Barely six months since its global debut in September last year, the Rolls-Royce Ghost has already received a makeover for a second-generation launch that’s now available in Malaysia. Whilst it retains the same dynamic and minimalist character as before, Goodwood claims that the all-new sedan is now “the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce available.”
What makes it so? Here are 7 key traits to know about the new Rolls-Royce Ghost.
Almost everything about its design has evolved
Save for the emblematic Spirit of Ecstasy and signature umbrellas, the new Ghost has undergone a complete overhaul. For the first time, the former is not surrounded by panel lines but stands in its own metal lake of bonnet. This clean redesign is further highlighted by a lighted front end, where 20 LEDs illuminate the metal vanes underneath the top of the radiator grille.
A single straight stroke emphasises the motor car’s length down the flanks, joined by a lower waft line that uses reflection to lighten the surfacing and create a sense of motion. Meanwhile, the near-square rear light graphics are now modernised with a slight forward tilt.
It features a world-first Planar Suspension System
Key to the new Ghost is a proprietary aluminium spaceframe architecture that delivers the marque’s signature “magic carpet ride.” This is owed to an innovative Planar Suspension system that sees damper units added to the upper wishbone of the suspension for unparalleled levels of comfort on the road. Additionally, the new Ghost is now equipped with all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering.
It cleans the air in the cabin for you
Considering the main subject of global news for the past year, the new Ghost’s Micro-Environment Purification System (MEPS) couldn’t be any timelier. With that said, Goodwood claims it has worked on the technology for years (even before the advent of the pandemic) to create the cleanest micro-environment available within a motor car. The system is capable of detecting ambient air quality and automatically switch fresh air intakes to Recirculation Mode if there are harmful levels of airborne contaminants.
It boasts more than 100kg of acoustic insulation
If you’re familiar with Rolls-Royce unique Formula of Serenity, the new Ghost takes that to superior heights. Featuring more than 100kg of acoustic insulation applied in the doors, roof, between the double-glazed windows, inside the tyres and nearly all of its architecture, it offers unprecedented serenity within. In fact, engineers had to develop soft undertones to ensure the sound deprivation doesn’t disorient occupants.
Look for the shooting stars!
Amplifying the Rolls-Royce experience, the famed Starlight Headliner now has a shooting star feature that acts like a large speaker. It forms part of the 18-channel, 18-speaker, 1,300W audiophile grade sound system promising peerless acoustic harmony.
You can now open doors with power assistance from inside
The interiors of the Ghost suite is fitted with only the finest leathers, woods and metals, such as the 338 panels utilising 20 half hides sans busy stitchwork. On the dashboard, a new illuminated Ghost fascia takes pride of place with over 90,000 laser-etched dots across the surface, featuring the same shooting star effect as in the Headliner. Thanks to on-board longitudinal and transverse sensors, on top of G-sensors fitted into each door, Ghost owners can now open doors with power assistance from both inside and outside the car.
Fancy a champagne fridge in the cabin?
Customers can look forward to clinking glasses during commute with the option of including a champagne fridge between the rear seats. Developed with the assistance of a Master Sommelier, the refrigerator offers two cooling modes: six degrees for non-vintage champagnes and 11 degrees for vintage bottles.
Plus – there’s an extended version
The new model comes in two variants, the Ghost and Ghost Extended, which offers 170mm more space that translates into more rear legroom than any other sedan of its segment. The difference between the two is subtle, given that Rolls-Royce has only extended the rear door and body around the rear door apertures to preserve the Ghost’s pure lines.
Orderbooks for the Ghost and Ghost Extended have now opened in Malaysia. Pricing before options and taxes (or customisation) is RM1,450,000 and RM1,650,000 respectively. Each car is backed by a four-year, unlimited mileage warranty with options for an additional two, three, or five years ownership packages. Rolls-Royce TeleServices offers condition-based servicing while Rolls-Royce Assist provides 24/7 roadside assistance.
For more information, log on to the official website here.