The Rolls-Royce Phantom has undergone its most extensive overhaul since launch in 2003. Revealed at today's Geneva motor show, the Phantom Series II is only distinguishable from before by a series of subtle styling tweaks. The biggest changes are the addition of a new eight-speed automatic gearbox, a new rear differential and overhauled electronic systems in the cabin.
Gallery: Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II
The new eight-speed automatic replaces the existing six-speed transmission. It is mated to the otherwise unchanged 453bhp 6.7-litre V12 engine. Economy is improved by 10 per cent and CO2 emissions are cut from 388g/km to 347g/km.
Rolls-Royce design chief Ian Cameron describes the styling changes as “a familiar theme, lit in a different way”.
The Phantom Series II is the first production car to adopt fully LED headlamps as standard. The adaptive lights change in intensity according to speed and feature a cornering capability. Other styling changes on the Series II include restyled bumpers and rectangular light apertures.
The changes are adopted across all four models in the Phantom range: saloon, extended-wheelbase saloon, coupé and drophead. The first Series II models will be delivered by the end of June, at prices around five per cent higher than the current Phantom range.
Join the debate
Add your comment
Re: Geneva 2012: Rolls-Royce Phantom
Re: Geneva 2012: Rolls-Royce Phantom
Re: Geneva 2012: Rolls-Royce Phantom
Of all website car configurators, the RR one is the most fun because they offer leather in such an excellent range of colours. What a relief from the usual choice of everyday tan, funereal black or boring grey.
The dash on the Phantom is OK, the one on the Ghost I find a bit clumsy. Driving can be fun but it can be a slog, so billionaire me would ride in the back of a Phantom driven by an update of Emma Peel. Of course it's her mind that I would find so attractive.