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Bentley Mulsanne: Old-world coachwork meets modern tech (pictures)

The Bentley Mulsanne takes advantage of fine English coachwork and German electronics to offer owners a sumptuous driving experience with excellent cabin tech.

Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
Wayne Cunningham
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The flying B hood ornament, or "Mascot" in Bentley terminology, is a $3,000 option. Each one is individually crafted, with differing numbers of feathers on the wings to ensure uniqueness.
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Bentley's flagship Mulsanne shows a base price of $290,000, but given the craftsmanship you can amortize that price over the rest of your life, because it will probably outlast you.
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A massive stainless-steel grille announces the Mulsanne's arrival.
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In modern Bentley fashion, the large headlights are neatly embedded in the bodywork.
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This 6.75-liter V-8 comes with two turbochargers, giving it 505 horsepower and 752 pound-feet of torque.
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The Mulsanne has a massive presence, but does not feel all that big from behind the wheel.
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These 21-inch wheels come standard.
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The Mulsanne rides on an adjustable air suspension, with settings for sport and comfort.
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The big seats are covered in leather derived from Scandinavian bull hides, and include massage functions.
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The rear seats are very comfortable, but do not offer the same sort of rolling lounge as the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
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The cabin is made up of thick leather, wood trim, and stainless steel.
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Like many things British, the gauges turn in the wrong direction.
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This shifter works an eight-speed automatic transmission.
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The center gauges echo the Mulsanne's old-world coachwork.
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This dial changes the suspension setting.
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Modern tech shows up in the center LCD, with electronics derived from Audi.
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The Naim audio system delivers exceptional sound quality, and even includes a DSP setting for compressed digital audio sources.
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The stereo includes iPod integration.
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An optional package brings motorized tray tables equipped with iPads to the rear seats.

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