2008 Los Angeles Auto Show: Bentley Azure T

STORY TOOLS
Digg this	del.icio.us

LOS ANGELES — Bentley has announced that it will unveil a high-performance convertible version of its Azure four-seater at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, proclaiming it "the world's most elegant" and "destined to become a future classic." It is Bentley's first T model since the Arnage T in 2002 and was also preceded by a Continental T in 1996.

The Azure T gets the Bentley 6.75-liter V8 engine with twin turbochargers, mated to a six-speed ZF automatic transmission. In the convertible, it makes 500 horsepower, a 50-hp increase over the standard Azure, and a "famous Bentley wave of torque": 738 pound-feet. The Arnage T offers a top speed of 179 mph and a 0-60-mph time of under 5.2 seconds.

Looks, of course, are a huge part of the story. In front, there is a retractable Bentley Flying B mascot on the hood and dark-tinted upper and lower grilles. There are Le Mans-style lower front wing air vents and a set of 20-inch five-spoke bright-finish alloy wheels.

Inside, the sporting touches include drilled alloy pedals, black instrument faces and embroidered Bentley logos on the seats, which are diamond quilted. There is tradition: unbleached veneers and a choice of 25 different hides. There is novelty: an iPod/USB interface. There are also knurled-finish handles and switches, a knurled and chromed gearshift knob and a Naim for Bentley premium 10-speaker audio system.

The Azure T will make its official debut on November 19 at the Los Angeles show.

Inside Line says: This should be a major crowd pleaser at the Los Angeles show. — Laura Sky Brown, Correspondent