2009 Geneva Auto Show: Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire

GENEVA — The Bugatti Veyron juggernaut continues, this time with the arrival of yet another special edition called the Bleu Centenaire, intended to mark the brand's 100th anniversary — and help sell a few more Veyrons.

Bugatti's parent Volkswagen proudly observes that in three years, it has taken orders for 250 of the 300 Veyrons it intends to build. That means its Molsheim affiliate needs somehow to scare up another 50 well-heeled buyers.

Debuting at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show, the Bleu Centenaire hopes to lure fans of the marque with a special two-tone paint scheme, with matte and gloss variations of Bugatti Blue extending even into the engine compartment. Bugatti uses polished anodized aluminum for the outside mirrors and roof rails, and fits unique wheels with bright red brake calipers.

A new quilted "snow beige" leather covers the seats and center console. In terms of specification, the latest edition gets new features including LED lamps, park distance control and a rearview camera. Otherwise, the Bleu Centenaire shares its basic underpinnings, including powertrain, with the rest of the Veyron series.

Asking price: $1.69 million, before taxes and shipping.

Inside Line says: Bugatti Bleu is nearly as evocative to automotive historians and fans as Ferrari Rosso. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent