Since its inception, Rolls-Royce has been synonymous with luxury, precision, and unmatched craftsmanship. The Ghost, one of the most popular models in the marque’s lineup, has been a testament to this legacy. In 2024, Rolls-Royce unveiled the Ghost Series II, a vehicle designed to redefine the driving experience for those who value luxury, innovation, and personal expression. This article explores what makes the Ghost Series II the most advanced, driver-centric V12 Rolls-Royce ever created.
A Brief History of the Ghost
The Ghost first debuted in 2009 as a more versatile and approachable luxury vehicle aimed at younger clients than the iconic Phantom. The car quickly became a favorite, blending traditional Rolls-Royce elegance with a more modern, driver-focused design. In 2020, the second generation of the Ghost was launched, setting new standards in technology and craftsmanship, making it the most advanced V12 Rolls-Royce at the time.
Now, with the 2024Â Ghost Series II, the marque has taken the vehicle’s design, technology, and performance to an entirely new level, creating a car that not only delivers on serenity and luxury but also offers an engaging and dynamic driving experience.
Exterior Evolution
The Ghost Series II is a prime example of Rolls-Royce’s approach to subtle yet meaningful design evolution. The car’s front has been meticulously crafted to give it a monolithic, modern look. The illuminated Pantheon grille, a brand signature, is complemented by new headlight graphics and daytime running lights, creating a clean and contemporary appearance. Chrome embellishments around the grille and a new tail lamp configuration add to the car’s sophisticated and powerful stance. These enhancements highlight the Series II’s wider frame, further enhancing its presence on the road.
One of the standout features is the introduction of new 22-inch, 9-spoke wheels, available in fully polished or part-polished finishes. These wheels add an extra layer of modern elegance to the car’s timeless design.
Interior Craftsmanship and Innovation
Stepping inside the Ghost Series II is akin to entering a world where craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology. Rolls-Royce has meticulously crafted every inch of the interior, from the new pillar-to-pillar glass Central Information Display to the finely detailed Spirit of Ecstasy Clock Cabinet.
The Central Information Display integrates Rolls-Royce’s advanced operating system, which can be customized to match the car’s interior or exterior finish. This allows owners to extend their bespoke commissions from hardware to software. The Whispers app, a private members’ application, allows owners to manage their car’s settings and location remotely, a testament to how Rolls-Royce seamlessly blends digital innovation with traditional luxury.
The cabin is also equipped with an upgraded entertainment system. Rear passengers can connect up to two streaming devices, each operating independently on rear screens. With Bluetooth® compatibility and an upgraded Wi-Fi® hotspot, the Ghost Series II ensures that passengers enjoy the ultimate in connectivity and comfort.
An Elevated Sound Experience
‘One of the most remarkable features of the Ghost Series II is its Bespoke Audio system. Rolls-Royce has incorporated an 18-speaker, 1400-watt system that transforms the car’s lower aluminum sections into resonance chambers, creating a full-bodied sound experience. The addition of ‘speakerless’ exciters bonded to the Starlight Headliner further enhances this auditory experience, turning the ceiling of the car into an expansive sound stage.
One of the Ghost Series II’s most remarkable features is its Bespoke Audio system. Rolls-Royce has incorporated an 18-speaker, 1400-watt system that transforms the car’s lower aluminum sections into resonance chambers, creating a full-bodied sound experience. The addition of ‘speakerless’ exciters bonded to the Starlight Headliner further enhances this auditory experience, turning the car’s ceiling into an expansive sound stage.
To ensure the sound is perfectly balanced, active microphones inside the cabin constantly monitor frequencies, adjusting the amplifier as needed to optimize sound quality. This makes the Ghost Series II not only a luxury vehicle but also an exceptional listening environment.
Performance and Engineering Marvel
‘Underneath the Ghost SeriesII’ss luxurious exterior lies a 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, which produces effortless power and smooth performance. The car’s hallmark Planar Suspension System offers a driving experience described as “flight on land,” with Rolls-Royce engineers spending ten years perfecting the sensation. The system integrates an Upper Wishbone Damper and electronically controlled shock absorbers, providing exceptional stability and a ‘magic carpet ride’ for which Rolls-Royce is renowned.
Underneath the Ghost Series II’s luxurious exterior lies a 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, which produces effortless power and smooth performance. The car’s hallmark Planar Suspension System offers a driving experience described as “flight on land,” with Rolls-Royce engineers spending ten years perfecting the sensation. The system integrates an Upper Wishbone Damper and electronically controlled shock absorbers, providing exceptional stability and a ‘magic carpet ride’ for which Rolls-Royce is renowned.
Additionally, the Flagbearer System uses cameras to scan the road ahead, adjusting the suspension to account for changes in the terrain. Paired with the Satellite Aided Transmission, which uses GPS to pre-select the ideal gear for cornering, the Ghost Series II offers an unparalleled driving experience, combining serenity with agility and dynamism.
Bespoke Creativity and Innovation
Rolls-Royce is renowned for offering its clients unparalleled opportunities for bespoke customization, and the Ghost Series II is no exception. With access to over 44,000 paint options, including the new Mustique Blue inspired by the Caribbean island, clients can create a truly unique car.
Inside, the Duality Twill rayon fabric, made from bamboo, represents Rolls-Royce’s commitment to sustainable luxury. This material, developed over four years, offers clients a luxurious yet eco-conscious choice. Additionally, the Grey Stained Ash wood used in the interior is enriched with metallic particles to create a shimmering effect, further showcasing the marque’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship.
For clients seeking a more avant-garde design, Placed Perforation technology allows intricate, three-dimensional patterns to be created in the seat leather. This provides a unique artistic touch that draws inspiration from the changing shadows of clouds over Rolls-Royce’s Goodwood estate.
Ghost Extended Series II: An Even Larger Canvas for Creativity
For those who require more space, the Ghost Extended Series II offers 170mm of additional rear legroom, providing a luxurious rear-seat experience. Despite its increased size, the Extended Series II retains the dynamic and agile driving characteristics of the standard Ghost, ensuring that even those who opt for the larger model can enjoy a driver-focused experience.
The Serenity Seating option in the Extended Series II, with its reclined rear seats and Champagne cooler, brings the luxury of private air travel to the road, ensuring that passengers can indulge in ultimate comfort while still having the option of self-driving.
Conclusion
The Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II is a triumph of engineering, craftsmanship, and innovation, combining timeless luxury with cutting-edge technology. With its advanced driver-focused systems, bespoke options, and exquisite design, the Ghost Series II is more than just a car—it is a statement of individuality and sophistication.
As the most advanced V12 Rolls-Royce ever created, the Ghost Series II reflects the brand’s continued commitment to evolving with its clients’ needs while maintaining the essence of what makes Rolls-Royce a leader in the world of luxury automobiles. Whether driving or being driven, Ghost Series II owners can expect a sublime experience that is unmatched in the world of luxury vehicles.
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