2023 Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II—Forget the Chauffeur

I recently had the opportunity to spend an hour behind the wheel of the 2023 Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II, and it was an experience that left me utterly captivated. In that short span of time, I came to understand why the Phantom is truly in a league of its own among luxury automobiles. As I drove, I found myself repeating, “Oh, I get it.” The Phantom is not just a car; it’s an unparalleled experience that defies convention and deserves to be savored by anyone with an appreciation for automotive excellence.

A Glimpse of Luxury Evolution: Rolls-Royce has chosen not to use the typical automotive terminology for updates, opting instead for “Phantom Series II” for 2023. The changes from the previous series are subtle yet significant, including an illuminated Pantheon grille, laser-cut starlight patterns in the new headlight bezels, and an updated art gallery dashboard that adds a touch of modernity to the cabin’s opulent setting.

Visual Grandeur: Photographs may not fully capture the Phantom’s allure, but in person, it commands attention like nothing else on the road. Its sheer size and imposing presence immediately convey that this is no ordinary car. Every aspect of its design, from the impeccable paint quality to the choice of materials and its commanding stance on the road, screams exclusivity and sophistication.

Luxury for the Driver: A common misconception is that the Rolls-Royce Phantom is solely meant to be driven by chauffeurs. However, as I took the wheel, I quickly realized that the Phantom treats the driver as the primary occupant, regardless of who is at the controls. It cocooned me in a cocoon of comfort and luxury, transforming the act of driving into an indulgent pleasure. It’s often said that a true luxury car leaves you feeling more refreshed after a long drive than when you started, and in this regard, the Rolls-Royce Phantom excels above all others.

Effortless Performance: Driving the Phantom on winding canyon roads, I marveled at how effortless it felt. While other cars, including high-performance BMWs, made the mountain roads feel like a demanding challenge, the Phantom turned them into a serene, almost leisurely journey. Its ability to iron out imperfections in the road is astonishing, and it genuinely feels like it erases bumps from existence.

An Unexpected Kind of Fun: The Rolls-Royce Phantom may not fit the traditional definition of a “fun” car to drive, with its slow steering ratio and deliberate handling characteristics. However, this is by design. Rolls-Royce wants the driver to make deliberate inputs, in line with the vehicle’s character. Once you adapt to its unique driving style, you’ll discover that it offers surprising accuracy and ease of placement.

Despite its plush ride and slow steering, the Phantom can be a source of unexpected enjoyment on twisty roads. It remains composed thanks to Rolls-Royce’s air suspension and benefits from rear-wheel steering, making it surprisingly agile for a car of its size and weight.

Effortless Power: Under the Phantom’s imposing hood resides a 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. While the power figures are impressive, what truly sets it apart is how seamlessly the engine delivers its power. Inside the cabin, it’s virtually silent, with effortless torque delivery reminiscent of an electric car, albeit with a more traditional feel.

In hindsight, an electric powertrain would be a perfect fit for the Phantom, given how quietly and smoothly the current engine operates. The next-generation Phantom is set to embrace electric power, a move that makes perfect sense.

A Cabin Beyond Compare: Stepping into the Phantom’s cabin is an experience like no other. Every surface, switch, and touchpoint exudes luxury and quality. Even in a relatively standard interior specification, the Phantom outshines all other cars on the road in terms of build quality. The craftsmanship of the woodwork, the durability and premium feel of the metal accents, and the discreet integration of technology, including BMW’s latest drive, all contribute to a sense of understated opulence.

A Return to Simplicity: The Phantom stands in stark contrast to modern luxury cars that bombard occupants with technology and distractions. Its cabin is serene and uncluttered, with screens that can be discreetly concealed, analog-style gauges, and a timeless analog cabin clock. If you prefer a driving experience free from modern distractions, the Phantom caters to your desires.

Embrace the Driver’s Seat: My brief encounter with the 2023 Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II left me longing for more. While many Phantom owners choose to employ chauffeurs, I wholeheartedly encourage them to take the wheel themselves. The Phantom offers a driving experience unlike any other, one that should not be missed. Forget the chauffeur; embrace the driver’s seat and savor the unique blend of luxury, comfort, and serenity that only the Phantom can provide. It’s an experience that will leave you yearning for the open road and the pleasure of driving this remarkable automobile.