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2018 RR Phantom now here! New Chassis / AWS / 900nm V12 biturbo

Ta da, it’s the all-new Rolls Royce Phantom. Now in its 8th generation, 14 years after the last one, it is not only grander than ever, there’s a lot more party tricks packed in this ultra lux yacht on wheels. For one, the new heir gets unique aluminium spaceframe chassis, which is now 30% more rigid than previous Phantom and a whole 100% stiffer especially in zones where the suspension mounts to, making the drive a whole lot more dynamic compared to before.

This sound a whole better than the modified 7 series based Phantom it replaces. Looks like the new king isn’t just designed to be chauffeur operated like it used to be. About time too, since most RR owners these days range from ages 35-50 and much prefer to drive themselves.

It gets better. Phantom signature V12 powerplant is retained, which is increasingly rare to see in today’s car industry where green is the new black. The no-expense-spared Phantom is powered by ludicrous 6.75L bi turbo V12, which is a recently reworked version of the previous 6.6L lump.

In case you’re wondering, the colour on this Phantom? It’s called the Belladonna Purple.

2018 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM

Engine: 6.75L V12 Twin Turbo
Power: 563hp @ 5000rpm
Torque: 900nm @ 1700rpm
Zerotohundred:  5.4 seconds
Transmission: 8 speed automatic
Prices: 

  • Phantom Standard Wheelbase starts from RM 2.2 million (less taxes)
  • Phantom Extended Wheelbase from RM 2.5 million (less taxes)

Website: https://www.greatphantoms.com/media/

The figures are mad, we are talking 900nm of torque from that massive engine. Imagine the kind of shove this Phantom would have at full blast. Power is at a more stealthy 560hp, which this colossal V12 easily delivers as if it were at walking pace. All that power is delivered via 8 Speed automatic, which is apparently partially assisted via satellite. Advising which range of gears to limit to or, to hold the gears longer should the Phantom be driven on twisty mountain roads for example.

Zerotohundred is achieved in respectable 5.4secs considering the Phantom weighs 2,560kg. 130kg makes up for sound insulation alone, then not forgetting double laminated glass all round and double skinned chassis floor and top to seal the quiet in. It does get studio quality quiet when I sat in the Phantom earlier.

At the launch, Dato Michael Ong, Managing Director for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Kuala
Lumpur and the Executive Director for Quill Group of Companies said, “Phantom has always been a sign of success and a symbol of authority in Malaysia. New Phantom is the latest iteration of the revered flagship of the Rolls-Royce brand, with bold yet elegant design underpinned by engineering attention to detail. It is a moving showcase of luxury, world-class technology and handcrafted quality.”

“New Phantom will undoubtedly set the new benchmark for the best in authentic, bespoke luxury,” he added.

The new Phantom rides on nothing less than air suspension, a cutting edge, obviously, system that includes chassis control, electronic anti roll bar you name it. All to keep the giant bling vessel tame and engaging to driver. Now, the Phantom even gets rear wheel steer, enabling greater stability, manoeuvrability and no more 4 point turns.

The ‘Suite’

Some of the most exclusive materials and design cues have been applied in the interior of the Phantom. Rolls Royce aims to provide an experience no different than when stepping in to a luxury hotel suite. Occupants can enjoy the supreme leather and wood details that are there to impress.

Even the suicide doors can be closed via a touch sensitive button on the inside as well as from the outside. Also, the seats for the rear passengers can be configured by the buyer from lounge arrangement to individual seatings. If you like, you can even have opt for a custom partition to separate the driver and the rear occupants for utmost privacy, especially when negotiating multi-billion dollar deals or when you just need more space with your desired companion.

Every Phantom is built unique, bespoke. Each tailored to their specific owner and no two are the same, unless you want to. You can even choose from 44,000 body colour, 44,001 if you are willing to go further.