Bentley Mulsanne Family Adds Length and Luxury

Bentley’s pinnacle model, the Mulsanne, has been updated with more models and new luxury features.

For the first time, buyers can now choose between three models: the Mulsanne, Mulsanne Speed and Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase. All three of the cars get the same front end redesign, which brings a slightly more rounded look, while inside, the interior of the new Mulsanne uses metal fittings, leather, handcrafted wood and glass switchgear.

The extended wheelbase version is all-new and offers a wheelbase stretched out by 9.8 inches, all of which goes to the benefit of the rear passenger. Bentley knows that its extended wheelbase customers will mostly be driven by a chauffeur, so special attention is paid to the back seat.

Airline-style electric leg rests are integrated into both rear seats and can extend outwards and pivot to offer the choice between upright, relaxed and reclined positions. Also like an airplane, each seat has a fold down work table. Privacy curtains can also be controlled by the rear seat passengers.

In between the two rear seats is a finely crafted center console made from metal, glass and leather, fit with USB ports, a pen holder and cupholders.

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Those looking for performance can opt for the Mulsanne Speed, capable of running from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds thanks to a 530-hp, 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. Besides the added power, the Speed model also gets selectable sport suspension and a specially calibrated ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. Dark tint, a custom exhaust and hand-finished 21-inch wheels set the Speed apart visually.

Standard and extended wheelbase models both use the same engine, just with slightly less power, 505 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque. New active engine mounts have been used to help control vibrations while a special sound deadening has been added to the tires to help reduce road noise.

Other updated features include new LED headlights that automatically adjust pattern to suit the driving condition, a new infotainment system, an upgraded audio system that comes with 20 speakers and a 2,200-watt amplifier, safety tech like blind spot warning and more.

Bentleys are handcrafted and it takes a full 150 hours to create a full Bentley interior and 400 hours to build the entire car. The contrast stitching alone takes 37 hours to complete.

The redesigned car will be revealed next week at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

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