World’s Most Opulent 2-Door, Phantom Coupe, Debuting in Geneva

Phantom Photos

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2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe Image 1
2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe Image 2

Rolls-Royce is offering yet another twist on its Phantom lineup following last year’s convertible – the new Phantom Coupe. Essentially the hardtop version of the Drophead, with the more aerodynamic, wind-swept nose, it retains the rear-hinged doors and picnic deck lid that were first seen on the convertible.

The Phantom Coupe is how Rolls-Royce does sport. It’s got a stiffer suspension setup than the sedan or the convertible, and it actually has a slightly rear-biased weight distribution of 49:51, something you’re more likely to find in a Ferrari or a Maserati than a Roller. There’s even a sport mode for the transmission – unheard of in a Rolls-Royce – to keep the 453 horsepower six and three quarters liter V12 on boil. And although at over 18 feet, the Rolls-Royce is neither dainty nor agile, it should be the most fun you can have in a Phantom to date thanks to a reworked steering setup that offers better feedback.

Designed to offer nothing less that the utmost comfort for rear-seat passengers, the Phantom Coupe delivers accommodating rear quarters with a two-seat rear bench that’s actually more like a couch. One of the 101 EX’s concept-like touches is the starlit roofliner which uses hundreds of LEDs to create the image of a star-filled sky. As with all other Rolls-Royces, the Phantom Coupe is available with the Bespoke program, which offers buyers the ability to custom build their Rolls-Royce to their exact specifications, including 44,000 different exterior colors.

The production Phantom Coupe will make its world debut in Geneva shortly, and Rolls-Royce will begin building it this autumn.