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Rolls Royce Cullinan SUV
RR CULLINAN: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveil plans to top the luxury SUV market. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV is a 'family focused' model and set to cost upwards of £230,000.
The all-new Rolls-Royce Cullinan marks several 'firsts' for the British brand based in Westhampnett, Chichester. For Rolls-Royce it is:
- The first ever all-terrain Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV).
- The first of all Rolls-Royce models to use a tailgate.
- The first Rolls Royce model announced by the company to be 'family orientated'.
As expected, there are several different configurations to choose from. And, they all set new standards in a flourishing luxury SUV market.
Having achieved the pinnacle of luxury, it is an effortless, go-anywhere 4x4 off roader. Indeed, any Rolls Royce Cullinan SUV review would have to see it as an opulent voyage into luxury.
It displays all the usual signature Rolls-Royce motifs. There is no shortage of innovative features to enhance each journey. The Cullinan SUV is a mastery of crafts that create a new dimension in luxury adventure. In fact, Rolls Royce boast that the Cullinan 'changes the game'.
You cannot fail to appreciate the advanced chassis technology and aluminium spaceframe. They both combine in a superior fashion to handle all types of dramatic landscapes with ease and with intelligence.
The palatial suite of the Rolls Royce Cullinan SUV will take you beyond your comfort zone. At the same time, it will do so in uncompromised comfort. It spoils the driver and passengers - against all elements - in pure decadence and luxury.
Rolls Royce Cullinan Specifications
A closer review of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV reveals a shapely model. But, the sports utility is a tad smaller than many would expect from the prestige car maker.
The Cullinan measures 5,341mm - which is a mere 2mm longer than the Rolls Royce Ghost. Even so, it shapes up a full 216mm wider measuring 2164mm wide. But, the all-new Rolls Royce SUV car sits 80mm lower than a long wheelbase Range Rover version.
The design team took five years to develop the striking 'go big' style bodywork. The aim was not to be shy about it, but to produce a functional aesthetic look.
There is no mistaking the strong body lines. They did not fail to achieve a sense of sturdy capability and ultimate presence.
You cannot fail to notice the large grille either - appearing bigger than ever. In fact, it sits even further forward than the grille on the Rolls Royce Phantom.
The inset front lights display a purposeful 'tough brow' feeling about them. Whereas, the chrome surrounded rear lights are also inset but appear totally integrated with the powerful bodywork.
The Cullinan first started life as a booted SUV - in its preliminary design stage. But, the final product gets a two-stage tailgate and a collection of horizontal and vertical lines. The shrunken bustle at the rear gets partitioned by a glass panel in some of the top range Cullinan models.
The back section also gets an automated 'viewing suite'. Two seats can either fold or swing out of a cassette in the luggage area. In this mode, the seats rest over the rear bumper allowing for a handy perch to sit on.
Rolls Royce Cullinan SUV Interior and Trim
Many of the latest SUV 4x4 car models and crossovers boast large luggage areas. But, few of them can match the latest SUV from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. The Cullinan has a maximum load length of 2,245mm.
The luxury automobile keeps its 'family-friendly' format with a folding rear three-seat bench option. This allows for a maximum luggage capacity of 1,930 litres. All the rear seating options sit higher than the front seats, producing a 'pavillion' view forward.
In true Rolls-Royce style, it gets the usual collection of leathers, metals, and the very best woods.
Entry to the front and back compartment takes place via hinged coach doors. That means the doors clamp over the sills.
Note: It is a handy feature that prevents you getting dirty as you climb on board or get out of the vehicle.
You could argue that all Rolls-Royces get built 'primarily' for the driver. Well, the Cullinan SUV retains that theme.
The dash combines opulence and functionality. The layout features simple connections and a symmetrical facia.
The Rolls Royce Cullinan interior gets a version of the BMW iDrive infotainment system. As you would expect, all the latest technology is present and works as it should. The running specs include adaptive cruise control with a lane departure warning system. Another useful feature is the night vision with pedestrian and wildlife detection.
Cullinan SUV Engine and Chassis
The first SUV from Rolls Royce shares a lot with their flagship - the Phantom. Examples include the all-aluminium chassis and the ferocious 6.75-litre twin turbo V12 engine.
Special tuning on the V12 engine delivers 850Nm of torque from 1,600rpm. The RR official figures quote a peak power rating of 563bhp. Despite not a quoting 0-60mph time frame, it brags a top speed of 155mph.
The Cullinan displays all the right road manners. Four-wheel steering accompanies its 4 wheel drive characteristic.
It is difficult to imagine many Cullinan buyers worrying about the 18.8mpg average. Even fewer might be overly concerned about CO2 emissions of 341g/km. But, it seems electrification in mind with its Architecture of Luxury platform. As such, it will underpin all future Rolls-Royce models.
The chassis spotlights a double-wishbone front axle and five-link rear axle. Air suspension gets large air struts with more air volume. The advantage is a Rolls-Royce 'magic carpet ride' that even the best small SUV 4x4 cars struggle to offer on bumpy terrain. The car also drops down to 40mm for 'easy access' for anyone who is height disadvantaged.
You will find the 'Everywhere button' situated between the front seats. Engaging it changes the settings of the car for a serene ride - even on the most challenging of British road surfaces.
A camera located in the windscreen actually monitors the road surface. It adjusts the suspension according to the readings. The navigation system also prepares the gearbox for the terrain using its three-dimensional mapping. The Rolls Royce Cullinan SUV has a wading depth of 540mm. Thus, you can enjoy getting it wet using its highest ride height.
Rolls Royce Cullinan SUV Price Tag
Driving one of the most luxurious sports utility vehicles on the market does not come with a low price tag. As you may expect, costing from £230,000, the price is befitting of any Rolls-Royce SUV. But, car dealers expect the first deliveries to start heading out of the showrooms around the end of 2018.