The Evolution of the Bentley Mulsanne
The Bentley Mulsanne stands as a symbol of British luxury, craftsmanship, and engineering excellence. As Bentley’s flagship model from 2010 until its discontinuation in 2020, the Mulsanne embodied opulence, bespoke craftsmanship, and advanced technology. Over its decade-long production run, it evolved through various updates, special editions, and trim levels, reflecting both technological progress and changing customer preferences. This article provides a detailed, factual account of the Bentley Mulsanne’s evolution, including production years, model variants, and notable features.
Introduction to the Bentley Mulsanne
Named after the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans race car, the Bentley Mulsanne made its debut at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, with production commencing in 2010. It was designed to fill the gap at the top of Bentley’s lineup, offering a bespoke, handcrafted luxury sedan that combined traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
The Mulsanne was built at Bentley’s Crewe headquarters in England, emphasizing artisanal manufacturing and meticulous attention to detail. It was designed for an exclusive clientele seeking ultimate comfort, performance, and customization.
Production Timeline and Generational Overview
- First Generation (2010–2020): The Bentley Mulsanne was produced over a decade, spanning from 2010 to 2020. During this period, Bentley introduced various updates, special editions, and trim levels to enhance the model’s appeal.
- Discontinuation: Bentley announced the end of the Mulsanne’s production in 2020, citing changing market demands and the shift towards electric vehicles. Its successor, the Bentley Flying Spur (with hybrid variants) and future EV models, aim to continue Bentley’s luxury legacy.
Initial Launch and Early Models (2010–2012)
2010 Bentley Mulsanne
The debut of the Mulsanne marked Bentley’s return to the large luxury sedan segment. It featured a 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, a hallmark of Bentley’s powertrain lineage, producing approximately 505 horsepower and 752 Nm (554 lb-ft) of torque. This engine was a modern evolution of Bentley’s traditional V8, combined with twin-turbocharging for improved efficiency and performance.
The initial model was equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission and featured rear-wheel drive. The Mulsanne’s construction emphasized craftsmanship, with hand-stitched leather interiors, bespoke wood veneers, and customizable options for customers.
Early Models and Trim Levels
At launch, the Mulsanne was offered primarily in a single, highly customizable trim level, emphasizing bespoke features rather than fixed variants. Customers could choose from a wide array of interior materials, colors, and finishes, making each Mulsanne unique.
Major Updates and Special Editions (2013–2018)
Throughout its production, Bentley introduced several updates and special editions to keep the Mulsanne fresh and desirable.
2013–2014 Facelift
In 2013, Bentley launched a significant mid-cycle refresh for the Mulsanne. Key updates included:
- Exterior: Subtle redesigns to the front grille, bumpers, and lighting elements for a more modern appearance.
- Interior: Introduction of new infotainment systems, improved soundproofing, and additional customization options.
- Powertrain: The 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 engine remained largely unchanged but with optimizations for better efficiency and emissions.
2016 Model Year Enhancements
Bentley introduced further refinements:
- Technology: Upgraded infotainment systems with larger screens, navigation, and connectivity features.
- Comfort: Improved rear-seat entertainment options, better climate control, and new seat adjustment features.
- Driving Dynamics: Slight refinements to suspension and chassis tuning for improved ride quality.
Special Editions and Custom Models
Bentley released several notable special editions during this period:
- Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification (2012, 2016, 2018): A performance-oriented, more dynamic version featuring unique interior trims, upgraded suspension, and enhanced driving features.
- Mulsanne Speed (2014–2020): The Mulsanne Speed was a high-performance variant, introduced in 2014, with a more powerful 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 producing approximately 530 horsepower and 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft). It featured a top speed of 190 mph, sportier exterior styling, and exclusive interior options.
- Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase (2012–2020): Offering increased rear-seat legroom, this variant catered to customers seeking enhanced chauffeur-driven comfort, with bespoke customization options.
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The Mulsanne Speed and Ultimate Editions
Mulsanne Speed (2014–2020)
The Speed version of the Mulsanne was the pinnacle of Bentley’s luxury and performance in the model’s lineup. It featured:
- Engine: 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8, upgraded for more power and torque.
- Performance: 530 horsepower and 1,100 Nm torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of around 4.8 seconds.
- Design: Distinctive styling cues like a blacked-out grille, speed-themed badging, and unique wheel designs.
- Interior: Lounging comfort with bespoke materials, optional carbon fiber trim, and advanced multimedia systems.
2018–2020 Special Editions
To mark the final years of production, Bentley released several limited editions:
- Mulsanne 6.75 Edition by Mulliner (2019): Celebrating the engine’s legacy, this edition featured bespoke interior trims, unique badging, and special paint options.
- Mulsanne Grand Limousine (2014–2018): An ultra-luxury extended wheelbase version with rear-seat amenities like reclining seats, bespoke audio, and personalized interior options.
Trim Levels and Customization Options
Unlike mass-market vehicles, the Bentley Mulsanne was primarily offered as a bespoke product, with trim levels defined more by packages and editions rather than fixed variants. Nonetheless, several key options and packages distinguished different models:
- Standard Mulsanne: The baseline luxury sedan, heavily customizable in terms of interior, exterior, and features.
- Mulsanne Speed: Focused on performance and sporty aesthetics.
- Extended Wheelbase: Prioritized rear passenger comfort with additional legroom.
- Mulliner Versions: Highly bespoke models crafted by Bentley’s Mulliner division, offering unique interior trims, special paint, and personalized features.
- Limited Editions: Special models with exclusive badges, unique interior/exterior finishes, and bespoke features.
Technological and Luxury Features Over the Years
Throughout its production, the Mulsanne saw technological upgrades:
- Infotainment: From basic systems in 2010 to advanced multimedia setups with touchscreen displays, navigation, and connectivity by 2018.
- Driver Assistance: Incorporation of adaptive cruise control, parking assist, night vision, and lane departure warnings in later models.
- Luxury Features: Massaging seats, bespoke audio systems (including Naim audio in later years), rear-seat entertainment, and extensive personalization options.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Bentley Mulsanne
The Bentley Mulsanne’s decade-long run exemplifies a commitment to traditional craftsmanship blended with modern technology. Its evolution from a straightforward luxury sedan to a highly bespoke, performance-oriented flagship showcased Bentley’s dedication to exclusivity and innovation.
While production concluded in 2020, the Mulsanne’s legacy endures through its influence on Bentley’s design philosophy and the bespoke luxury segment. Its various editions and customization options remain highly sought after in the collector and enthusiast communities, symbolizing a pinnacle of British luxury motoring.
As Bentley shifts focus toward electric mobility with models like the upcoming EXP 100 GT and the planned electric Flying Spur, the Mulsanne remains a testament to the brand’s craftsmanship, performance, and commitment to bespoke luxury during a remarkable era in automotive history.
