As the world is changing at a rapid pace, the epicentres of wealth are also no longer adhering to the norm. The average age of the Rolls-Royce buyer is 43 and that has also influenced the range of cars that the Goodwood-based luxury car-maker now produces. The Black Badge range is the result of Rolls-Royce welcoming the slightly rebellious new-age luxury connoisseur into its family along with sharpening its line-up of luxury cars.
Make no mistake – Rolls-Royce remains the ultimate luxury car. But the Ghost Black Badge is the sort of car with its sleeves rolled up. It's the most dynamic Rolls-Royce and also a new kind of offering with the agenda of having the owner driving the car rather than being chauffeured.
With a gigantic V12 engine nestled beneath that bonnet, the Ghost Black Badge is an intriguing driver's car with up-to 600 horsepower delivered in a calm but repressive manner. The Ghost Black Badge certainly has the volume turned up slightly, especially with the 'low' button situated on the gear selector stalk, which is a curated feast of the dynamic prowess being rustled up in an instant.
Pressing this button results in the gearshift getting sharper along with a slightly louder exhaust while more torque is served much earlier in the rev range. It's a fast motor car beneath the confines of the values that Rolls-Royce has always championed. Comfort, silence and luxury is what comes to mind when you think of this British brand but the Ghost Black Badge adds a menacing touch to that.
The all-black paint is a thing to behold in terms of its sheer quality with as many as 45kgs of paint being lavished on the car along with being hand polished. There is a hand-made coachline which runs across the side along with special carbon fibre wheels which together creates an alluring mix of sportiness and traditional luxury. While one can choose from over 45,000 shades, the black paint scheme really adds to the presence of this car. It sits lower and has a more accessible personality in comparison to the more upright Ghost or Phantom.
The same thought philosophy is carried over to the inside with multiple wood layers along with carbon/metal being delicately draped all over. The veneer has six layers of lacquer along with being hand polished. Bright chrome is shunned for darkened materials and colours.
The ambience is further enhanced with an illuminated fascia which is festooned with LEDs, thus recreating a starry sky. Even the 'Shooting Star Starlight Headliner' has a twinkling effect. Customers can let their imagination run wild and ask for nearly anything that they wish for with unlimited customization options. Modern day luxury amenities are kept to the minimum with less technological distractions to create a lounge like atmosphere.
Rolls-Royce had envisioned its Black Badge range to be fairly popular, but it has been surprising as to how quickly it has become a big favourite with its ever evolving clientele. For us, the Ghost Black Badge is a welcome departure from the norm while adhering to the values that make Rolls-Royce different from others.
