Bentley Mulsanne offered with new Mulliner Driving Specification package

Bentley introduced a new package for the Mulsanne. It's too fancy to be called a trim line, but those who want a sportier Mulsanne sedan will be able check the box marked Mulliner Driving Specification.

The package adds unique 21-inch wheels, Flying B vents and a diamond-quilted, leather-trimmed interior. It also gets a sport-tuned suspension, which is controlled by a knob in the cabin.

The upgraded Mulsanne will get Bentley's Dynamic Drive Control with a new sport setting. The new programming provides extra grip, more body control and increased steering precision. Bentley says this all comes without compromising the ride.

Power continues to come from the company's 6.75-liter V8 making 505 hp. The 0-to-60-mph sprint takes 5.1 seconds for the three-ton beast, on its way to a top speed of 184 mph.

Outside, the Mulliner Driving Specification gets 21-inch, race-inspired aluminum wheels with titanium fasteners, bright finish and Z-rated tires. The rims are offered in both painted and polished finishes, with or without Bentley's self-leveling wheel badges. Elsewhere on the exterior, the front quarter-panels get vents that emulate Bentley's Flying B emblem.

Unique features inside the Mulsanne include accelerator and brake pedals trimmed in drilled alloy, with individually polished raised grips. Mulliner treadplate plaques are applied to the vertical surface of the front doorsills. And in a new process, there is diamond quilting on the seats with nonperforated tram lines in between. Besides looking geometrically perfect, it allows for Bentley's optional seat-ventilation system.

As always, customers of the Mulliner Driving Specification have the option to choose paint from a palette of 100 colors, as well as a choice of quality veneers and a selection of 22 leather hides.

In conjunction with the new trim, Bentley is offering a luxury bottle cooler and rear-cabin storage area with space for two bottles of champagne. At the touch of a button, frosted glass slides open to reveal three hand-cut, lead-crystal champagne flutes that echo the design of the Mulliner rims. The company is also adding the option of a tilt-opening glass sunroof to let air and sunlight in. An Alcantara blind covers the glass when days get too hot.

By Jake Lingeman