Istanbul, a sprawling metropolis spanning the Bosporus Strait, serves as a unique bridge between Europe and Asia, home to over 15 million residents. Originally known as Byzantium in ancient times, the city underwent several name changes, notably to Nova Roma by Constantine the Great in the 4th century. Eventually, it evolved into Constantinople following the Ottoman conquest of 1453, before officially adopting the name Istanbul in the 20th century under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
Bentley Introduces Azure Package for Enhanced Luxury
Recently unveiled by Bentley, the Azure package signifies a step up in luxury beyond standard offerings. Introduced in May 2022 across Bentley’s lineup, Azure is positioned between the base model and the sport-oriented S specification. Highlighting this package are enhancements such as the Front Seat Comfort Specification, featuring 22-way adjustable seats, electrically adjustable bolster and seatbelts, and six massage modes. Beyond comfort, Azure offers a variety of upholstery choices, open-pore wood veneers, and distinctive Bentley branding details like the illuminated treadplates and B logos on the pedals.
Further enriching the Azure experience are advanced technologies including Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti-roll bars, a head-up display, and bespoke 22-inch wheels with a ten-spoke design. The package also includes bright chrome accents on the lower front grilles and the comprehensive Touring Specification, integrating driver-assist systems like traffic assist, lane assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Mulliner Istanbul Silhouette Collection: A Tribute to Iconic Landmarks
Distinctive among Bentley’s offerings is the Mulliner Istanbul Silhouette Collection, a limited trio celebrated for its bespoke design elements. Adorned in Black Sapphire paint with Dragonfly Blue accents, including carbon side skirts, each vehicle features special treadplates inscribed with “Istanbul Silhouette Regional Collection” and “One of Three.” These plates showcase minimalist drawings of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks such as Galata Tower, Maiden’s Tower, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, intricately embroidered in Dragonfly Blue on the seats.
The interior design pays homage to Istanbul’s cultural heritage with upholstery blending Imperial Blue and Beluga, inspired by the patterns of Sultan Ahmed Mosque tiles. Galaxy stone and Piano Imperial Blue wood further enhance the luxurious ambiance, complemented by a specially designed key box for a unique finishing touch.
Azure V8: Performance and Power
Underpinning the Bentley Azure V8 is the Volkswagen Group’s renowned twin-turbocharged V8 engine, codenamed EA825. Delivering 542 horsepower and 568 pound-feet (770 Nm) of torque, this engine powers various Bentley models equipped with either an eight-speed automatic transmission in the Bentayga or a dual-clutch gearbox in the Continental GT and Flying Spur. Top speeds range from 180 mph (290 km/h) in the Bentayga Azure V8 to 198 mph (318 km/h) in the coupe and sedan variants.
Looking ahead, Bentley plans revisions for the 2025 model year Continental GT and Continental GTC, transitioning from the discontinued twin-turbo W12 to a flagship plug-in hybrid centered around the twin-turbocharged V8 engine from the group.
This evolution underscores Bentley’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation, offering discerning customers unparalleled luxury and performance in every drive.
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