(continued from above)
Reflecting the new world in which we live, this pinnacle family of cars -
including Phantom Saloon, Phantom Drophead Coupe and Phantom Coupe - have been
thoughtfully updated with contemporary yet timeless design enhancements that
frame the introduction of cutting-edge technologies which significantly improve
the car's drive-train, ease-of-use and connectivity.
"From launch in 2003, the Rolls-Royce Phantom established itself as the
benchmark in automotive luxury, a reputation it has held ever since," said
Torsten Muller-Otvos, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. "These cars are timeless in
their appeal, but technology moves rapidly and we cannot afford to stand still.
"Today I am delighted to present Phantom Series II, a family of models that
feature significant improvements in design, drive-train and technology. As a
consequence of these changes, we will continue to present with pride the best
motor cars in the world, which re-confirm Rolls-Royce's position at the very
pinnacle of the ultra-luxury goods marketplace."
New LED Lighting
Rolls-Royce Director of Design, Ian Cameron, likens the evolution of Phantom
Series II design to a "familiar theme, lit in a different way". And Phantom's
striking new front-end, with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures,
perhaps best encapsulates the essence of the significant changes that lie
beneath.
Rolls-Royce is the first to include full LED headlamps as standard on a
production car. As well as delivering a characteristic whiter light, augmenting
safety and preventing driver tiredness, these allow for the introduction of new
technologies that better control lighting.
Curve light functionality, for example, uses electronically-controlled
reflectors to focus headlamp beams in the direction of travel, providing greater
illumination of the road ahead when cornering. Adaptive headlamps change the
cone of light projected onto a road - effortlessly of course - in response to
different driving speeds.
Effortless as Standard
Every part of the Phantom experience should be effortless, so new driver
assistance technologies and a modern user interface with re-designed multi-media
controller have been introduced for Phantom Series II. The new satellite
navigation system has been fully updated with functions that include 3D maps
with landscape topography, guided tours and enhanced points of interest, as well
as composite route planning.
Information, maps and video content are presented on Phantom's larger 8.8 inch
control centre display, a feature underlined by eight programmable bookmarks
presenting access to key functions at a driver's fingertips. Front, rear and
top-view camera systems further augment ease of manoeuvring. When reverse
parking, for example, rear path prediction automatically deploys on the screen.
Waftability and Sublime Ride
The word waftability has long been part of the Rolls-Royce lexicon, with models
past and present being renowned for their magnificent ride experience. Phantom
Series II reinforces the company's reputation for both.
A new 8-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential enhance already exemplary
driving dynamics perfectly complementing the V12 direct injection engine. Fuel
consumption improves by 10 per cent on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions fall
from 388 to 347 g/km as a consequence.
An oasis of calm, the 2013 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe's interior is the perfect environment
in which to relax and unwind in welcoming silence.