The next-generation Rolls-Royce Phantom has been spotted testing in China ahead of its official unveiling. The future model gets an all-new aluminium architecture and a refreshed exterior design, including headlights that look similar to those of the Rolls-Royce Ghost with a step in the lower edge of the light making way for the indicator strip. The car was spied testing earlier at multiple locations in Europe and North America exposing its exterior bits. This is the first occasion where the next-gen Phantom’s interior has been snapped while being on test in China. As seen from the spy shots, the car's design is an evolution of the current flagship model, making it instantly recognisable as a Phantom.
Similar to the outgoing car, the new Phantom features suicide door layout with the rear seats now positioned a bit higher than the front row in order to provide a better outside view to the rear passengers. Umbrellas are continued to be offered in the doors as well. The new car’s dashboard layout is expected to be traditionally styled with a subtle mix of the latest tech. The car is likely to continue with the analogue instrument clusters for the next gen as well.
On the outside, the 2018 Phantom gets a new full-width grille and new front bumper design featuring wider air vents that extend further out towards the car’s sides. At the rear, the bumper appears to protrude less than that of the outgoing Phantom, with a more flush design from the boot lid to the rear bumper. There are also more rounded tail lights.
Insiders expect the new car to feature one of two possible engines: a more powerful version of the current Phantom’s 6.75-litre V12 unit or a boosted version of the 6.6-litre V12 unit featured in the new Dawn.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Suraj Viswanathan
Hormazd Sorabjee
