The Bentley Mulsanne Generation 1 was produced from 2010 to 2020. It marked a significant step in Bentley's history as it brought back the iconic nameplate of the Mulsanne, which was last used on a Rolls-Royce Phantom-based model from 1984 to 1992.
Design and Features:
The first-generation Mulsanne features a sleek and contemporary design language that echoes its heritage. The car's exterior is characterized by a long hood, a short front overhang, and a formal, upright stance on the road. Its curves are subtle yet elegant, with a focus on clean lines and precision engineering.
Inside, the Mulsanne boasts an opulent interior that redefines luxury in the automotive world. Rich leather upholstery, polished woods, and chrome accents dominate the cabin's atmosphere. The seats themselves offer exceptional comfort and support for both driver and passengers, while the center console features Bentley's signature knurled controls.
Powertrain:
The Mulsanne is powered by a massive 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that churns out 505 horsepower (377 kW) at 4,000 rpm and an impressive 1,015 lb-ft (1,380 Nm) of torque from as low as 2,000 rpm. This mighty powerplant propels the car to a top speed of 295 km/h (183 mph), making it one of the fastest luxury sedans on the market.
Performance:
On paper, the Mulsanne's acceleration is nothing short of breathtaking, with the ability to sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds and cover a quarter-mile distance in an astonishing 13.5 seconds at 145 mph (233 kph). However, real-world driving experiences often reveal that the car's true strength lies in its effortless cruising capabilities.
Driving Dynamics:
The Mulsanne rides on a bespoke air-suspension system that offers a smooth and serene ride quality, even over broken roads or challenging surfaces. The steering is light and communicative, allowing drivers to guide the massive sedan with ease through tight spaces. However, it must be noted that dynamic handling enthusiasts might find the Mulsanne somewhat detached from real-world driving experiences.
Technology and Safety:
Inside, the Mulsanne showcases an array of cutting-edge technology features, including a large infotainment screen with navigation, a high-quality audio system by Naim, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and a smartphone-integration system. Furthermore, it boasts an impressive suite of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and even automatic emergency braking.
Legacy:
Throughout its production run from 2010 to 2020, the Bentley Mulsanne Generation 1 has established itself as a benchmark for luxury sedan design and performance. It has been praised for its elegant lines, rich interior environment, and exceptional power delivery, setting it apart in the exclusive world of high-end motoring.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8
- Power: 505 horsepower (377 kW) at 4,000 rpm
- Torque: 1,015 lb-ft (1,380 Nm) from as low as 2,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic with paddle-shifters
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
- Dimensions:
- Length: 230.7 inches (585 cm)
- Wheelbase: 141.4 inches (359 cm)
- Height: 58.8 inches (149.5 cm)
- Width: 79.2 inches (201.3 cm)
Production Numbers and Discontinuation:
Over the course of its 10-year production run, Bentley produced approximately 7,135 Mulsanne units worldwide, with deliveries to key markets including North America, Europe, China, and Russia.
The first-generation Bentley Mulsanne was discontinued in 2020.
