Rolls Royce Phantom
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for the ultimate expression of automotive luxury? The Rolls-Royce Phantom might be exactly what you’re seeking. This flagship ultra-luxury saloon represents the absolute pinnacle of British craftsmanship, offering an unmatched level of refinement, presence, and exclusivity that defines what it means to travel in true splendour. It’s the car for those who demand nothing less than perfection in every detail.

From the moment you see it, the Phantom commands attention like no other vehicle on the road. Its imposing proportions and iconic design language make even rivals like the Bentley Mulsanne or Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class seem understated by comparison. But the real magic happens when you experience the interior. The cabin is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring hand-crafted materials, bespoke detailing, and technology that feels more like a private jet than a traditional car.

Driving the Phantom is a serene experience unlike anything else on four wheels. The famous 6.75-litre V12 engine delivers effortless power while remaining whisper-quiet, making every journey feel like floating on air. It handles with surprising grace for such a substantial vehicle, providing confidence and comfort whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising at motorway speeds. While it commands a price that reflects its status as automotive royalty, you’re investing in a piece of history that represents the finest luxury saloon engineering has to offer.

How Does the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drive?

The Rolls-Royce Phantom is powered by a magnificent 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 563 horsepower. This powerplant delivers performance that feels effortless rather than aggressive, with 0-60 mph achieved in just 5.3 seconds despite the car’s substantial weight. The engine note is deliberately subdued, creating what Rolls-Royce calls “the whisper of power” that defines the driving experience. Every aspect of the powertrain is tuned for smoothness and refinement above all else.

Where the Phantom truly excels is in its ride quality and handling composure. The air suspension system adapts continuously to road conditions, virtually eliminating imperfections from reaching the cabin. The steering is precise yet light, making this large saloon surprisingly manageable in tight spaces. At motorway speeds, the Phantom feels unshakeable, with exceptional stability and virtually no wind or road noise penetrating the meticulously insulated cabin. This creates an almost supernatural sense of serenity that no other manufacturer can quite match.

Inside the Rolls-Royce Phantom: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Phantom and you enter a world of unparalleled luxury and craftsmanship. Every surface is covered in the finest materials, from hand-stitched leather seats to real wood veneers and polished metal accents. The attention to detail is extraordinary, with elements like the Spirit of Ecstasy motorised bonnet ornament and the coach doors that close with a satisfying thunk. The dashboard features the Gallery, a glass-enclosed space where owners can display bespoke artwork or personal items.

The seating comfort is simply sublime, with throne-like chairs that offer endless adjustment and massage functions. Rear passengers are treated like royalty, with individual climate zones, entertainment screens, and a champagne cooler as standard. The cabin is so quiet that Rolls-Royce measures sound levels rather than just relying on subjective testing. Standard equipment includes a premium sound system, satellite navigation, and connectivity features, though the emphasis remains firmly on traditional luxury rather than cutting-edge technology.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom stands as the ultimate expression of automotive luxury, delivering an experience that transcends mere transportation. Its combination of exquisite craftsmanship, supreme comfort, and effortless performance creates something truly special that competitors struggle to match. The build quality and attention to detail justify its position at the apex of the luxury car market, offering owners a sense of occasion that never diminishes. The main considerations are the substantial running costs and the car’s size in urban environments. It’s not a vehicle for those seeking sporty handling or fuel efficiency, but that’s entirely beside the point. The Phantom exists to provide the finest possible motoring experience, wrapped in centuries of British heritage and craftsmanship. For those who can afford it and appreciate automotive artistry at its finest, the Phantom represents the pinnacle of what’s possible when cost is no object.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Rolls-Royce Phantom?

As the pinnacle of luxury motoring, the Phantom comes with appropriately premium running costs. Fuel economy averages around 18-21 mpg in real-world conditions, which reflects both the large V12 engine and the car’s substantial weight. Insurance costs will be significant, falling into the highest groups due to the car’s value and expensive repair costs. However, these considerations are secondary for most Phantom owners, who prioritise the experience over economy.

The initial purchase price starts at around £400,000, positioning it firmly in the ultra-luxury segment. Maintenance must be carried out by Rolls-Royce specialists, and the bespoke nature of many components means servicing costs are substantial. However, the build quality is exceptional, and many Phantoms become cherished family heirlooms passed down through generations. For those considering luxury car finance, flexible payment plans can make ownership more accessible while preserving capital for other investments.

Is the Rolls-Royce Phantom Practical for Everyday Use?

Despite its focus on luxury, the Phantom is surprisingly practical for such an exclusive vehicle. The 548-litre boot easily accommodates luggage for extended trips, with a low loading lip making it easy to load heavy items. The rear seats offer limousine-like space, with enough room for tall adults to stretch out completely. Storage compartments throughout the cabin provide space for personal items, phones, and travel essentials without compromising the clean interior aesthetic.

The Phantom’s size does present some urban challenges, measuring over 5.9 metres in length. Parking in city centres requires careful planning, though the excellent visibility and parking sensors help with manoeuvring. For families who value ultimate luxury, the Phantom provides a serene environment for long journeys, making it ideal for those who frequently travel between residences or conduct business on the move. Compared to other used Rolls-Royce cars, the Phantom offers the most space and presence in the range.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom represents the absolute pinnacle of luxury motoring, combining centuries of British craftsmanship with modern engineering excellence. It delivers an unmatched ownership experience that goes far beyond simple transportation, offering instead a mobile sanctuary of comfort, refinement, and prestige. The hand-built construction, bespoke customisation options, and legendary reliability make it a worthy investment for those who demand the very best.

You choose the Phantom when you want the finest luxury car ever created, regardless of price. Its imposing presence, whisper-quiet cabin, and effortless performance make every journey memorable. It’s perfectly suited for those who appreciate automotive artistry and want to own a piece of motoring history. If you’re considering the ultimate expression of luxury motoring, the Phantom should be your only choice, especially with cars under £500,000 offering exceptional value for such exclusivity.