Inspired by the Middle East’s pearl diving heritage, the Pearl of the Gulf was created.
Bentley’s new special-edition Bentayga SUV was inspired by pearl diving in Arabian Gulf.
The Bentayga Mulliner Pearl of the Gulf was originally commissioned by a Middle East customer. It is made by Bentley’s Mulliner coaching department. Only five examples of the high-powered and high-riding SUV are being built.
Each car will feature a unique interior to honor the pearl diving industry which has supported the region for centuries. For example, the Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus dashboard trim features a dhowboat scene that was once a familiar sight for pearl divers in the gulf. The marquetry dhow also has Mother of Pearl inlayed as an industry nod.
The seats are covered in a linen-coloured hide and have secondary trim in a gray shade called Brunel. This trim adorns both the top of dashboard and the edges of the steering wheel. The whole cabin is decorated with contrast stitching in brown and grey, as well as gold thread embroidery. The iconic Breitling clock for Bentley, which is nestled between the touchscreen’s air vents, features mother of pearl on its faces.
Because Gulf pearls are some of the most rare and valuable pearls in the world, the Pearl of the Gulf is given special secure storage. An aluminium safe stowage container with fingerprint sensor technology has been installed in the cabin. This keeps valuables secure from prying eyes as well as light-fingered valet parking personnel.
Mulliner, at Bentley’s Crewe headquarters has modified the car. However, underneath it is still a Bentayga. It retains the same styling as the original Bentley, with the same onboard technology including the panoramic roof and 21-inch alloy wheels.
The W12 engine is hidden behind the Bentley grille. It can also be found in other premium Bentaygas. The 6-liter engine produces 600 bhp and can propel the 4×4 to 60 mph in just four seconds. It also has a top speed at 187 mph (301 km/h).
Bentley has not yet disclosed the asking price of the Bentayga Mulliner Pearl the Gulf, however the five vehicles will likely be significantly more expensive than the standard model.