It’s been a while since we last saw Rolls Royce
testing the next-gen Ghost, but our spies had the chance to snap a few shots of
a fully camouflaged test car lapping the Nurburgring. The Phantom’s smaller sibling
isn’t going to redefine what a Rolls Royce should look like, opting instead to
refine the design of the current Ghost with just a few styling changes,
including a set of more modern headlights and taillights, a stronger shoulder
line and a slightly slippery shape.
The rear-hinged suicide doors will be retained,
offering comfortable access for passengers and that theatricality you’ve come
to expect from a Rolls Royce. The biggest change for the next-generation Ghost is the
underpinnings, as Rolls Royce opted for its own aluminum platform, ditching the
7-Series architecture of the current model. The new platform will improve the
2021 Ghost in terms of body rigidity and refinement.
The aluminum structure is also said to make the
next-generation Ghost lighter and compatible with a 48-volt electrical
architecture that’s necessary for both some mild-hybridisation and running
chassis systems like active anti-roll bars and all-wheel steering.
Power is expected to be provided by an updated
version of the twin-turbo 6.6-liter V12 engine, paired to a buttery-smooth
eight-speed automatic transmission. Reports suggest that all-wheel drive will
also be present, at least as an option.
The interior will follow Rolls Royce’s tradition in
terms of design, featuring strict lines and expensive materials. However, the
new Ghost will also get a much needed injection of onboard tech; this includes
a digital instrument cluster, a bigger infotainment screen, a larger head-up
display and the latest in active safety systems.
The second generation Rolls Royce Ghost is scheduled
for a reveal sometime next year as a 2021 model.
