Since its debut in 2009, the Rolls-Royce Ghost has been redefining luxury for a new generation of discerning clients. With the unveiling of the Ghost Series II and Black Badge Ghost Series II, Rolls-Royce is elevating its most popular nameplate to new heights.
Known for being uniquely expressive and agile, the second-generation Ghost boasts exceptional handling capabilities as well as new technological advancements, and is billed as the most driver-focused V12 the carmaker has ever created.
Rolls-Royce’s Technological Tour de Force
The Ghost Series II’s exterior updates are subtle yet impactful, with a redesigned grille and headlights that give it a more assertive presence. The new 22-inch wheel designs, available in fully or part-polished finishes, complement the car’s contemporary yet timeless aesthetic. Perhaps the most striking addition is the new Mustique Blue exterior colour, capturing the hues and glamour of the Caribbean island it’s named after.
Inside the Ghost Series II, the new SPIRIT operating system integrates seamlessly with the Whispers app, allowing owners to send navigation directions directly to the car or check its status remotely for peace of mind. There is also an upgraded 18-speaker audio system, powered by a 1,400-watt amplifier, which is a feast for the ears.
The Spirit of Ecstasy Clock Cabinet adds a touch of analogue elegance to the digital cockpit, while the Illuminated Fascia spans the full width of the passenger side, capturing the movement of the night sky. New materials, such as Grey Stained Ash and Duality Twill, showcase Rolls-Royce’s commitment to innovative craftsmanship.
At the heart of the Ghost Series II is the marque’s potent 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, paired with an eight-speed gearbox. The celebrated Planar Suspension System, incorporating a unique Upper Wishbone Damper unit, ensures the legendary Rolls-Royce “magic carpet ride” is preserved while offering enhanced agility.
Power Unleashed
The Black Badge Ghost Series II is where Rolls-Royce’s alter ego truly comes to life. Easily turning heads with its brooding presence, the vehicle’s darkened chrome finishes on the Spirit of Ecstasy, Pantheon Grille, and other exterior elements create a menacing aura. The unique 22-inch part-polished seven-spoke forged wheelset provides a clear view of the powerful disc brakes, signalling the car’s extraordinary dynamic abilities.
Under the bonnet, the V12 engine receives a high-power configuration, producing 29PS more power and 50Nm more torque than the standard Ghost Series II. The ‘Low’ button on the gear selection stalk unlocks the full suite of Black Badge technologies, including a 50 per cent increase in gearshift speeds and a more voluble exhaust note.
Inside, the Technical Carbon surface finish dominates, created through a complex process involving carbon and metallic fibres. The Black Badge family motif, an infinity symbol, can be specified on the rear Technical Carbon ‘Waterfall’ section. For those seeking even more drama, the Duality Twill textile or Placed Perforation leather treatments offer bold new ways to express individuality.
The Black Badge Planar Suspension system takes the Ghost’s already impressive handling to new levels. When exploring the car’s significant power reserves, the braking bite point has been raised, and pedal travel decreased, directly responding to client requests for a uniquely potent expression of the Rolls-Royce brand.
Both the Ghost Series II and Black Badge Ghost Series II blend timeless luxury with contemporary technology and driving dynamics in a way that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago. These new Ghosts are perfectly positioned to capture the hearts and imaginations of a new generation of luxury enthusiasts, who demand both performance and prestige from their motorcars.
Photography: Rolls-Royce