Bentley Mulsanne 2017 Review

The luxury sedan market has always been the core choice for the top-tier consumer group, and the extended wheelbase version represents the ultimate embodiment of the "luxury experience" in this segment. The 2017 Bentley Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase is precisely crafted for this purpose. Priced at RM 1,433,800, its wheelbase has been extended to 3,516 mm (compared to the standard version's 3,266 mm), focusing entirely on creating a "CEO-level" space and comfort in the rear seats. The main purpose of this test drive is to verify whether this extended model can truly enhance the rear passenger experience to an unparalleled level while preserving the luxury essence of the Bentley brand.

From the exterior, the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase continues the classic cigar-shaped bodylines of the standard version, displaying an overall dignified and elegant style. The rectangular front grille, paired with Bentley's iconic round headlights, provides high recognition; the "Flying B" hood ornament automatically rises when the car is unlocked, adding a full sense of ceremony. The side profile of the car features the most noticeable characteristic of the extended version: an elongated line between the rear doors and rear fenders that transitions naturally, without disrupting the harmonious proportions of the overall design. The 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, coupled with thick tires, maintain a sense of luxury while ensuring stability at high speeds. At the rear, the combination of rectangular taillights and chrome trim is simple yet atmospheric, and the dual round exhaust pipes subtly hint at the power reserves of its V8 engine.

Sitting inside, the interior quality of the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase is virtually impeccable. The dashboard features large areas of wood veneer (choices include walnut or eucalyptus) and leather wrapping, with every stitch finished precisely and meticulously. Every touchpoint is made of soft materials. The front seats support multi-directional electric adjustment and heating functions, balancing both wrapping and support. The steering wheel combines leather and wood, offering a thick and refined grip. The layout of the center console leans toward a traditional luxury car design, with numerous physical buttons. However, the tactile feedback and quality of the buttons are top-notch. The 8-inch touchscreen may not be particularly large, but it operates smoothly and supports Bluetooth connectivity and navigation functions. Compared to competitors that emphasize high-tech features, this infotainment system is less focused on "being flashy" and is more about "practicality."

Space is the primary advantage of the extended wheelbase version. When the front seats are adjusted to a comfortable position for a 180 cm tall driver, the rear legroom reaches an impressive distance of over one meter—rear passengers can easily stretch their legs or even cross them. The rear features two independent "airline seats" that support electric adjustment (including backrest angle and leg rest extension), heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The center armrest houses a control screen that allows adjustments to the seats, air conditioning, and multimedia system. In terms of storage, the front center armrest box is spacious enough to accommodate items such as phones and wallets. The rear door pockets and center armrest box also meet daily storage needs. Notably, the rear is equipped with independent air conditioning vents, a 220V power outlet, and USB charging ports, demonstrating thorough attention to detail.

In terms of performance, the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase is equipped with a 6.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering a maximum power of 513 PS and a peak torque of 1,020 N·m (official data does not specify the RPM, but in actual experience, the peak torque can be felt at low RPM). It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. At startup, the throttle response is not overly aggressive, but with a gentle press of the pedal, the massive body moves forward smoothly. During mid to high-speed acceleration, pressing the accelerator delivers a continuous surge of power, with hardly any need to anticipate when overtaking. The shifting logic of the transmission leans towards smoothness, and there is no obvious sense of jerkiness. However, with a weight of 2,685 kg, the driving experience does not feel "aggressive," but rather showcases the calm and composed characteristics of a luxury car.

The handling and chassis performance are fully geared towards comfort. The steering wheel has a heavier steering feel and a slight slack, which aligns with its positioning as an "executive sedan"—there's no need for frequent steering adjustments while driving, and it remains very stable during high-speed cruising. The suspension system uses air suspension and supports firmness adjustments; in standard mode, it filters out minor road bumps exceptionally well, and even when encountering speed bumps or uneven roads, the vehicle body does not bounce significantly. When cornering, due to its extended body and higher center of gravity, body roll is more pronounced than a sports sedan, but the support of the suspension still ensures the stability of the body, without giving a "floating" sensation.

As for fuel consumption, as a 6.8L V8 model, its official combined fuel consumption is 15L/100km. During actual test drives, the urban consumption is about 18-20L/100km, while highway cruising can lower it to 12-14L/100km, meeting expectations for its displacement and weight—fuel consumption is not a primary consideration for its target audience.

The details of ride comfort are equally well-executed. At high speeds, wind and tire noise are extremely well controlled, and even when the car exceeds speeds of 120km/h, there's no need to raise your voice for conversation inside the cabin. Engine noise is almost entirely isolated during normal driving, only emitting a deep V8 roar when pressing hard on the accelerator. The comfort of the front seats is self-evident, while the rear "airline seats" are the highlight—the massage function offers multiple modes, effectively alleviating fatigue during long trips; when the leg rest is raised, passengers can lie fully flat, with an experience comparable to a first-class cabin.

Overall, the core strengths of the 2017 Bentley Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase are very clear: rear-row "presidential-level" space and comfort, impeccable interior quality, and the supreme luxury aura associated with the Bentley brand. Compared to the standard Mulsanne, its price is about 190,000 MYR higher, but the improvement in rear-seat experience is transformative. When compared with the Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase in the same class, it offers a more advantageous price and comparable performance capabilities.

The target audience of this car is also very clear: it is not designed for "drivers," but for "passengers"—such as corporate CEOs, high-level business executives, or affluent families pursuing an ultimate rear-seat experience. If you're looking for a vehicle that can showcase status during business receptions while providing "mobile office + first-class cabin" experience for rear passengers, the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase is one of the best options in its price range.

In summary: the 2017 Bentley Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase is a top-tier luxury sedan "born for the rear seats." It doesn't pursue aggressive high-tech features but instead pushes the "texture" and "comfort" of a traditional luxury car to the extreme—especially the rear space and seating experience, which can make every passenger feel the signature "Bentley-level" prestige. For consumers who value "rear-seat experience" and "brand identity," it is definitely worth the investment.