New 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom Raises the Bar for Opulence
The all-new 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom has just been unveiled, and although it might not look too different, the changes are sweeping.
As what is widely accepted as the most luxurious car in the world, the eighth-generation Rolls-Royce Phantom raises the benchmark for opulence. The flagship helps Rolls-Royce debut a new lighter yet more rigid all-aluminum spaceframe platform that will underpin future models such as the upcoming SUV and subsequent versions of the Dawn, Wraith, and Ghost.
Of course, the Phantom continues to be propelled by a smooth V12, which the British automaker says is completely new. Ditching natural aspiration, this new 6.75-liter motor is twin turbocharged to output 664 pound-feet of torque at a low 1,700 rpm and 563 horsepower. An eight-speed satellite-aided transmission gets all that power to the road.
Other upgrades over the old model include a new double-wishbone front axle and five-link rear axle, four-wheel steering, and the latest iteration of the self-levelling air suspension, among others.
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The Rolls-Royce Phantom gets sweeping tech upgrades as well including an alertness assistant, four-camera 360-degree backup camera, night vision and night assist, active cruise control, collision warning, pedestrian detection, cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, a big head-up display, and wifi hotspot and internet connectivity. A large new retractable infotainment screen and customizable dash panel fascia also dominate the center stack to mimic an art gallery.
RR also claims this is the “most silent motor car in the world,” with more than 287 pounds (130 kg) of sound deadening and special tires that essentially wipe out tire noise.
Sensors on the door and automatically soft-closing doors facilitate entry, and, as always, the interior is as opulent as ever. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but we can assure you people are already sending their chauffeurs to local Rolls-Royce dealers.
Jodi has been obsessed with cars since she was little and has been an automotive journalist for the past 12 years. She has a Bachelor of Journalism from Ryerson University in Toronto, is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and a jury member for the prestigious North American Car/Truck/Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY). Besides hosting videos, and writing news, reviews and features, Jodi is the Editor-in-Chief of AutoGuide.com and takes care of the site's day-to-day operations.
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I'll take two. My wife would insist on her own