Car Review: The Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe Series II

The Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe Series II was unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, right alongside the Phantom Sedan . Just like the sedan version, the coupe has also received a few cosmetic updates, as well as a series of engine updates to help improve fuel economy.

This is the first update the Phantom Coupe has received ever since its official launch back in 2007. The model has made such an impression on the market, Rolls Royce decided to keep the car’s essence and only make a few changes here and there. Exterior changes include a single piece grille surround, presenting a smoother, more contemporary front end that arch into sculpted front wings, the usual redesigned bumpers, and a new set of full LED headlights.

Powering this luxurious coupe is the same 6.75-liter V12 that produces 453 HP, however, fuel consumption has been improved by 10%.

UPDATE 03/08/2012: This review has been updated with the official details and images of the Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe Series II.

Exterior and Interior

Just like the sedan version, the coupe features the famous Rolls Royce Pantheon grille, as well as a re-designed front bumper and new rectangular light apertures. Rolls Royce has also added a single piece grille surround, presenting a smoother, more contemporary front end that arch into sculpted front wings. Customers will have to choose between three new wheels, including painted, part-polished, and polished, with sizes going up to 21″ - the largest fitted as standard to any production car.

The coupe version still won’t offer the same rear room as the sedan, but it will combine the highest quality wood, chrome, and leather. The car gets a new chrome controller, discreetly hidden within the center console and rear-center arm rests when not in use. A larger 8.8-inch control center now features 3D maps with landscape topography that will provide better guidance on long journeys. All models now feature improved interfaces and interaction with wireless technology.

Engine

The Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe retains its usual 6.75-liter V12 that produces 453 HP at 5,350 rpm and 531 lb-ft of torque - delivered between 1,000 and 3,000 rpm. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph will be made in just 5.7 seconds, while top speed goes up to 155 mph.

The engine is mated to a new 8-speed auto ZF-gearbox, electronically controlled to manage the extraordinary power delivered by the V12 power plant. This new transmission helps reduce fuel economy by about 10%.

Rolls Royce has also added double-wishbone front suspensions featuring optimized mounts to minimize vibrations through the steering wheel.

Prices

Prices for the new Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe Series II will be announced closer to its market launch.

Competition

The main competitor for the new Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe Series II is the Bentley Continental GT. The Continental GT is powered by a 6.0 liter W12 powertrain that delivers a total of 567 HP and 700 NM/516 lb-ft of torque. The car sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and can hit a top speed of 198 mph.