The Rolls-Royce Phantom has long been the undisputed monarch of the luxury automotive world. It is the benchmark against which all other ultra-luxury sedans are measured, a vehicle whose very name has become synonymous with opulence, craftsmanship, and an uncompromising standard of excellence. For the first time in 15 years, Rolls-Royce introduced a completely new, ground-up Phantom, marking the eighth generation of this iconic nameplate.
This review takes an in-depth look at the new Rolls-Royce Phantom, exploring its driving dynamics, opulent interior, and the meticulous engineering that makes it the pinnacle of the brand. We recently had the opportunity for a brief but revealing drive through the streets of New York City in a long-wheelbase model, offering a firsthand experience of what this new flagship brings to the road.
The Enduring Legacy of the Rolls-Royce Phantom
The Phantom isn’t just a car; it’s a statement. Since its inception, it has been the vehicle of choice for captains of industry, heads of state, and discerning individuals who demand the absolute best. The seventh-generation Phantom enjoyed an exceptionally long 15-year production run, a testament to its timeless design and engineering. However, the automotive world evolves, and Rolls-Royce has responded with a new model that honors its heritage while embracing modern technology and performance.
“The Phantom is the pinnacle of the Rolls-Royce brand in its truest sense,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “It embodies all of the qualities Rolls-Royce is well known for. It starts with the magic carpet ride, the quality, the precision design, and engineering. It embodies what Sir Henry Royce said, ‘Take the best that exists and make it even better,’ and that is exactly what the Phantom is in every single detail.”
Architecture of Luxury: The New Aluminum Spaceframe
The foundation of the new Phantom is a revolutionary all-aluminum spaceframe architecture. Rolls-Royce aptly calls it the “Architecture of Luxury.” This platform is designed to be scalable and will underpin all future Rolls-Royce models, but it debuted here in the Phantom. This new structure is lighter, stiffer, and more sophisticated than the previous generation’s frame. It contributes significantly to the car’s improved driving dynamics, providing a quieter, more composed ride while enhancing structural integrity.
Driving the Phantom: A New Standard of Grace
While the Phantom is designed with the rear-seat passenger in mind, the driving experience has been dramatically improved. Our test car, a stunning emerald-green long-wheelbase model, was a spectacle, drawing the attention of tourists and jaded New Yorkers alike.
Sliding into the driver’s seat, the first thing you notice is the sense of occasion. Despite the car’s immense size—19.5 feet long—the new Phantom feels surprisingly agile. The previous generation, while magnificent, could feel heavy and ungainly. The new model, thanks to its advanced platform and powertrain, feels much more responsive.
The heart of the Phantom is a new 6.75-liter, twin-turbocharged V12 engine that produces 563 horsepower and a staggering 664 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a satellite-aided eight-speed automatic transmission. The transmission uses GPS data to anticipate the road ahead, pre-selecting the appropriate gear for corners or inclines. The result is a driving experience that is both effortless and exhilarating. Our 5,948-pound long-wheelbase test car can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 5.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph. This “big boy” can truly move with a sense of purpose and grace.
The Chauffeur’s Perspective: A Masterclass in Comfort
For those who will be driven, the rear cabin is nothing short of a sanctuary. The Phantom’s coach doors open to reveal a world of soft, hand-stitched leathers and perfectly applied wood veneers. Thoughtful touches, such as a pair of umbrellas discreetly housed within the doors, are a hallmark of Rolls-Royce’s attention to detail. Closing the massive doors is effortless with the push of a button located on the door pillar.
Settling into the reclining, private-jet-style seats, the first thing you notice is the seemingly endless legroom. It’s so expansive that you almost feel a sense of solitude. The interior is designed to cocoon passengers in silence and comfort.
A Gallery of Features and Technology
The Phantom’s interior is filled with thoughtful features that enhance the passenger experience. A wood picnic table folds away neatly in front of you, and with the push of a button, it deploys along with an infotainment screen. The entire rear cabin’s functions—from seat adjustments to entertainment—are controlled via a rotary controller, essentially a carbon copy of the one found in the front.
Between the rear seats, a champagne chiller is cleverly hidden, ensuring that your beverage of choice is always perfectly chilled. A drinks cupboard in the center console provides additional storage for glassware and bottles. This level of detail is what sets the Phantom apart, turning every journey into an event.
Overhead, the Phantom features the now-standard Starlight Headliner. This iconic feature consists of hundreds of individually placed fiber optic lights that create a constellation-like effect on the ceiling. The installation of this headliner is a meticulous process, taking two craftsmen 17 hours to complete. It is a breathtaking sight during the day, but its true magic is revealed at night, transforming the cabin into a serene, starlit space.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom's Starlight Headliner at night
Pricing and Options: The Art of Bespoke
The Phantom is the ultimate expression of personalization. The standard wheelbase model starts at around $450,000. Our test car, an extended wheelbase model that is eight inches longer, started at $530,000. However, with a range of bespoke optional extras, including the unique paint, interior trim, and the Starlight Headliner, our test car’s final price tag was a staggering $644,000.
This pricing reflects the level of customization available. Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke program allows clients to work directly with designers to create a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle. From custom paint colors to personalized embroidery and unique material combinations, the only limit is the imagination.
Final Impressions
Even a brief encounter with the new Rolls-Royce Phantom leaves a lasting impression. It is a vehicle that successfully honors its legendary past while confidently stepping into the future. The new “Architecture of Luxury” platform, the refined V12 powertrain, and the masterfully crafted interior all combine to create an experience that is truly unparalleled. It’s a car that feels as good to drive as it does to be driven in, a rare and impressive feat.
The eighth-generation Phantom is not just a new car; it is a reaffirmation of Rolls-Royce’s position at the very pinnacle of the automotive world. We look forward to a more extended drive in this magnificent flagship to fully explore the depths of its capabilities and the heights of its luxury.
What are your thoughts on the new Rolls-Royce Phantom? Do you prefer to drive it yourself or be chauffeured in the back? Share your comments below and be sure to check out our other in-depth luxury car reviews for more insights.
References
- Business Insider. (2018, January). We drove a $246,000 Bentley Bentayga SUV to see if it’s ready to do battle with Rolls-Royce and Lamborghini. Here’s the verdict. Retrieved from Business Insider website.
- Business Insider. (2016, June). Rolls-Royce Phantom review. Retrieved from Business Insider website.
- Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. (2017, July). The New Rolls-Royce Phantom Unveiled. Press Release.