This year marks the next step in the legacy of the Rolls Royce Phantom. We are celebrating the much anticipated release of the all-new Phantom 8 after nearly 15 years in development. This is part of what makes the iconic automotive flagship so special. When revealed this Summer, it was clear that only the best comes to those who wait.
In paying homage to the 92-year history of the Phantom, Rolls Royce gathered the finest examples of past generation Phantoms with rich history and flair to show off at the “The Great Eight Phantoms” exhibit at Bonhams of London. Nobleman’s own Editor-In-Chief, Doug McLaughlin, and myself received a special invite to view the Phantom I. This was a pristine 1927 model owned by the late Hollywood great Fred Astaire. It was an absolute honor to have that opportunity.
Each generation has become a landmark of refinement and the pinnacle of luxury automotive engineering of its time. Rolls Royce has done it again for the eighth time. It is a fantastic example of purposeful evolution. It has reintroduced true personalization and bespoke interior design options to its owners. Secondly, handling has greatly improved and there is a noticeable reduction in transmitted road noise throughout the cabin.
The new 6.75-liter V12 under its enormous bonnet now uses twin turbos to produce 563 hp and keeps engine revs and noise reduced because of it. The 8-speed transmission uses satellite intelligence to detect road changes and preloads shift data for only the smoothest undetectable shifts. The Phantom 8 also uses cameras in the windshield to detect uneven surfaces and adjust dampers accordingly. Rolls Royce calls these autonomous drive quality features “magic carpet ride”. Boundless interior options and customizations are available from leather colors, seating arrangement and starlight headliner. The most unique change to the interior is the introduction of “The Gallery”. It is a sealed glass fixture straight ahead in the dashboard that can encase a one off priceless masterpiece or an original 3D image molded and created just for your Phantom. If you can think it, it can be displayed. There will never be two Phantom 8s alike. Thankfully for us, that means we can expect each contact with a Phantom 8 to be a unique and thrilling experience.
Words by Jeremy Epp
