The Mulsanne receives a high-performance 'Speed' model. | Bentley

Bentley Mulsanne | Bentley Mulsanne Speed

High-Performance "Speed" Model Debuts for Mulsanne

Bentley has announced the "Mulsanne Speed," a high-performance version based on its flagship model, theMulsanne"Mulsanne." It will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show 2014, opening in October, and will go on sale this winter.Paris Motor Show

Text by HAMADA Masaru (OPENERS)

Engine Redesign Boosts Power

Bentley has introduced the "Mulsanne Speed," a sporty variant of its flagship saloon, the "Mulsanne." It will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October, with deliveries commencing in the winter.

The traditional 6.75-liter V8 twin-turbo engine has been re-engineered for the Mulsanne Speed. Through comprehensive improvements to the fuel system and optimization of the turbochargers, it now produces a maximum output of 537 ps and peak torque of 1,100 Nm. This represents an increase of 25 ps and 80 Nm compared to the current model.

With this increased power, the car, weighing over 2.6 tons, achieves a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds, a 0.4-second improvement, and a top speed of 305 km/h, specs befitting a flagship's sporty grade.

Bentley Mulsanne Speed | Bentley Mulsanne Speed

Fuel efficiency has also been improved, achieving 14.6 L/100km (approximately 6.85 km/L) on the EU cycle, with CO2 emissions reduced by 13 percent to 342 g/km compared to the current Mulsanne.

Reflecting its sportier character, the Mulsanne Speed not only features engine enhancements but also gains an aggressive "Sport" mode for its suspension and steering settings. In this mode, the air suspension becomes firmer, and the steering response becomes more direct. Naturally, the traditional "Comfort" and "Bentley" modes, prioritizing ride comfort, are retained, preserving its character as a limousine for chauffeured driving.

Bentley Mulsanne | Bentley Mulsanne Speed

High-Performance "Speed" Model Debuts for Mulsanne (2)

Sporty Accents Within Luxury

To express the character of the Mulsanne Speed, the front grille and air intakes feature dark paint, and the headlights are also unified in a dark color, creating a sporty ambiance. The 21-inch wheels, the first to be specified with left and right designations at Bentley, are cast, then machined, and finally hand-finished.

In addition to the standard colors, four new exterior colors (Spectre, Candy Red, Camel, and Marlin) have been added for the Mulsanne Speed. While 25 colors are available as standard, over 100 are offered when including optional choices.

Inside, a new color scheme is exclusively offered, featuring a contrast between light grey diamond-quilted leather and dark grey plain leather. Additionally, a new option of piano black with carbon fiber inlay has been developed specifically for the Mulsanne Speed.

Other interior and exterior features include standard equipment from the "Mulliner Driving Specification," a special option for the Mulsanne, such as diamond-quilted leather door panels and seats, "Bentley" emblems on all headrests, inner door handles polished to a coin finish, and drilled alloy sports pedals.

Bentley Mulsanne | Bentley Mulsanne Speed

High-Performance "Speed" Model Debuts for Mulsanne (3)

Standard Model Also Updated

The infotainment system includes a 60GB HDD with increased capacity for storing more music and videos, space for an iPad and keyboard, onboard Wi-Fi, and the "Naim for Bentley" premium audio system with 14 speakers delivering a total output of 2,200W.

To coincide with the Mulsanne Speed's debut, the standard Mulsanne will also feature a new engine from the 2015 model year. While output remains the same at 512 ps and 1,020 Nm, efficiency has been improved by 13 percent. Additionally, new body colors and various options will be available alongside the Mulsanne Speed.

Bentley's new flagship model, the Mulsanne Speed, will debut at the Paris Motor Show in October, with deliveries scheduled for this winter. Pricing and Japanese market introduction details have yet to be announced.