12:12 AM
As it did with the Arnage, Bentley will add a more potent T variant to the Azure range, with a debut at the Los Angeles auto show this month.
The Azure T shares the same 6.8-liter twin-turbo V8 and six-speed ZF automatic transmission found in the Arnage T and the recently announced Arnage Final Series. Power is rated at 500 hp and 732 lb-ft of torque, for an increase of 50 hp and 93 lb-ft over the regular Azure.
The Azure T's extra power results in a faster 0-to-60 mph time (5.2 seconds versus 5.6 seconds) and a higher top speed (179 mph versus 171 mph) when compared with the base model.
Chassis and suspension components are carryover from the normal Azure with double wishbones, coil springs and adaptive electro-hydraulic shock absorbers. Bentley also will offer an optional carbon/silicon carbide brake upgrade with eight-piston calipers and cross-drilled discs for fade-free brake performance.
Exclusive exterior changes include standard 20-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels, a retractable hood ornament, dark-tinted front grilles, Le Mans lower front wing air vents and a "jewel" billet aluminum fuel cap.
Quilted seats are a design signature in the Bentley Azure T.
Quilted seats are a design signature in the Bentley Azure T.
The interior boasts standard diamond quilting on the seats and door panels, aluminum instrument fascia with black faces, an iPod/USB interface and an upgraded audio head unit. A Naim premium audio system with 10-speakers, a 1,100-watt amplifier and a subwoofer are optional.
The Azure T will go on sale in the fall of 2009 as a 2010 model. Pricing has not been announced, but expect it to start at about $350,000.
