2008 Bentley Azure

The flagship in Bentley's line-up took a hiatus since 2002 and returned for 2007, though apart from a few detail differences inside and out, not much has changed. The 2008 model differs from last year's only when it comes to options, namely the 20-inch 16-spoke polished or painted wheels, carbon/silicon carbide brakes, Titan Grey or Venusian Grey body colors, new Dark Stained Vavona veneer and three new leather colors: Newmarket Tan, Cashew and Anthracite.

Power comes the old-fashioned way, from a huge 6.75 liter all-iron V8 good for 450 horsepower at 4,100 rpm and a more impressive 645 lb-ft at just 1,800 rpm. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission available to cope with this power and send it to the rear wheels. The EPA estimates the Azure will return 11.7 mpg in the city cycle and 20.3 mpg on the highway.
Noteworthy standard features include a choice of 39 colors, one-touch power folding mirrors, park distance control system, 19-inch alloy wheels, fully automatic canvas roof with heated rear glass and interior courtesy light, six-CD changer, leather steering wheel and shifter, Bluetooth telephone system, cruise control. There are a few no-cost options, namely a 2-D Bentley Winged B badge as opposed to a retractable Flying B mascot.

The opulent interior features burr walnut veneer (or dark stained burr walnut or piano black woodwork or bird's eye maple with walnut substrate instead) and a choice of 21 colors of leather upholstery.

Safety features include ventilated disc brakes all around with anti-lock control, electronic brake pressure distribution, and hydraulic brake assist. For control, a Bosch 5.7 electronic stability program is employed, and there is also an engine drag torque control (to prevent abrupt engine braking, which could cause drive wheels to lose traction) as well as an aquaplane detection system. There are two full-size airbags for the front seat passengers, while a thorax airbag system protects the rear occupants.

Noteworthy optional features include custom body colors, or any color from any pre-existing Bentley mode, chrome radiator shells, chromed door mirror caps, a jewel fuel filler cap, a choice of five 19-inch wheel styles and the aforementioned 20-inch wheels, four interior wood / trim choices and custom interior leather colors.

Audio system options include an Alpine CD / radio system with MP3 capability, six-disc changer, JL speakers and subwoofer as well as a four-channel amplifier. A reversing camera which will display what's behind the car can also be ordered.