Beijing show: Bentley debuts Mulsanne First Edition

BENTLEY'S recently updated flagship Mulsanne range will get a limited-edition halo variant ahead of its release later this year, with the unveiling of the bespoke First Edition at the Beijing motor show today.

Equipped with a number of additional interior features over the regular Mulsanne, the First Edition will be produced as part of a limited run of only 50 examples worldwide.

It will be made available across the three-variant Mulsanne range, which includes the standard Mulsanne, performance-focused Mulsanne Speed and stretched Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase (EWB).

Features that set the First Edition apart from regular models include a sterling silver vanity kit that includes a mirror, hair brush and comb, that has been inlaid into the back of the front seat.

The cabin is littered with First Edition motifs, including on the rear seat fold-out tables, tread plates and embroidered into the seats, alongside images of the Union Jack.

A specially engraved 'Flying B' bonnet ornament is featured on the First Edition, and buyers with a penchant for sparkling wine can order an optional champagne cooler which sits between the rear seats.

Arguably the most opulent feature in the First Edition Mulsanne is the wood detailing. The EWB variant comes with special Fulbeck veneer sourced from a 350-year-old English walnut tree, which fetched an undisclosed record price at auction.

Other Mulsanne First Editions come with an ash wood veneer.

Pricing and allocation for Australia is yet to be determined, however with just 50 produced worldwide and an undoubtedly intimidating pricetag, securing one will be a tough ask for Australian customers.

It has been revealed that the Mulsanne will keep the monster 6.8-litre V8 from the outgoing model, which produces 377kW/1020Nm, and 395kW/1100Nm for the Speed.

Bentley's Flying Spur V8 S made its Chinese debut at the Beijing show, which will sit in the Flying Spur line-up between the base V8 and stonking W12 flagship.

The V8 S gets a performance bump of 15kW/20Nm over the standard V8 for a combined output of 388kW/680Nm, and can dash from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds.

Pricing has not yet been released, however Australian customers can expect it to be priced between the $378,197 V8 and the $423,160 W12.

Bentley will also show a one-off version of Bentley's new Bentayga SUV, called the Bentayga by Mulliner.

Named after the British marque's custom coach-building division, the Bentayga by Mulliner features a veneer set situated on the passenger-side dash that depicts the mountain range that inspired the Bentagya's name.

Bentley's craftsmen used over 30 individual pieces made from 10 different veneers to create the depiction of mountain scenery.