Bentley to Offer a Trio of Mulsanne Models

Volkswagen AG’s Bentley unit will market three versions of its redesigned Mulsanne flagship car: a base sedan along with high-performance and long-wheelbase variants.

The carmaker will publicly unveil the trio next week at the Geneva auto show. Sales are due to launch soon thereafter.

All three models get updated styling and improved electronics. Design changes include a new front end, featuring a wide grille inspired by 1930s-era Bentleys. The car also has a new taillight design and rear bumper.

The Bentley Speed performance model is distinguished by a dark exterior chrome finish, tinted lights, a sport exhaust, 21-inch wheels and unique badging. The stretched model adds an extra 10 inches to the wheelbase and provides a like amount of additional rear-seat legroom. Airline-type reclining leg rests also are provided, while a folding table and electric curtains are optional.

Among the interior highlights are a new 8-inch center display with a haptic touchscreen and a pair of removable10.2-inch Android tablets, which allow rear-seat passengers to connect to the internet via a 4G wi-fi connection. Other goodies include high-beam assist and blind-spot warning.

The base and long-wheelbase Mulsanne cars will be powered by Bentley's 6.75-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine that produces 505 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque. In the Mulsanne Speed, the engine will be tuned to make 530 hp and 811 lb-ft of torque. Special transmission, steering and suspension settings also will be included in the performance package.