What is the Asymmetric Fade?
Imagine a car that is one colour on the driver's side and gradually blends into a completely different, darker shade on the passenger's side. That's the essence of the new 'Design Theme by Mulliner' making its debut on the Bentley Supersports at Goodwood.
This isn't a simple two-tone paint job. It's a complex, side-to-side gradient that flows across the car's width, a first for the luxury automaker. The launch vehicle showcases a stunning Dragon Red that seamlessly transitions into a deep Black Crystal, accentuated by an off-centre stripe. The effect is designed to emphasise the driver-focused nature of the car, with the brighter, bolder colour defining the driver's side. The interior mirrors this concept, with different colours and trims for the driver and passenger seats, creating a truly asymmetric, bespoke environment.
The Art of Bespoke Craftsmanship
This striking finish is far more than just a clever idea; it's a testament to the incredible skill of Bentley's in-house bespoke division, Mulliner. While Mulliner has offered front-to-rear 'Ombré' fades before, this side-to-side application presents a new level of complexity. Reports indicate that creating these gradient effects is an intensely manual process, with similar Ombré paint jobs requiring two technicians a remarkable 56 hours to complete by hand. This meticulous, labour-intensive process underscores the very definition of modern luxury. It's not about mass production; it's about human artistry and the pursuit of a flawless, hand-painted finish that machines cannot replicate.
A Statement in the Luxury Market
In the ultra-competitive high-end automotive world, standing out is everything. This asymmetric fade is a strategic move for Bentley, solidifying Mulliner's position as a leader in personalisation. With over 70% of Bentley customers now opting for some level of Mulliner content, expanding these bespoke options is a core part of the business strategy. These unique finishes do more than just look good; they significantly increase the value and exclusivity of each vehicle, driving profitability. By offering something as bold and technically demanding as a side-to-side fade, Bentley is making a clear statement to rivals, demonstrating a commitment to coachbuilding artistry that goes beyond a standard options list.
The Goodwood Buzz
Goodwood is the perfect stage for such a debut. It’s an event where discerning enthusiasts and collectors gather, and where a detail like this won't go unnoticed. For 2026, Bentley has its largest-ever presence at the festival, showcasing more than 35 cars, including the UK dynamic debut of the new Supersports. Amidst the Hillclimb runs and displays of historic models, the asymmetric fade provides a specific, tangible point of discussion. It serves as a physical representation of the brand's blend of performance and handcrafted luxury. While a new high-performance hybrid powertrain offers impressive stats, it's often a visual innovation like this—something you can see and appreciate up close—that truly captures the imagination and becomes a major talking point at an event like Goodwood.
