The new Bentley Mulliner Batur gives us a glimpse into the future of the company’s electric vehicles, but inside it’s still an iconic engine that’s more powerful than ever. Coachbuilder Mulliner is responsible for building many of Bentley’s all-time greats. Among these bespoke automotive marvels, the Bentley Mulliner Bacalar makes its 2020 debut. From sheer interior craftsmanship to bespoke panels and jaw-dropping price tags, few exude so much luxury and exclusivity like the ultra-rare Bacalar. However, for those who missed out on getting one of just 12 Bacalars of people, they may get another chance at a successor.
Now, the Mulliner name goes back to the 18th century, and many luxury coach designs have been proposed since then (via Top Gear). Of course, the same goes for Bentley Mulliner’s latest creation, the Batur, which will be officially unveiled at Monterey Car Week 2022 on August 20. In a press release, Bentley announced that the Mulliner Batur represents “a whole new design language.” It takes its name from an 88-meter-deep crater lake in Indonesia. That said, the Bacalar’s successor is just as provocative as its namesake model, and not just because Bentley promises it’s “infinitely customizable.”
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Bentley claims the Batur’s design “will shape the future of its range of electric vehicles, which will debut in 2025”. However, the British automaker says the Batur also incorporates Bentley’s classic design cues “reinterpreted into new, cleaner forms.” The return of the Bentley W12 engine complements this contrasting fusion of iconic and cutting-edge technology, This could also be its last engine. Bacalar’s W12 engine is considered the most sophisticated in its class. On the other hand, the Batur is said to produce “more power and torque than ever before,” and it will be paired with Bentley’s “most advanced chassis ever.”
Bentley promises buyers the ability to customize the car’s finish on “every surface and component”, including options from sustainable materials to 3D printed 18K gold. With prices starting at around $2 million for the Bentley Mulliner Bacalar, it is expected to save at least a few million dollars for its successor. Considering there are “almost limitless ways” Bentley can build a truly bespoke Batur for its buyers, it’s probably worth more. For those who can afford a brand, easily adding more than $100,000 worth of extra options on top of its already high sticker price sounds about right.
