Bentley has long been a symbol of luxury and exclusivity in the automotive world, and its Mulliner division takes that ethos to another level. The customization process offered by Mulliner is not just about picking options from a catalog—it’s a deeply personal experience that allows clients to create a car that truly reflects their tastes and preferences. Recently, Bentley provided an inside look at this bespoke experience by inviting us to design our dream car—a 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed—and promising to bring it to life.
The session began with Bentley representatives arriving on-site, armed with an array of tools to facilitate the customization process. They brought cases filled with color swatches, leather samples, veneer options, and other materials that highlighted the sheer breadth of choices available. This was no ordinary car-building experience. Instead of relying on an online tool, the session involved direct consultation with a Mulliner bespoke design expert who guided every decision with expertise and insight.
The first step was selecting the exterior color, a decision that set the tone for the entire customization. With Bentley offering more than 101 exterior colors as a baseline, along with bespoke paint-matching options, the possibilities felt endless. After much deliberation, the choice landed on Tanzanite Purple, a deep and luxurious hue that was complemented by black-painted wheels, grille, and other exterior accents. This combination gave the car a sleek yet opulent presence.
The interior proved to be an even more intricate challenge. Bentley’s options for leather colors, stitching, and veneers allowed for billions of potential combinations. Initially, a monochromatic purple-on-purple theme was considered but quickly dismissed as overwhelming. After several iterations, the design evolved into a more balanced aesthetic. The final choice featured a Pink Amethyst exterior paired with a Camel (tan) leather interior, accented with Beluga (black) detailing and Orchid pink highlights. Open-Pore Olive Ash veneer was chosen for its light and airy feel, complementing the beachy vibe of the overall design.
The attention to detail in the customization process was staggering. Everything from the color of the stitching on the seats to the material of the steering wheel was up for discussion. For instance, the steering wheel featured a unique combination of Orchid pink and Beluga leather, while the gear lever received a similar treatment. Even the treadplates and seat emblems were personalized to align with the car’s theme. This level of detail underscored Bentley’s commitment to making each vehicle a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
The entire process took nearly two hours, and it was clear that such a high level of customization could easily consume an entire day. Despite the time invested, the result was a car that felt unique and personal. The Mulliner team’s expertise ensured that each choice complemented the others, resulting in a cohesive and stunning design. The finished renderings showcased a vehicle that was both luxurious and distinctive, perfectly embodying the spirit of bespoke craftsmanship.
While the price tag for such an endeavor is undoubtedly steep, it reflects the exclusivity and craftsmanship that go into creating a car of this caliber. The base price for the 2025 Bentley Continental GT Speed is $353,595, but the bespoke options added $48,345, bringing the total to $401,640. This figure underscores the level of detail and effort involved in bringing a customer’s vision to life.
Bentley’s promise to build and deliver the customized car as a media vehicle added a layer of excitement to the experience. The finished car is expected to be completed and ready for a test drive within six to eight months. After serving its purpose as a media vehicle, it will likely find its way to a buyer who will undoubtedly appreciate its unique design and craftsmanship.
The experience highlighted the artistry and precision of Bentley’s Mulliner division. More than just a car, the final product represents a fusion of luxury, individuality, and engineering excellence. For those who can afford it, the Mulliner experience offers a rare opportunity to create a vehicle that is truly their own, a reflection of personal style and taste that goes beyond the standard definitions of luxury.
