Inspired by the 101EX experimental concept of 2006, the Phantom Coupé is the embodiment of a modern, driver focused Rolls-Royce, thanks to the sleek and seductive combination of classic proportions, powerful presence and breathtaking detailing.

Starting with the distinctive LED headlights and rakish, streamlined grille, the Phantom Coupé’s lines flow in one uninterrupted swoop, along the wonderfully indulgent bonnet – which can be specified in beautiful brushed steel - and into the shimmering A-pillars. Here the Phantom Coupé’s lines become increasingly curvaceous as the sleek roofline blends seamlessly with the tapered, muscular haunches for an effortless sense of poise and power.

Coach Doors

A unique feature pioneered in the Phantom, the Phantom Coupé develops Rolls-Royce’s coach door theme, with a pair of spectacular rear-hinged doors.

While creating an unmatched sense of drama and occasion, the unconventional nature of the coach doors posed our engineers some serious legislative challenges. These were overcome with the use of sophisticated electronically controlled door latches, which work in conjunction with a series of sensors to ensure that the coach door cannot be opened while the car is travelling at more than walking pace.

With four full seats, it was essential that the coach doors afford both front and rear passengers with unimpeded access. We have also incorporated a closing assistance system, which can pull the door shut from any opening angle, allowing occupants to close the door from within the passenger cabin at the touch of a button. There is also a soft-close mechanism that pulls the doors closed through the final 6mm of travel, minimising effort and noise.

Design Attributes

As Ian Cameron, Rolls-Royce’s Chief Designer, explains, far from having to create the illusion of performance and excitement, his task with was simply to make a more overt reference to discreet dynamism already present in every Rolls-Royce motor car.

‘Rolls-Royce has always been about pace, performance and style. For the Phantom Coupé we have emphasised the dynamism. The driving dynamics of the Phantom have always come as a surprise to customers and we wanted to emphasise that ability visually with the Phantom Coupé as well as dynamically via hard engineering changes. Its design adds glamour to the outstanding engineering and driveability that’s inherent to all Rolls-Royce motor cars.’

Striking 21in alloy wheels fill the Phantom Coupé’s wheelarches to perfection, while a pair of visible exhaust tailpipes provide a more suggestive clue to the immense performance provided by the magnificent 6.75-litre V12 engine. And then there are spectacular features such as the rear-hinged coach doors and picnic boot, which are defining elements unique to Rolls-Royce and unforgettable highlights of the Phantom Coupé.

Power

As you’d expect from the latest member of the Phantom family, the heart of the Phantom Coupé is its all-aluminium 6749cc V12 engine. Using the most sophisticated engine technology available, including direct petrol injection, variable valve control and variable camshaft timing, it produces impressive maximum power and torque figures - 453bhp at 5350rpm and 531lb ft at 3500rpm - with peerless refinement and unmatched drivability.

Tuned to deliver Rolls-Royce’s legendary ‘waftability’ it gives 75% of its maximum torque at just 1000rpm, the remaining 25% arriving in one, sustained, linear stream as the driver squeezes the throttle. All this muscular accelerative power is delivered to the road through the rear wheels, via a six-speed automatic gearbox. Controlled by a column selector, the transmission uses shift-by-wire technology, which means there is no mechanical linkage between the selector and the transmission itself.

Equipped with a broad spread of ratios and specially programmed mode for spirited driving, this new transmission strategy enhances the Phantom Coupé’s sporting character, while preserving its seamless progress. Engaged via a button located on the steering wheel, the driver is fully able to exploit the V12’s engine’s power and accelerative potential, while automatic downshifting under braking brings an added sense of control and responsiveness.

Though effortless in delivery, the Phantom Coupé’s performance is truly spirited, with a 0-60mph time of just 5.6sec and an electronically governed top speed of 155mph.

Power of different kind is supplied by the Phantom’s electrical system. With a two liquid-cooled alternators and automatic charge management of the main battery and dedicated starter battery (both located beneath the boot floor for optimum weight distribution), you can use the Phantom’s entertainment systems without fear of draining the starter battery and compromising vehicle reliability

New Face

Sleek and rakish, yet instantly recognisable, the Phantom Coupé’s new face embodies its modern, dynamic spirit while retaining the confidence and grandeur that has characterised Rolls-Royce motor cars for more than a century.

Smaller and reclined at a more streamlined angle than that of the Phantom, the Phantom Coupé’s grille is made entirely from stainless steel: the central element of which is polished, while the outer shell is brushed to match that of the optional bonnet, windscreen surround and other exterior brightwork.

The new grille design also conceals an ingenious hinged mount, which allows the base of the grille to move in the event of a low speed impact, absorbing parking knocks that would otherwise result in damage.

Another striking feature of the Phantom Coupé’s face are its headlights. Incorporating LED technology, these headlights add drama and expression to the Coupé’s face.