REVITALISED Bentley is poised to take a dramatic drive upmarket with its next new model.
Due to go into production in spring, the next-generation Mulsanne will cost upwards of £220,000 by the time deliveries begin in summer.
Despite that, demand for the new flagship model could well outstrip supply from the Crewe factory. After more than 1,000 private preview events in Europe and the US, expression of interest has overtaken production targets.
'The car is a pure expression of Bentley design and craftsmanship and has struck a chord with enthusiasts. We have been encouraged by positive comments - particularly from our American customers,' said sales and marketing chief Stuart McCullough.
Bentley is promising a 'world of infinite choice' with the new car, which has a re-engineered V8 engine feturing cylinder de-activation and variable cam phasing for lower fuel consumption and tailpipe emission figures.
On offer is a choice of 114 paint colours, 21 carpet colours, nine wood veneers and 24 interior leather hides, all tanned using a decades-old process to ensure the car never loses its scent.
With more standard leather and wood veneer than any other Bentley in the modern era, the Mulsanne will take nine weeks to build.
According to the Volkswagen-owned firm, leading edge features include iPod and mp3 connectivity, Bluetooth and a SIM card reader, as well as a 3G MMI system, and customers can choose the world's most powerful audio system in a production vehicle, offering 2,200-watt sound via 20 channels.
Pricing for international markets are yet to be announced, as are details of an extensive range of additional options for the car.
'Company founder W.O. Bentley had a vision of building 'a good car, a fast car, the best in its class.' Ninety years later, this new flagship will position Bentley at the pinnacle of the premium segment with respect to quality, authenticity and supremacy,' said a spokesman.