Overview
Rolls-Royce is widely recognized as a coachbuilder of ultraluxurious rides for ultrawealthy folks, and its entry-level model, the Ghost, only bolsters that reputation. The model’s styling has evolved for the 2021 model year, but it still looks quite handsome. Unlike the last generation, which shared its underpinnings with the more mainstream BMW 7-series, the new Ghost rolls on the same Architecture of Luxury that’s used in the Phantom sedan and Cullinan SUV. Power-operated doors provide access to the cabin—a retreat lined with some of the finest materials in autodom. The interior also offers generous space for both front- and rear-seat passengers to relax in comfort.
What’s New for 2021?
The 2021 Ghost is new from the ground up and comes packed with fancier appointments and more modern technology than before.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
- Ghost: $315,000 (est.)
Despite being the entry-level model, the Ghost will still be out of reach of most new-car buyers. The list of standard and optional equipment will certainly be long, but we’ll have to wait until closer to the Ghost’s on-sale date to determine how we’d spec it. We expect the sedan to offer a similar level of personalization options as the rest of the Rolls-Royce lineup, though; the only question is how much you’re willing to spend.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Despite its massive overhaul for 2021, the Ghost is powered by a familiar engine. Under the sedan’s long hood is a 563-hp 6.7-liter V-12 that is shared with the Cullinan SUV. An eight-speed automatic handles shifting duties, and all-wheel drive is standard. According to Rolls-Royce, the 2021 Ghost is capable of hitting 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, and we’re looking forward to verifying that claim at our test track. Rolls-Royce also boasts that the new Ghost offers a sharper driving demeanor than the last model, pointing to the all-wheel-steering system and 50/50 weight distribution as evidence that driving satisfaction played a significant role in the car’s development. We expect the Ghost will continue to provide a peerless ride, particularly given its standard adaptive suspension that employs a road-scanning camera to help the vehicle anticipate and compensate for potholes.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn’t released fuel-economy estimates for the 2021 model yet, but if the 2020 Ghost is anything to go by, this won’t be much of a fuel sipper. Once we get a chance, we’ll put the Ghost through our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test and update this story with results.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Like the cabin of any Rolls-Royce, the new Ghost is opulent inside, with every surface, knob, switch, and lever crafted from quality materials. Trying to stand out from competitors like the Bentley Flying Spur and the Mercedes-Benz S-class, Rolls-Royce has pulled out all the stops. Think thick carpet, finely grained leather, real wood and metal accents, and even an available headliner with tiny integrated LEDs to simulate a starlit sky. An illuminated dashboard inlay glows when the driver turns on the Ghost, adding to the starry-night ambiance. The best seat in the house will be the rear, where passengers are treated to such luxuries as massaging seats, an entertainment system, and acres of legroom.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Along with providing a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Ghost features a large infotainment touchscreen with in-dash navigation. Though not confirmed, we expect it will also include both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces. A dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system allows passengers to adjust the radio, input destinations into the nav, and more. Rolls-Royce also supplies an 18-speaker Bespoke stereo system with 1300 watts of power and magnesium-ceramic speaker cones.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are unlikely to perform crash tests on such a low-volume high-dollar ride, Rolls-Royce has stepped up its driver-assistance game with the 2021 Ghost. The outgoing model offered few such features, but the new one has made leaps and bounds in this category. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control with a semi-autonomous driving mode
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Like the rest of the Rolls-Royce lineup, the new Ghost will come with a four-year warranty and maintenance package, which doesn’t expire at a certain mileage limit.
- Limited warranty covers four years or unlimited miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or unlimited miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for four years or unlimited miles