Something that rarely happens has finally happened with Rolls-Royce launching their newest car, none other than the 8th generation Phantom. For the past several years, Rolls-Royce has been counting on BMW underpinnings, thus, it is a pleasant surprise to see that the Phantom VIII boasts of a brand new bespoke scalable platform. This is expected to underpin the rest of the future Rolls, include the next Wraith coupe, Dawn drophead convertible, and Ghost saloon.
Unlike the outgoing model, the latest Phantom is considerably lighter but is as much as 30% more rigid. This also sports a new double-wishbone front axle and 5-link rear axle complete with self-leveling air suspension as well as a 4-wheel steering. On top of these all, there is a whole new piece of technology which will surely make the popular Magic Carpet Ride of Rolls-Royce even feel more floaty. Known as the Flagbearer, this brand new technology makes use of a stereo camera system which has been integrated to the windscreen. This can scan the road ahead and adjust the suspension accordingly to as much as 62mph speed.
Although it is lighter than before, over 130kg of sound insulation is added together with a double skin alloy bulkhead and floor, and the brand new tyres known as Silent Seal, featuring a foam layer which claims to be decrease tyre noise to as much as 9db.
As usual, the interior of Rolls-Royce is the main event here. The rear part of the Phantom VII retains the slightly Art Deco styling and the minimalist feel of the outgoing model, with the TV screens and picnic tables tacked away only to appear with a mere touch of a button. Also, there is a new centre console including a drinks cabinet with a coolbox, champagne flutes, and whiskey glasses and decanter.
You can also expect to have a great ride in this new model from Rolls-Royce, thanks to its heated armrests and seats, and several available seat configurations, with every configuration having the rear seats angled in an inwards manner so that the occupants will not strain their necks.
But, it is upfront where you can see the real changes. Rolls referred to it as The Gallery and not a mere dashboard. The company has gotten rid of the traditional great wood slab on the dash’s upper part and what you will find in its place is the large window pane. Right in front of the driver is the 12.3-inch TFT screen which displays the speed, temperature and fuel levels, and power research together with other information such as driver assistance data and sat-nav. The infotainment system of the car appears and disappears with just a mere touch of a button.
Under the hood, you will find a brand new engine. Although it is still the 6.75-litre V12, this time, it features a couple of turbochargers and comes with 900Nm of torque and 563bhp. This is paired up to a brand new satellite aided 8-speed automatic gearbox. The company also decided to add a suite of safety tech such as the 4-camera system with panoramic view, an alertness assistance, cross-traffic warning, pedestrian warning, and active cruise control.