2019 Bentley Mulsanne Review: Magic Carpet Ride
2019 sees the Bentley brand celebrate 100 years of existence, and a special version of its new Mulsanne was released as a W.O. Edition to commemorate the milestone with special badges and adornments. However, this was a special order offered to select customers, so how is the "regular" Mulsanne? Well, considering that it features a 506-horsepower 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 that sends 752 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, and is available in an extended wheelbase configuration, we'd say it looks like a fast and uber-luxurious offering, fitting as a flagship sedan for the British marque. With an eight-speed automatic gearbox and self-leveling air suspension, it ought to be a phenomenal cruiser, too. Fighting rivals like the Rolls-Royce Ghost and Phantom, the $300,000 Mulsanne is priced like a beautiful house. So in 100 years of building exquisite automobiles, what has Bentley learned about luxury? Let's find out.
What's the Price of the 2019 Bentley Mulsanne?
The 6.75-liter Bentley Mulsanne starts at $304,670 before Bentley's $2,725 destination charge, the gas-guzzler tax. and other charges. The Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase model starts from $361,500 before additional charges, and with all available options like the upgraded audio system, airline-style rear seats, 21-inch wheels, bespoke city umbrellas, and refrigerated bottle chiller fitted, the final price will easily exceed $400,000.
2019 Mulsanne Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
219.5 in | 128.6 in | 59.9 in | 75.8 in | 63.2 in | 65.0 in | 5,919.0 lbs |
2019 Mulsanne Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
The Mulsanne's chassis has been carefully engineered to be as supple and absorbent over bumps as possible, allowing the outside world to intrude ever so slightly, but only over the biggest of road imperfections. With such a focus on comfort, driving dynamics ought to be completely disregarded, but Bentley has its roots in racing, and the Mulsanne can tackle a corner fairly enthusiastically, the adjustable air suspension working hard to ensure that minimal body roll is experienced. That said, it will never be as composed or as lithe around corners as a BMW 7 Series or a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and when compared to cars like these, body roll is actually quite excessive. Despite its rear-wheel-drive layout, the Mulsanne doesn't really tolerate hooliganism, even when you put your foot flat from a standstill. Everything about the stability control has been tuned to ensure a luxurious ride, no matter how you drive. In terms of braking, a car that weighs around 6,000 lbs needs strong stopping power and the Mulsanne delivers, with smooth, predictable stops every time. Steering is sufficiently weighted too, allowing lane changes and cornering maneuvers to be executed with grace. As good as the car is, the Rolls-Royce Phantom's engineers have created an even more comfortable car to be driven in, and those seeking ultimate luxury and insulation from the road would be better off in one of these.
2019 Mulsanne Interior
2019 Mulsanne Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
---|---|---|---|---|
3 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / Unlimited Miles |
Verdict: Is the 2019 Bentley Mulsanne A Good car?
The 2019 Mulsanne will satisfy almost all those with deep pockets who are looking for supreme luxury and comfort in a package that is also capable of strong acceleration, and the option of full customization of almost every detail. With the Extended Wheelbase model, you can even stretch out as you would in a reclining Business Class airline seat. However, the trunk is a little small, and body roll can get out of hand through the most spirited of cornering maneuvers. At a base price of $304,670 before destination charges and options, the Bentley is considerably cheaper than the Rolls-Royce Phantom - but, the Rolls does provide a greater sense of occasion and makes occupants feel truly special. If you don't like the BMW-owned Roller for some reason, the Bentley should be satisfactory, but for anyone else, the Phantom is the ultimate and has been for years. Money no object, we'd skip over the Mulsanne.
What Bentley Mulsanne Model Should I Buy?
For ultimate comfort and luxury, we would go straight for the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase. In this spec, an additional 9.8 inches of legroom are added, as well as electrically-operated rear curtain blinds. We'd spec the Comfort Specification package with its airline-style reclining seats that are both heated and ventilated and feature a massage function and extended leg rests. The Entertainment Specification package is also worth considering, adding upgraded audio and dual 10.4-inch retractable tablets. All in, this model will cost close to $400,000 but offers supreme luxury and style for the driven.
2019 Bentley Mulsanne Comparisons
2019 Bentley Mulsanne vs Rolls-Royce Ghost
The Bentley Mulsanne is touted as the brand's flagship luxury sedan, and as such is the most luxurious and lavishly appointed vehicle in their lineup. When compared to the best that Rolls-Royce has to offer, however, the Bentley falls behind in terms of power (the Phantom has 563 hp compared to the Mulsanne's 505), luxury, and comfort. The Phantom road-scanning camera pre-adjusts the air suspension system to completely isolate occupants from any imperfections, something the Bentley doesn't offer. The Rolls also offers additional features like cigar humidors, a starlight headliner, and anything you can think of, for a price. For true customization and opulence, the Bentley is not in the same league as the Phantom, and although the Rolls is more expensive, starting at $450,000 compared to the Mulsanne's base price of $304,670, true luxury is priceless. Money no object, the Phantom is the one to have.
2019 Bentley Mulsanne vs Bentley Flying Spur
Both luxury limo-like uber sedans, the Mulsanne can be compared to the smaller Flying Spur, as a number of features are shared, including optional individual rear seats, a bottle chiller, and numerous color and finish options. The Flying Spur is the more powerful of the two, available with an optional 626 hp W12 engine. Even in base form, the Flying Spur is not far off with just five horsepower less than the Mulsanne's 505 hp. It's also lighter and therefore more dynamic, and with S versions available, becomes more driver-focused. However, the extravagance of the Mulsanne's Extended Wheelbase model can't be matched by the Flying Spur. With extended leg rests, privacy blinds, and better rear-seat entertainment options, the Mulsanne is certainly the better car for those who like being driven. If you prefer getting behind the wheel yourself on the odd occasion, the Flying Spur is the better choice.