The first Phantom of the modern era (i.e. owned by BMW) was launched in 2003, so a refresh might be thought overdue. Rolls-Royce does nothing in hurry, however - it would be unseemly - so after suitable thought and deliberation, the Geneva Motor Show finally sees the launch of the Series ll Phantoms. Subtle changes and enhancements have been applied to all four models in the range; the Saloon (sedan), The Extended Wheelbase limo, the two-door Coupe and the two-door Coupe Drophead convertible, though you would have to be pretty eagle-eyed to spot them.
The front fascia treatment is now more consistent across the models, which means new air intakes "under the waterline," new lamp clusters and a new, carefully softened and curved grill for the sedan and the EXB (the Coupe's already had it). The lights are all-new trick LED clusters that allow for beam-shaping when cornering and in reaction to road speed.
The aging satnav system has been overhauled with a new 8.8" screen and eight quick access buttons along the base, plus an exquisitely formed and retractable selection wheel/joystick - all no doubt sourced from the BMW parts bin, but with suitable RR graphics. All-round cameras are now standard with automatic path guides for parking.
There is a new eight-speed auto 'box and a new rear differential to further smooth driving comfort. This has helped to reduce petrol consumption and CO2 emissions from the V12 engine by 10 percent.
That really seems to be it. They like slow and subtle at Rolls-Royce.
Source: Rolls-Royce
