The front end is dominated by the marque's trademark mesh grille, as well as two large round headlamps and LED daytime running lights mounted lower. It has a long nose and short deck and a retractable Bentley mascot is optional. Buyers have their choice of more than 130 standard exterior colors and 24 interior hide colors.
The Mulsanne's 6.75L, twin-turbocharged V8 produces 505 horsepower and an impressive 752 ft-lb of torque, while cylinder deactivation technology allows it to deliver a combined 13 mpg. The engine is paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. And although the Mulsanne is relatively heavy at 5,650 pounds, the powerplant offers 0?60 mph times of under 5.5 seconds.
Although it shares some of its mechanical and electrical components with other Audi and Volkswagen products, the Mulsanne is still a hand-built Bentley from Crewe and its interior is top-notch, with high-end leather and wood surfaces used throughout. Bentley says the interior takes 165 hours to assemble, with the heated steering wheel cover taking nearly five hours to complete by hand. The MMI interface, entertainment system, air suspension system and transmission are all Audi A8 units.
A host of airbags are standard, including front units and dual side airbags for both front and rear passengers. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are also part of the package, as well as traction control, stability control, tire pressure monitors and braking assist.
Options include a dynamics package, which includes a performance engine tune, recalibrated transmission, free-flowing exhaust, 21-inch wheels and unique seats. A Mulliner edition is also available, ramping up the car's interior luxury one step further with a bevy of customizable options.