When one demands the most opulent luxury sedan on the market, the linked "RR" logo of Rolls Royce should quickly come to mind. The 2009 Rolls Royce Phantom sedan and extended wheelbase sedan embody the height of motoring luxury, with hand-built craftsmanship and features not heard of in other motor cars.
The Phantom's appearance is one of opulent heritage blended with modern innovation. Classic design features such as the long hood, stately grille, and large C-pillars are met with technological elements such as the power closing rear coach doors, and power retracting "Spirit of Ecstasy" logo. Buyers can choose from 15 standard colors, or 45,000 bespoke, or custom colors, allowing buyers to put a very personal touch on their particular Phantom.
The Phantom is powered by a 6.75-liter V12, generating 453 horsepower and 531 pound feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission that normally starts in second gear for smooth acceleration. However, if you need a quick takeoff, the "Low" button can shift the transmission to a first gear start, rocketing the over 5600-pound sedan from zero to sixty in under six seconds.
Fuel economy for the Phantom ranges from 11 miles per gallon city, up to 18 miles per gallon highway.
Occupants of the Phantom will be primarily interested in back seat comforts, and these sumptuous sedans offer a seemingly endless list of luxury features. Our extended wheelbase model came equipped with a center chiller compartment for wine and champagne, large 12-inch LCD television and video monitors that fold from the seatbacks, and a Lexicon 15 speaker sound system, with 2 subwoofers and a 6-disc CD/DVD player.
Another fascinating amenity unique to Rolls Royce is the umbrella stored within each coach door. The holster for this umbrella has small holes and is connected to a fan so that the umbrella can be stowed away wet, and quickly dry while stored in the door.
Standard safety features include 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, and a full array of front and side impact airbags.
Initial base MSRP for the 2009 Rolls Royce Phantom is $350,000. A fully loaded extended wheelbase model can cost as much as $500,000. The Phantom comes with 4 years of free roadside assistance. In addition, one push of the SOS button will get you a specialty concierge service that will be of assistance not only in the very rare event of a break down, but also when seeking a stylish location at which to dine.
With luxury features fit for a king, a potent, yet refined powerplant, and a classic, yet innovative design, the 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom is truly a luxury sedan without equal.