BENTLEY AZURE T | Bentley Unveils the Azure T at the Los Angeles Auto Show
BENTLEY AZURE T
Bentley Unveils the Azure T at the Los Angeles Auto Show
BentleyBentley will globally premiere the Azure T, a high-performance version of its top-tier four-seater convertible, the Azure, at the Los Angeles Auto Show, which runs from November 19th.
Text by Giraffe
A Special Feel Evoking the Racing Bentleys of the 1920s
The changes from the standard Azure include exterior enhancements such as newly designed bright-finished 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels (fitted with 255/40R20 Pirelli P-Zero tires), a dark-tint matrix grille, "Le Mans" lower front wing air vents, a "Flying B" bonnet mascot that retracts into the grille, and twin exhaust tailpipes. A closer look reveals further details like a billet aluminum fuel filler cap, all contributing to a sporty and distinctive finish that embodies Bentley's signature craftsmanship.
The interior comes standard with diamond-quilted seats and door trim, which were optional on the Azure. The black instrument panel is accented with spin-finished aluminum, creating a special ambiance that evokes the racing Bentleys of the 1920s.
0-100 km/h in Just 5.5 Seconds, Top Speed 288 km/h
The engine is the same all-aluminum 6.75-liter OHV V8 twin-turbo found in the saloon version, the Arnage T. It produces a maximum output of 507 ps at 4200 rpm and a peak torque of 102.0 kgm at 3200 rpm. Despite a curb weight of 2695 kg, it boasts astonishing performance figures: 0-100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 288 km/h (an improvement of 0.4 seconds and 14 km/h, respectively, over the Azure).
The transmission is a ZF 6-speed automatic with three control modes: "Drive," "Sport," and "Manual."
The suspension is a double wishbone setup at both the front and rear, combined with electronic spring control and adaptive hydraulic dampers. Additionally, a "Sport" suspension switch on the dashboard, or selecting the transmission's sport mode, allows drivers to experience Bentley's signature sporty handling for a more engaging drive.
The car comes standard with a large display head unit featuring an SD card slot instead of a CD player. An optional Naim for Bentley premium audio system, jointly developed by Bentley and the renowned British audio manufacturer Naim Audio, is also available. It includes 10 speakers, a dual-channel subwoofer, a 1100W amplifier, and eight DSP modes.
Bentley Motors Japan
http://www.bentleymotors.jp/
BRAND HISTORY
"I want to build cars that offer the best speed and value in their class." These are the words of Walter Owen Bentley, the founder of BENTLEY MOTORS, affectionately known as "W.O."
W.O., who gained engineering experience from a young age, initially worked not with cars but with steam locomotives. During his time off, he participated in motorcycle races, which turned his interest towards engines. After retiring, he began developing racing engines in earnest after World War I.
In the 1920s, he competed in races both in Britain and abroad. Notably, the "Bentley Boys" achieved five victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans between 1924 and 1930, establishing the marque's reputation. However, the company faced financial difficulties and was acquired by Rolls-Royce in 1931, barely managing to preserve its name.
Rolls-Royce's ownership continued for the next 67 years, but a turning point arrived in 1998. Volkswagen acquired the Bentley name and the Crewe factory in the UK. This allowed Bentley to chart a course separate from Rolls-Royce, and through the introduction of new models like the "Continental GT," "Continental Flying Spur," and "Continental GTC," it successfully re-established itself in the luxury car market. Furthermore, in 2003, Bentley secured its sixth Le Mans victory, the first in 73 years.

