Bentley Mulsanne

Bentley has introduced a range of new luxury features to their flagship model the Mulsanne. The features help make it more refined and luxurious both in and out. 

Bentley Mulsanne

Its majestic design remains untouched. Power is still delivered from a 6¾-litre V8 engine that develops 505hp (377 kW) and a massive 1020 Nm torque. The engine’s dramatic torque delivery ensures that the driver only needs to tap the accelerator to enjoy the deep, muffled V8 sound and phenomenon acceleration. The engine is married to an eight speed automatic transmission which can be operated by steering mounted paddles. A Drive Dynamics Control system operated by a rotary switch mounted next to the gearshift selector is used to select from three standard modes - Bentley, Sport and Comfort - offering precise calibration of suspension and steering control systems. Drive Dynamics Control system operated by a rotary switch mounted next to the gearshift selector can be used to select from three standard modes; Bentley, Sport and Comfort - offering precise calibration of suspension and steering control systems. The Mulsanne’s air suspension system, with continuously variable dampers, creates an even more refined and comfortable ride at lower speeds. At high speeds the ride height can be automatically adjusted to reduce lift and improve aerodynamic stability. Just as before the Mulsanne rides on 20-inch alloy wheels with ZR 20 tyres as standard. Customers can also choose from large 21-inch wheels fitted with ZR 21 tyres. 

Design remains untouched

It’s only when one opens its large doors does the new changes are revealed. Inside the new Mulsanne comes with a new Comfort Specification interior make over. This adds comfort headrests, footrests and loose cushions. Comfort headrests come with manually adjustable wings for lateral support to aid relaxation when chauffeur-driven. The super-soft headrests are designed to fold neatly, avoiding any creasing of the hide, while also extending lower than standard headrests to ensure maximum comfort for an even greater range of passenger statures.

Majestic side profile

New footrests are now available, trimmed in flat-cut cabin carpet and hide to match each individual vehicle. Designed to blend in and provide unobtrusive additional comfort, especially when rear seats are reclined. The footrests can be stowed under the front seats when not in use. Seat comfort is extended with fine duck down filled loose cushions, trimmed using the same traditionally-tanned hide as the seats, included with the Comfort Specification. The design incorporates Bentley Winged Emblems, but also bespoke stitching or piping can be specified. Further cabin revisions have been made, with a new rear door armrest storage compartment introduced as standard. This hide-lined compartment, in each rear door, can conveniently hold mobile phones, personal items or Bluetooth headphones for Rear Seat Entertainment. Whether relaxing or working in the luxurious surroundings of the rear cabin, privacy can be attained through the touch of a button, with new privacy curtains offered as a Crewe-fitted option. Controlled from the driving seat or rear compartment via the window-lift switches, the curtains are fully integrated into the rear doors and rear windscreen surround. 

Added comfort from foot-wells

The new Crewe-fitted Entertainment Specification option offers a full menu of communication, entertainment and information, with rear picnic tables designed for an iPad and wireless keyboard. Once deployed, the picnic tables reveal a smooth hide-trimmed writing surface, and at the touch of a button, the surface lifts to reveal a dedicated space for an iPad and keyboard, ready to connect to a web browser via the on-board Wi-Fi router. Crafted in solid metal, fine veneer and hide, the tables feature an adjustable screen angle with an anti-trap sensor to protect fingers. An iPad can be charged when the ignition is on, yet is fully detachable but also out of sight once stowed.

Integrated Ipad system

The Entertainment Specification is further enhanced with twin, eight inch LCD headrest screens, incorporating a 20 GB hard drive and DVD player, played through a 'Naim for Bentley' premium audio system, while two sets of Bluetooth headphones and a remote control puts the power in the hands of the occupants. Connectivity is boosted with the introduction of a Wi-Fi router with a high speed Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) phone module and SIM card reader, located in the glove box, providing a rolling Wi-Fi hotspot for internet access which can be accessed by eight Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously. There is a dedicated antenna housed in the boot lid, outside of the vehicle's steel frame, giving improved signal strength versus a handheld device. Intended for the discerning traveller, a range of bespoke Mulsanne luggage pieces hand made by renowned Italian luggage specialists Schedoni are now available.

Automatic curtains for some extra privacy

The full collection is made of six pieces, two large cases, two small cases and two foldable garment bags. The overall shape of the luggage is inspired by the inner door panel design of the car, with the frame surrounding the main side panels echoing the main feature frame of the door with its characteristic twin ridge. The frame also serves to neatly guide the luggage in position into the boot of the car whilst also protecting the handle. The pieces are hand-made to customer's specification, featuring monogram Bentley lining and embossed Bentley logos on the main panels and use the same hides that go into a Bentley car. The items can be purchased as a full 6 piece set, single or multiple bags. 

Rear design with the LED taillights

Prices for the new Bentley Mulsanne will be reveled when it debuts at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show in March.