Continental GT

Make
Bentley
Segment
Coupe

The Bentley Azure was a four-seat luxury convertible built from 1995 to 2003, then again from 2006 to 2009, eventually being discontinued with no direct successor. Though the drop-top flagship remains dead and buried, the nameplate recently made a return on the new 2022 Bentley Bentayga SUV Extended Wheelbase First Edition model. As it turns out, the Azure moniker will not be Bentayga-specific, as the whole Bentley range will get a derivative with this distinction.

Buyers can now opt for the Azure specification on the Bentayga, Bentayga EWB, Flying Spur sedan, Continental GT Coupe, and Continental GT Convertible. Bentley says Azure is "more than a specification; it includes tactile and visual cues designed to reduce stress and promote wellbeing, along with driver assistance technologies for smoother, safer journeys." Don't worry, we'll explain what that actually means.

Whereas the Bentley Speed models focus on ultimate performance, the Azure variants will prioritize long distance driving in comfort, helping you to emerge refreshed when you arrive at your destination. To achieve this goal, every Azure model gets the Front Seat Comfort Specification with 22-way adjustable seats. Bentley says anyone from a 95th percentile male to the 5th percentile female can get comfortable in these leather-wrapped thrones. Heating and ventilation keeps the body temperature at the ideal level while a massage function with six settings improve posture.

To further improve passenger comfort, the Azure models all get Bentley Dynamic Ride, a 48-volt active anti-roll control suspension system that keeps the vehicle stable through corners. It can apply 1,300 Nm of anti-roll torque (about 959 lb-ft) in just 0.3 seconds in order to offset body roll.

The Azura range also includes the Touring Specification driver assistance systems with adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and more for further peace of mind while driving. Finally, a head-up display and night vision camera system come standard as well.

"To create the Azure range, we consulted with neuroscientists to understand the interrelationship of color, texture, tactility and even scent to create an atmosphere of relaxed serenity," says Maria Mulder, Head of Color & Trim at Bentley Motors. "When we see pleasing forms, shapes and colors our brains release chemicals such as dopamine that not only make us feel good but are good for our body and sense of wellbeing. Sensory receptors convert physical stimuli in neural activity, creating changes in our brain and nervous system. Every fabric, sound, motion, color and touch continuously impacts our nervous system and the Azure cabin has been finessed accordingly."

The cabin is awash with wellness quilting, a full range of available wood veneers, and a choice of 15 hide colors or color splits with contrast stitching and seat piping as no-cost options. As a special treat, the Azure models get specially labeled tread plates, Bentley "B" foot pedals, mood lighting, a two-tone heated steering wheel, and Azure seat embroidery. The Flying Spur Azure includes a panoramic roof with Alcantara blinds, while the Continental GT Azure only gets a fixed panoramic glass sunroof.

CarBuzz has reached out to Bentley on pricing and will update the story accordingly.