Paris 2014: Bentley unveils Mulsanne Speed sedan

Bentley launched its new flagship model at the Paris Motor Show, the Mulsanne Speed. Bentley calls it the fastest ultra-luxury driving experience. The Mulsanne Speed, named after the famous high-speed straight on the Circuit de la Sarthe, is powered by a traditional-sounding engine, the 6 ¾ liter V8. With twin turbos, it generates 537ps and 1100Nm. That’s enough to propel it to 100 kph in 4.9 seconds, on to a top speed of 305 kph. Fuel efficiency, normally not a primary concern of a Bentley owner, still has its benefits. With the 13% gain in fuel efficiency comes 80 km extra range. The Mulsanne Speed gets darker accents to its exterior trim for subtle differentiation.

Joining the new car on the Bentley stand were the Flying Spur four-door sedan, the Continental GT V8 S and GT Speed coupes. The ‘normal’ Mulsanne, with a 512 ps and 1020 Nm engine was also on display. The Flying Spur is no slouch, either, with a 322 kph top speed courtesy of its 625 ps, 800 Nm twin-turbo W12 engine. It carries a full boatload of luxury features, including 10″ LCD screens for the rear seats, wireless headphones, full Wi-Fi connectivity and 1100 watt Naim sound system.