Rolls-Royce Planning V16-Powered Roadster, SUV Models
Rolls-Royce isn’t about to get complacent with its current lineup of models and steady sales growth; the British luxury automaker is planning on a V16-powered convertible and even an SUV model.
After Rolls-Royce debuts the Wraith model in Geneva in just a few weeks time, it appears that it’ll be addressing Bentley’s entry into the SUV market with an SUV of its own. More exciting however, is the prospect of the British automaker building a V16-powered convertible that could be a supercar rivaling the likes of the Bugatti Veyron.
SEE ALSO: Rolls-Royce Wraith Caught Testing in Spy Photos
Rolls-Royce has long been considering a V16 powerplant, having debuted a 100EX concept back in 2004 that was equipped with a 9.0-liter, V16. According to CAR, engineering sources have regretted that the powerplant hasn’t made its way into a production model – especially the Phantom, where it could have helped further differentiate the model from the cheaper, but more powerful Ghost.
Of course, Rolls-Royce wouldn’t be targeting the performance numbers that Bugatti exudes. It will continue to uphold its values in luxury and refinement if a V16-powered roadster was to be produced. As for the SUV, Rolls-Royce head Harald Kruger admitted in the same interview that the automaker is constantly “monitoring the competition’s activities,” and “regularly debating whether to take action.”
[Source: CAR]
Discuss this story at RollsRoyceForums.com
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
More by Jason Siu
Comments
Join the conversation
"Rolls-Royce Planing V16-Powered Roadster, SUV Models"? So they're using a planer to smooth the body panels?