Bentley’s gracefully aging Azure convertible will reportedly retain its name when a Mulsanne-based replacement debuts in the not-too-distant future. Sources indicate that it will debut in 2011 as a 2012 model.
The range-topping convertible, which sits above the Continental GT, will, like the Mulsanne, be designed to appeal more to Bentley’s traditional customers. Look for the automaker’s classic-yet-updated 6.75-liter, twin-turbo V8 from the Mulsanne to carry over into the third-generation Azure.
Despite middling sales for the current Azure, which was never intended to be a volume model like the Continental GT, Bentley has been careful to ensure that there is enough production capacity for a flagship convertible at its Crewe, England, assembly plant.
The existing Azure has been on sale since 2006, although it was updated last year to become the Azure T. Based on the now-discontinued Arnage, its future has been the subject of much speculation.
As more details on the next-generation Azure become available, we’ll make sure to update this space.
References
1.’Bentley unveils high…’ view
Source: Leftlane