LUXURY car brand Bentley has launched a new Azure trim grade designed to enhance passenger comfort and wellbeing.

The Azure range will be a permanent offering across the full Bentley model line-up, including Bentayga, Bentayga EWB, Flying Spur, Continental GT and Continental GT Convertible.

According to the Crewe-based company, Azure is more than just a specification - it includes tactile and visual cues designed to reduce stress and includes driver assistance technologies for smoother, safer journeys.

So where the Bentley Speed family takes the ultimate in performance as its prime focus, an Azure will accentuate the ability to travel long distances swiftly and smoothly, leaving driver and passengers to alight at journey's end feeling refreshed, alert and ready to resume their lives.

Bentley believes seating to be the foundation for driving comfort and control, and all Azures feature the Front Seat Comfort spec with up to 22-way adjustable seats, while a special heating and ventilation function helps maintain the body's optimum temperature for alertness.

Azure also features a massage function with six programmable settings, adjustable side bolsters, electric seatbelt adjustment and comfort headrests.

Another key element of the Azure range is Bentley Dynamic Ride, a 48V active anti-roll control system that enhances ride comfort and limits roll for smoother, more relaxing journeys.

And all Azure models feature the Touring Specification of driver assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Traffic Assist and Bentley Safeguard, a suite of onboard radar and camera systems which constantly monitor the surrounding traffic and roads and can intervene if necessary to prevent or avoid an accident.

All models will display Azure badging on the exterior, treadplates, fascia and seat embroidery while other design features are bright chrome lower bumper grilles, unique 22-inch ten-spoke wheels, wellness quilted seats and finishing touches such as the Bentley ‘jewel' filler cap.

The Flying Spur Azure also features a glass-to-glass panoramic sunroof as part of the specification and a fixed panoramic glass sunroof is included in the Continental GT Azure specification.

Bentley's head of colour and trim Maria Mulder said: "To create the Azure range, we consulted with neuroscientists to understand the inter-relationship of colour, texture, tactility and even scent to create an atmosphere of relaxed serenity.

"When we see pleasing forms, shapes and colours 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, colour and touch continuously impacts our nervous system and the Azure cabin has been finessed accordingly."