Hey car enthusiasts and luxury seekers! When it comes to buying a new car in India, especially at the premium end, we all think about a few crucial things. Is it within budget? What about safety? How much will monthly maintenance cost? Does it have the latest features, and how good is the company’s service network? Today, we are diving deep into a car that redefines luxury and performance, aiming to answer these questions for the discerning Indian buyer: the magnificent Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8.

This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement. The Mulliner V8 takes the already impressive Flying Spur and elevates it to an art form, offering bespoke craftsmanship and an exhilarating drive. Let’s explore what makes this luxury sedan a dream machine.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 4.0-litre Twin-Turbocharged V8
• Maximum Power: 550 PS (542 bhp)
• Maximum Torque: 770 Nm
• Transmission: 8-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic
• 0-100 km/h: 4.1 seconds
• Top Speed: 318 km/h

Design Overview

Exterior

The Flying Spur Mulliner V8 stands out with its exquisite detailing. Think of the iconic Mulliner Double Diamond front grille and lower grille finished in bright chrome, exclusive Mulliner badging, and stunning 22-inch Mulliner polished alloy wheels. The jewelled fuel and oil filler caps add a touch of sparkle. It boasts a majestic, imposing presence, perfectly blending traditional Bentley elegance with modern sophistication.

Interior

Step inside, and you enter a realm of unparalleled luxury. The Mulliner cabin offers unique ‘Diamond in Diamond’ quilting on the seats, doors, and rear quarter panels, with contrast stitching that showcases the intricate craftsmanship. Illuminated Mulliner tread plates welcome you, while the grand veneer panels, available in a vast selection of exquisite wood and technical finishes, define bespoke luxury. The digital instrument cluster and the Bentley Rotating Display add a touch of modern tech seamlessly.

Key Features

• Infotainment: 12.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen Bentley Rotating Display, offering three different fascia options (screen, analogue dials, or plain veneer)
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Sunroof: Full-length panoramic glass sunroof
• Cameras: 360-degree top-view camera system
• Charging: Wireless phone charging pads for front and rear occupants
• Climate Control: Four-zone automatic climate control system
• Comfort Features: Heated, ventilated, and massage seats with multiple settings for all passengers
• Advanced Tech: Night Vision camera, Head-Up Display, electrically deployed Flying B mascot
• Sound System: Naim for Bentley premium audio system (optional)

What is the Ground Clearance of Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8?

The Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8 features an adaptive air suspension system, which allows its ground clearance to vary. Typically, in normal ride height, it is around 130-140 mm. This can be adjusted for different driving conditions, providing a smooth and comfortable ride even on varied Indian roads.

What is the Boot Space of Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8?

The Flying Spur Mulliner V8 offers a generous boot space of approximately 420 litres, which is ample for your luxury luggage on long drives or weekend getaways.

What are the Dimensions of Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8?

• Length: 5316 mm
• Width: 1978 mm (2220 mm including mirrors)
• Height: 1484 mm
• Wheelbase: 3194 mm

Powertrain Options

While our focus today is on the potent V8 engine, the Bentley Flying Spur is also available with other impressive powertrain options globally. These include the mighty W12 engine for ultimate performance and a Hybrid variant for those seeking enhanced efficiency and lower emissions. Each option offers a distinct driving experience tailored to different preferences.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in the Flying Spur Mulliner V8, equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety technologies:

• Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Assist
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Traffic Jam Assist
• Predictive Chassis Technology
• Night Vision

NCAP Rating Table

It is important to note that ultra-luxury, low-volume vehicles like the Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8 are typically not subjected to independent crash tests by organisations like Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP. These manufacturers conduct extensive internal crash testing to ensure the highest safety standards, often exceeding regulatory requirements, and focus heavily on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) for accident prevention.

Rivals of Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8

In the rarefied air of ultra-luxury sedans, the Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8 competes with some of the world’s most prestigious vehicles:

• Rolls-Royce Ghost
• Mercedes-Maybach S-Class
• High-end versions of the Porsche Panamera
• Potentially the Aston Martin DBX (as a luxury performance alternative)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros

• Unmatched Luxury & Craftsmanship: The Mulliner specific details and bespoke options create an interior truly second to none.
• Exhilarating Performance: The V8 engine offers a perfect blend of power and refinement, making it genuinely engaging to drive.
• Supreme Comfort: Air suspension ensures a magic carpet ride, absorbing road imperfections with ease, crucial for Indian conditions.
• Advanced Technology: Cutting-edge infotainment and driver assistance systems enhance both convenience and safety.
• Exclusivity & Status: Owning a Mulliner variant is a strong statement of discerning taste and success.

Cons

• Very High Price Tag: As expected, it comes with an ultra-premium price that places it out of reach for most.
• Significant Running Costs: Fuel efficiency for a powerful V8, coupled with high maintenance and service charges, can be substantial.
• Large Dimensions: Its sheer size can be a challenge to navigate and park in congested Indian city traffic.
• Limited Service Network: While Bentley offers excellent service, its network is naturally limited compared to mass-market brands in India.

Conclusion

The Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner V8 is more than just a car; it is a masterpiece of automotive engineering and bespoke luxury. For the prospective buyer in India who values unparalleled craftsmanship, exhilarating performance, and an unmatched sense of occasion, this car stands as an ultimate expression. While the budget and running costs are significant considerations, for those who can afford it, the Mulliner V8 offers an exclusive experience that few other vehicles can rival. It is a car that doesn't just transport you; it elevates every journey into an unforgettable event. If you are looking for the pinnacle of luxury sedans, the Flying Spur Mulliner V8 deserves a serious look.