The best Bentley Mulsanne years are the 2017–2020 facelifted models and the high-performance Speed trims. Buyers must inspect 2011–2016 base models carefully due to early infotainment quirks and potential air suspension failures.
These rankings are comparative for ultra-luxury flagships. No bespoke hand-built vehicle is flawless, and long-term survival depends entirely on meticulous dealership maintenance and climate-controlled storage.
Meaningful differences exist between the standard wheelbase, Extended Wheelbase, and Speed configurations. The 2017 facelift brought crucial infotainment and styling updates that significantly improved the daily ownership experience.
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Best and Worst Bentley Mulsanne Years at a Glance
| Model Year or Range | Verdict | Main Reason | Buyer Guidance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011–2016 (Base/EWB) | Good With Inspection | Early bespoke platform, aging tech | Verify air suspension and electrical |
| 2017–2020 (Base/EWB) | Best Late-Generation Choice | Facelift refinements, final production | Demand full dealer service history |
| 2015–2020 (Speed) | Best Enthusiast Choice | 530 hp, sport-tuned chassis | Check for aggressive wear items |
Key Takeaways
- The 2017–2020 facelifted models offer the most refined ownership experience with updated technology.
- The Mulsanne Speed provides genuine enthusiast appeal with 530 horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension.
- Approach 2011–2016 base models with caution, as early infotainment systems and air shocks can be problematic.
- The 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 is robust but requires strict adherence to scheduled dealership maintenance.
- Always verify the VIN for open recalls, including the rear seat belt anchor campaign.
How We Evaluated the Bentley Mulsanne Model Years
Our analysis examines official safety recalls, manufacturer service campaigns, and ultra-luxury ownership patterns. We weigh the impact of the 2017 mid-cycle refresh and the introduction of the high-performance Speed configuration.
Consumer complaints are not confirmed defects or failure rates. A recall does not automatically make a bespoke vehicle unreliable, but complex hand-built architecture requires specialized diagnostic equipment and meticulous care.
Best Bentley Mulsanne Years
2017–2020 (Base and EWB): Best Late-Generation Choice
The 2017 facelift introduced a wider front grille, updated LED lighting, and a vastly improved infotainment system. These refinements modernized the cabin while preserving the classic 6.75-liter V8 character.
As the final iteration before production ended in 2020, these models represent the ultimate expression of the nameplate. Buyers must demand a comprehensive dealer service history to verify proper maintenance of the complex air suspension.
2015–2020 (Speed): Best Enthusiast Choice
The Mulsanne Speed transforms the stately sedan into a genuine performance machine. It features a tuned version of the twin-turbo V8 producing 530 horsepower and 811 lb-ft of torque.
The sport-tuned air suspension and darker exterior trim provide a more engaging driving experience. Ensure the previous owner maintained the specialized brakes and suspension components, as aggressive driving accelerates wear on these heavy components.
Best Year by Buyer Type
The 2018 Extended Wheelbase is the Best Overall choice for rear-seat passengers, offering maximum legroom and the refined facelift interior. The Mulsanne Speed remains the Best Enthusiast Choice for buyers who prefer to drive rather than be chauffeured.
Years to Approach Carefully
2011–2016 (Base and EWB): Good With Inspection
The early pre-facelift models established the bespoke platform but suffered from aging infotainment technology and early-build electrical gremlins. The rotating dashboard screen mechanism is known to fail, requiring expensive specialist repair.
Air suspension leaks are also common as these vehicles age. Purchase only if a specialized pre-purchase inspection confirms the air struts and compressors are in perfect working order, and verify all software updates were applied.
Worst Bentley Mulsanne Years
No model year earns a strict Avoid verdict, as the hand-built 6.75-liter V8 is fundamentally robust. However, buyers researching years to avoid should note that 2011 and 2012 examples present the highest financial risk due to deprecated early infotainment systems and the steepest depreciation curves.
Bentley Mulsanne Reliability by Generation
Single Generation (2011–2020)
Unlike the Continental GT and Flying Spur, the modern Bentley Mulsanne rides on a bespoke platform unique to the model. It does not share its underlying architecture with the VW Phaeton or Audi A8.
This standalone engineering ensures an uncompromised luxury experience but means parts sharing is limited. The 6.75-liter pushrod V8 is a modernized evolution of a classic design, offering immense low-end torque and surprising longevity when properly maintained.
Common Bentley Mulsanne Problems
Air Suspension and Steering
The complex air suspension system is the most frequent failure point on heavy luxury flagships. Air struts can develop leaks over time, causing the vehicle to sag and triggering dashboard warning lights.
Replacing all four corners is exceptionally expensive. Buyers should test the ride quality at various speeds and listen for the air compressor running excessively, which indicates a systemic leak in the pneumatic lines.
Electrical and Infotainment Faults
Early 2011–2016 models feature an older infotainment architecture that can become sluggish or unresponsive. The motorized rotating display screen is a complex mechanical component that may fail to deploy or retract correctly.
Later 2017–2020 models received significant electrical architecture upgrades that resolved most of these interface complaints. Always test every motorized vent, screen, and massaging seat function during your inspection.
Rear Seat Belt Anchors
The NHTSA issued a safety recall for 2012–2018 models regarding the rear seat belt anchors. In the event of a collision, the anchor could detach from the body structure, increasing injury risk.
Verify the VIN to ensure this critical safety campaign was completed by an authorized dealer. The repair involves reinforcing the anchor points and is essential for passenger safety.
Repair-Cost Overview
Repairing a bespoke ultra-luxury vehicle requires specialized dealership labor and exclusive parts. Routine maintenance like brake fluid flushes and tire replacements cost significantly more than mainstream luxury sedans.
Major repairs, such as replacing the air suspension struts or rebuilding the rotating dashboard mechanism, can easily exceed five figures. Always budget for an extended warranty or a dedicated repair reserve.
What to Check Before Buying a Used Bentley Mulsanne
Verify the VIN to ensure the rear seat belt anchor recall is completed. Inspect the air suspension by letting the vehicle sit overnight and checking for uneven ride height or compressor noise.
Test the rotating infotainment screen to ensure it deploys and retracts smoothly. Review the service history to confirm all scheduled dealership maintenance was performed, and arrange a specialized pre-purchase inspection.
Related Buying Guides
- Bentley Continental GT best and worst years: A grand touring coupe alternative for buyers wanting a more engaging, two-door driving experience with modern W12 or V8 powertrains.
- Bentley Bentayga best and worst years: A luxury SUV alternative for buyers needing maximum cargo versatility and all-weather capability without sacrificing bespoke craftsmanship.
- Rolls-Royce Ghost best and worst years: A direct ultra-luxury rival for buyers seeking a quieter, more isolated ride quality and a distinct bespoke V12 engine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable Bentley Mulsanne year?
The 2017–2020 facelifted models are the most refined, featuring updated electrical architectures and improved infotainment systems. However, all years require strict dealership maintenance to maintain long-term reliability and prevent expensive failures.
Did Bentley make a 2010 Mulsanne?
In the United States market, the modern Mulsanne debuted as a 2011 model year vehicle. It replaced the Arnage and remained in production through the 2020 model year before being discontinued.
Is the Bentley Mulsanne a good daily driver?
The facelifted models can serve as comfortable daily drivers, offering exceptional ride quality and modern technology. However, the sheer size, poor fuel economy, and steep depreciation make them better suited for weekend or chauffeured use.
How expensive is the Mulsanne air suspension to fix?
Replacing the complex air suspension struts on a bespoke ultra-luxury flagship is exceptionally expensive. Parts and specialized dealership labor can easily push the repair bill into the five-figure range for all four corners.
What should I look for when buying a used Mulsanne?
Prioritize examples with a flawless, documented dealer service history. Verify the air suspension holds pressure overnight, test the rotating dashboard screen, and ensure all safety recalls, including the rear seat belts, are completed.
Does the Mulsanne share parts with Volkswagen?
While the modern Mulsanne features some behind-the-scenes Volkswagen Group electrical and switchgear content, it rides on a completely bespoke platform. It does not share its core architecture with the Phaeton, Audi A8, or Flying Spur.
Which Bentley Mulsanne Year Should You Buy?
Target the 2017–2020 facelifted models for the most refined ownership experience, or the Mulsanne Speed for genuine performance appeal. The Extended Wheelbase models offer the ultimate rear-seat luxury for chauffeured buyers.
Approach 2011–2016 base models with caution, demanding specialized inspections of the air suspension and electrical systems. Always verify the VIN for open safety campaigns and insist on a comprehensive dealer service history.
