Rolls-Royce Cullinan Expert Review

This Series II version gets subtle but effective design tweaks, including slimmer headlamps with vertical LED DRLs and a cleaner bumper layout. The Black Badge version ups the drama with dark chrome replacing traditional brightwork, blacked-out badges, and optional 23-inch two-tone wheels that expose the calipers for added aggression. It’s bold, extravagant, and unapologetically attention-grabbing.

Inside, the Cullinan is just as opulent. While buyers can opt for muted tones, Rolls-Royce encourages vibrant interior colourways — yellows, purples, blues — that contrast with piano black or dark metallic trim exclusive to the Black Badge. Build quality is impeccable, from stitching to trim alignment. The updated dashboard design adds presence, and the customisation possibilities have expanded.

Under the hood lies a 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 that now produces 600hp and 900Nm in Black Badge spec. While this power isn't overt in everyday driving, a press of the ‘Low’ button sharpens the response and reveals a restrained growl. Deactivating it returns the car to its default, hushed and serene state. This dual character — potent yet polished — is quintessential Rolls-Royce.

Fuel efficiency remains secondary to refinement and performance. As expected from a large V12 SUV, mileage is not a highlight, and no significant gains are made with this update. The Rolls Royce Cullinan mileage is rated at 6.2kpl on the WLTP cycle.

Despite its size and weight, the Cullinan manages to feel approachable behind the wheel. Rear-axle steering, high seating, and well-defined edges aid manoeuvrability. While it’s no sports SUV, it delivers exceptional composure and comfort across surfaces, maintaining the brand’s signature "magic carpet ride."

The Series II brings enhanced personalisation inside and out, and options are expectedly expensive. For example, the optional ‘Sanctuary’ rear seat package brings two luxurious captain chairs, a fridge, and a luggage compartment partition, all in a cavernous space thanks to a 3.3m wheelbase, and the LED starlight headliner now features shooting stars that streak across at random.

With prices starting at Rs 10.33 crore (and Rs 11.92 crore for the Black Badge), the Cullinan is a bold, luxurious, and extravagant pivot into the SUV segment. Its appeal is undeniable —monumental presence, unmatched comfort, and bespoke craftsmanship make it the reigning monarch of ultra-luxury SUVs.