In the world of luxury automobiles, there exists a class that transcends the ordinary, where craftsmanship meets opulence and power marries sophistication. It is within this rarified sphere that the Rolls-Royce Wraith reigns supreme.
A grand tourer of uncompromising excellence, the Wraith embodies the very essence of British luxury and automotive artistry. In this comprehensive review, we will embark on a journey through the lavish world of the Rolls-Royce Wraith, exploring everything from its design and performance to its interior opulence, cutting-edge technology and the extraordinary ownership experience it affords those lucky enough to possess one.
If you are a fan of deluxe vehicles, you’ll be intrigued by what makes this beauty such an automotive masterpiece.
Launch
The Rolls-Royce Wraith – a stunning grand tourer that has earned its place among the most prestigious automobiles in the world – made its debut in March 2013 at the Geneva Motor Show. The launch of the Wraith marked a significant moment in Rolls-Royce’s illustrious history, as it was the first time the company had introduced a two-door coupe in over three decades.
The Wraith was introduced as a new addition to the Rolls-Royce lineup, positioned as a slightly sportier and more dynamic model compared to the brand’s traditional saloons. It was essentially a coupe version of the Rolls-Royce Ghost, designed to cater to a different segment of luxury car enthusiasts – particularly those who sought a blend of elegance, power, and a sportier driving experience.
The brand name ‘Wraith’ refers to Rolls-Royce’s history, as they previously used it on a model in the late 1930s. The name is associated with an ethereal, ghostly presence, which was quite fitting for this luxurious and powerful coupe.
The Rolls-Royce Wraith’s debut garnered widespread attention and acclaim from automotive critics and luxury car enthusiasts. Many admired the vehicle’s striking design, innovative technology and exceptional craftsmanship that Rolls-Royce is renowned for.
The launch of the Wraith marked Rolls-Royce’s foray into a new era of luxury motoring, offering a more dynamic driving experience while maintaining the brand’s dedication to handcrafted opulence. Since its debut, the Wraith has continued to be a symbol of unparalleled luxury, and it remains a sought-after status symbol for those who appreciate the finest things in life.
Design
The Rolls-Royce Wraith is the embodiment of automotive artistry, and its design is nothing short of spectacular. This grand tourer exudes elegance and power from every angle – making a bold statement on the road.
Exterior Design
The Wraith’s exterior design is a combination of classic Rolls-Royce elements and contemporary touches. It boasts a signature chrome grille, flanked by modern LED headlights that seamlessly blend with the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy ornament. The long hood, pronounced shoulder line, and gracefully tapering roofline create a silhouette that’s both imposing and aerodynamic.
From the side, the Wraith’s sleek profile is accentuated by rear-hinged ‘suicide’ doors, which add to the sense of occasion and allow for easy access to the sumptuous interior. The standard 21-inch alloy wheels can be customised further, with larger options available.
Interior Design
Once inside the vehicle you will find an interior of unparalleled luxury – a veritable symphony of premium materials and exquisite craftsmanship.
The cabin is adorned with top-grade leather, wood and metal accents. Buyers can choose from a wide range of customisation options – from the type of wood veneer to the color and texture of the leather. This level of personalisation ensures that each Wraith is a unique masterpiece, tailored to the owner’s preferences.
The starlight headliner is a signature feature of the Wraith, which transforms the ceiling into a shimmering starry sky. It’s a touch of magic that sets this car apart from any other.
Comfort and Space
The Wraith is a 2+2 coupe, with spacious seating for four adults. The front seats offer a commanding view of the road and are supremely comfortable, with heating, ventilation and massage functions. In the rear, you’ll find individual seats that offer a high level of comfort and ample legroom.
Despite the sloping roofline, headroom in the back is quite generous, thanks to clever design. Passengers in the rear are not an afterthought; they enjoy the same level of luxury as those in the front.
Trunk Space
For a car of its size and style, the Rolls-Royce Wraith provides a surprisingly capacious trunk. With a volume of 16.6 cubic feet, it’s large enough to accommodate luggage for a weekend getaway.
Performance
Under the hood, the Rolls-Royce Wraith conceals a powerful and refined heart. This grand tourer delivers a driving experience that combines ample power with a whisper-quiet ride.
Engine and Power
The Wraith is equipped with a 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine that produces a staggering 624 horsepower and 605 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that seamlessly sends power to the rear wheels.
Acceleration is brisk for a car of this size, with the Wraith capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. The power delivery is silky-smooth and the engine purrs rather than roars, emphasising the refined character of the vehicle.
Ride and Handling
One of the Wraith’s standout features is its magic carpet ride. The air suspension and adaptive dampers work together to deliver a driving experience that is incredibly smooth and comfortable. It glides over rough pavement, ensuring that occupants are shielded from the outside world.
However, don’t mistake its comfort for a lack of agility. The Wraith boasts precise and responsive steering, and the adaptive air suspension can be adjusted to provide a more dynamic driving experience when desired. Overall, it’s a car that can easily transform from a serene cruiser to an engaging driver’s machine.
Driving Modes
The Wraith offers several driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Individual.
These modes allow the driver to tailor the car’s settings to their preferences. In Sport mode, the throttle response sharpens, the transmission holds gears longe, and the steering becomes more responsive.
Comfort mode, on the other hand, maximises the car’s renowned ride comfort.
Technology
Rolls-Royce may be synonymous with tradition and craftsmanship – but the Wraith is not lacking in terms of technology. It features a host of advanced systems designed to enhance comfort, convenience and safety.
Infotainment System
The centrepiece of the Wraith’s technology is the infotainment system – which includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. It’s compatible with Apple CarPlay and features a highly intuitive interface.
The system offers navigation, voice control and a 16-speaker Bespoke Audio System that provides an exceptional auditory experience.
Driver Assistance
Though the Wraith is primarily a grand tourer, it does come equipped with an suite of advanced driver assistance features.
These include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and a night vision system – which uses infrared technology to detect pedestrians and animals on the road.
Connectivity
In addition to the infotainment system, the Wraith offers wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot capability and a multimedia interface for the passengers sitting in the rear seats.
The technology in the Wraith is there to enhance the overall driving and riding experience for everyone in the vehicle – and it does it seamlessly and elegantly.
Ownership Experience
Owning a Rolls-Royce is not just about the car itself but also the unique experience that comes with it. The brand has cultivated a sense of exclusivity and prestige that extends beyond the vehicle.
Personalisation
One of the hallmarks of owning a Rolls-Royce is the level of personalisation available.
The brand’s Bespoke program allows customers to customise virtually every aspect of their vehicle, from paint colours to interior materials. This means that no two Wraiths are exactly alike and each one is a reflection of its owner’s individual tastes and preferences.
Concierge Services
Rolls-Royce offers a suite of concierge services designed to make ownership as effortless as possible. These services include scheduled maintenance, 24/7 roadside assistance and access to the Rolls-Royce concierge team, who can assist with a range of requests – from restaurant reservations to event planning.
Resale Value
Rolls-Royce vehicles have historically held their value well. While luxury cars often depreciate quickly, Rolls-Royce automobiles tend to retain their worth – especially in the pre-owned market. This is due in part to the brand’s enduring prestige and limited production runs.
Warranty
The Rolls-Royce Wraith comes with a four-year/unlimited-mileage warranty, which provides peace of mind to owners.
This coverage includes scheduled maintenance – so owners can enjoy their vehicle without worrying about the cost of servicing.
Price and Competition
The Rolls-Royce Wraith is a high-end luxury vehicle and as such, it comes with a commensurate price tag. The base price starts at around $330,000, but this is just the starting point.
Customisation options and additional features can significantly increase the final price, making each Wraith truly unique and exclusive. However, for those who can afford it, the experience of owning and driving a Wraith is unparalleled.
In the luxury grand tourer segment, the Rolls-Royce Wraith competes with a few notable rivals including the Aston Martin DB11, Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe and Bentley Continental GT.
Conclusion
Overall, the Rolls-Royce Wraith is the embodiment of automotive excellence. It seamlessly combines exquisite design, immense power, advanced technology and a level of personalsation that is unmatched in the automotive world.
Essentially, the grand tourer is not just a car; it’s a statement of success and an expression of individuality. From the moment you lay eyes on its iconic Spirit of Ecstasy emblem to the unparalleled comfort and elegance within, the Wraith offers an experience like no other. It provides the perfect balance of powerful performance and serene refinement, ensuring that your journeys are as memorable as the destinations themselves.
While the price of admission to the world of Rolls-Royce ownership is steep, it’s a price that reflects the exclusivity and craftsmanship that goes into each vehicle. The Wraith is not just a car; it’s a work of art, a symbol of success, and a testament to the enduring legacy of Rolls-Royce.
In the realm of luxury grand tourers, the Rolls-Royce Wraith stands proud, catering to those who demand the best of the best. It is a car that bridges the past and the present, offering a timeless design and state-of-the-art technology.
If you have the means and the desire for the ultimate in automotive luxury, the Rolls-Royce Wraith is a symbol of achievement and a vehicle that epitomises the pursuit of excellence.
