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2003 Bentley Arnage R Overview

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Khatir Soltani

2003 Bentley Arnage R - 'Budget' Bentley Much Improved

It's fairly safe to say that the current 4-door Bentley architecture, that shares much of its underpinnings with the current Rolls-Royce sedans, has a brief expected life span. Not that the car itself won't last for 50 or more years, plenty of prime examples will attest to that possibility, but the dated design and somewhat archaic engineering will soon be improved upon by new owner Volkswagen AG.

When you consider its purchasing argument seriously, without consideration for prestige, heritage or its legendary history, the Arnage is hardly as sophisticated as a current Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series or even VW's own Audi A8/S8, yet costs more than twice as much as each of the above. Sure the Bentley incorporates the best of leathers, wood and metal finished accents available, but the Mercedes, BMW and Audi flagship models do a pretty good job of spoiling occupants too. Technological advancements that are now expected in the German cars, such as DVD-based navigation, multi-zone climate control, park distance control, and state-of-the-art audio, are also now part of the Bentley Arnage R package.

That said there's an ambience inside any Bentley that can only be equaled within a similarly optioned Rolls-Royce model, and only imitated by Jaguar's elegant supper club interiors. It must be the legendary brand's hand made touch that makes up the difference. Or maybe the contrasting-color seat piping accenting its big as a parlor chair buckets? Or is it the rich, thick panels of burled walnut with maple inlay? Perhaps the elegant chrome switchgear and throwback toggles add that something extra that makes me feel like a movie star on my way to a Hollywood preview? Whichever, even the most basic Bentley feels otherworldly compared to mere plebian transportation, luxury imports included.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada