While the idea of an entry level Rolls Royce seems like an anachronism, the 2010 Ghost is as close as it gets. Sharing some parts with the BMW 7 series due to their corporate sisterhood is not a problem, as all of the shared components are hidden out of sight. The Ghost is slightly larger than the Bentley Flying Spur and slightly smaller than the companies own Phantom.
Rolls expects to double its US sales with the Ghost. They are looking to introduce many to the brand through its lower price tag and its daily use branding. The Ghost has been dubbed a luxury car that can be driven daily, even to the office or store, on regular occasions.
The entry level Rolls Royce is still outfitted with all manner of technology and amenities for driver and passengers alike. Entry level or not, its' no small car. At nearly 5500 lbs, it would take a great deal of power to motivate this monster. Fortunately, the Ghost has it, in the form of a 6.6 liter V-12 making 536 HP and driving the rear wheels through an eight speed auto.
The Range
Bodystyles: Sedan
Engines: 6.6L turbocharged V-12
Transmissions: 8-speed automatic
Models: Ghost
What's New
For its initial year of production, the Ghost features an all-new 6.6-liter V-12 engine that will scoot occupants from rest to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Not bad.
Exterior
Sedate, elegant, yet muscular, the Ghost takes styling cues from the Phantom, but shrinks them to a more manageable scale. The upright front fascia remains largely intact, adding a commanding presence.
Interior
Inside, it's luxury all the way. All of the Ghost's switchgear is unique to the model, and while some controls are a clearly less expensive than in the Phantom, none are outright cheap.
Performance & Handling
On the road, the Ghost doesn't feel very small at all. It's still big and stately -- surging forward on a seemingly endless wave of torque from its V-12 powerplant. Shifts are seamless and silky smooth, and the Ghost corners rather flatly for its size, thanks in part to the active dampers. Those moneyed few expecting to the Ghost to be agile for a Rolls won't be disappointed. But if they're also expecting the maneuverability of a 7 Series sedan, they won't find that here.
Safety
Traction and stability control are both standard equipment as are front occupant front and side airbags. Front and rear occupant side curtain airbags are also standard.
EPA Fuel Economy
13 mpg city/20 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Rolls quality in a smaller package
- Torquey V-12
- Strong value
- Usability
You Won't Like
- Still a large car to drive
- Some controls not up to Phantom quality
Sum Up
A volume Rolls at last
If You Like This Vehicle
- Bentley Continental Flying Spur
- Maybach 57