Rolls-Royce Ghost

Think luxury and Rolls-Royce probably does it better than any other. Rolls-Royce started work on this new model range back in 2006, stating only that it would be smaller than the Phantom saloon and would be in production by 2010. Finally this beautiful car was unveiled in all its beauty at Frankfurt. Code named RR4, the new Ghost has more informal lines than previous Rollers, yet retains strong purposeful proportions. The 200EX prototype was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year to popular acclaim.

After the show, the 200EX embarked on a world tour, during which further information about the forthcoming production model became available. It would be powered by a new 6.6-litre V12 unique to the marque, delivering 563 bhp with extraordinary performance figures. It would ride on an intelligent air suspension system offering peerless ride and dynamics. And it would be called Ghost.

The Ghost has now been formally launched. According to chief designer Ian Cameron, "Ghost's flowing lines are dominated by its majestic 'Yacht Line' styling." Large, uninterrupted surfaces flow between finely sculpted horizontal lines that provide definition. Together, the upward sweeping sill line and low-cut roof create a powerful profile, almost as though the cabin has been pushed toward the rear. Powerful shoulders and flanks draw in sharply as they flow from the rear wings to the tail lights, while touches such as the optional chromed exhausts hint at Ghost's more dynamic nature.

While incorporating classic Rolls-Royce design cues - the elevated prow, long bonnet, short front overhang, sharply raked A-pillar and elegant tail - Ghost exudes an informal aura. Contemporary touches include self-righting wheel centres and the Xenon headlamps that frame the latest evolution of the Rolls-Royce grille. When considering a Rolls-Royce car it is usual to think of wood, leather and chrome, but the company has its roots in engineering. Long before the interior items are prepared, experts are working to ensure that the chassis components, power trains and bodywork are operating in fluid harmony. Ghost is built around a steel monocoque body, which means there is no separation of chassis and body.

Ghost rides on a bed of air. Double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension work with an intelligent, four-cornered, air-suspension system and electronic variable damping to deliver the refinement that has been associated with Rolls-Royce for more than 100 years.

Ghost is powered by a brand new, 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, unique to the model. Featuring direct injection, it produces 563bhp - enough to propel Ghost from 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds and on to an electronically governed top speed of 155mph. With 780Nm of torque available at just 1,500rpm, delivery of power is immediate and extremely smooth.

Power is transmitted through an eight speed, shift by wire, automatic ZF gearbox. What this achieves is a feeling of endless, surging power, which is illustrated by the power reserve gauge on the fascia, replacing the more common rev counter. The new powertrain delivers this performance while emitting just 317g/km of CO2. Fuel consumption is 13.6 l/100km.

Ghost is more driver focused than any Rolls-Royce car before it. The driver sits in a slightly elevated position behind the wheel, described as the authority position. The control centre display is concealed behind a veneered panel until its services are called upon. All features such as satellite navigation, telephone, communication and entertainment functions are displayed here and managed via a central rotary controller, flanked by quick access buttons on the front centre console.

The optional driver assistance systems and technologies in Ghost are notable for their discretion and ease of operation. From the moment the driver approaches the car, optional Comfort Entry allows easy access, unlocking the doors when the key fob is within 1.5 metres and the cool chromed handle is grasped. Once you are in the car, voice control allows you to select from the control systems menus without using the central controller. Rear, front side and top view cameras provide the driver with a fish eye view for ease of manoeuvring of the car.