. This engine delivers 553 lb-ft of torque which is a 15 percent increase over its sister model. Alternately it can develop 9 percent more power, allowing for a top speed of 322 km/h.

Unique wheels are offered on both models, with the Flying Spur Arabia getting 14-spoke diamond alloy wheels and the Flying Spur Speed Arabia getting 10-spoke, 20 inch wheels. The interiors are luxurious in keeping with Bentley philosophy, while an additional valet key with limited functionality is provided, which allows the car to be driven without access to the boot or the glove box.

Additional options include Adaptive Cruise Control with ‘follow to stop’ feature, privacy phone handsets in the front and rear of the car, a rear view camera, as well as the iPod interface linked to the infotainment system.