are reminiscent of early Bentleys, while the whole dashboard and console design is a subtle reminder of the Bentley wings motif.
Naturally, sitting in the rear of the Bentley Mulsanne is the best place to comprehend the sheer graft that goes into creating the cabin. Amongst all the glossy wood and lavish leather, you also start to appreciate how the latest in-car technologies have been cleverly and unobtrusively placed within the lush interior. A multimedia system drives satellite navigation, audio/video, personal data, telephone and Bluetooth® connectivity. Te upper dashboard houses a multimedia screen, positioned discreetly behind an electrically operated veneered flap, while below sits a chic, leather-lined media player stowage drawer with connectors for iPod, USB and much more.
Whether sitting in the back or behind the wheel of the Mulsanne, you cannot ignore the pure punch of energy unleashed from the Bentley’s 6¾-litre V8 engine. It guarantees huge power at low revs and self- possessed performance, while maintaining high levels of finesse at any speed. Te powerplant, mated to an eight-speed
automatic transmission with steering-wheel mounted paddles, delivers 505 bhp - and vast torque (752 lb ft) is delivered at 1750 rpm. Tis spectacular pulling power from just above idle and right across the rev range ensures that with a simple tap of the accelerator you’re instantaneously rewarded with that distinctive, sonorous, V8 burble as well as exceptional acceleration.
Quite simply, the Mulsanne is as near to motoring perfection as you can get. Te only thing that lets it down is a smaller than expected boot but, that aside, very few car manufacturers can offer such a concoction of performance and refinement in a single vehicle. So, if you can afford it – why wouldn’t you want to experience Bentley’s top model? Life’s too short to keep it all in the bank.
PROS ‘N’ CONS Luxurious √ Powerful √ Iconic √ Good looking √ Small boot X
FAST FACTS Max speed: 184 mph 0-62 mph: 5.3 secs Combined mpg: 16.7 Engine: 6752 cc Twin-turbocharged V8 petrol Max. power (bhp): 505 at 4200 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 752 at 1750 rpm CO2: 393 g/km Price: £225,900 on the road