The Dynamic Rolls

The new Wraith from the prestigious English carmaker is the most powerful model in the marque’s illustrious history

The Wraith is the world's first car to feature a satellite-aided transmission

There's some impressive technology at work here too. The Wraith is the world's first car to feature a satellite-aided transmission, in which the gearbox uses GPS data to sense if the car is approaching a bend, and alter its shift strategy accordingly, perhaps holding a lower gear for longer to save unnecessary shifting. The effect is subtle but convincing. In a Rolls-Royce technology shouldn't be 'apparent'; you're simply aware that the car feels smarter, calmer and more cooperative.

And of course, it is stunning inside and out, finished to a standard no other maker really gets close to. The designers will encourage you to play up the fastback coachwork with a two-tone paint finish, but the marque's bespoke service allows you to configure your Wraith any way you like, and it is certain that no two will ever be the same. Rolls-Royce is hugely popular in China, and many of the new trim stitchings and veneer finishes reflect that.

As with other Rolls-Royces, the Wraith doesn't really compete with other cars. If they have to make a choice, buyers might be weighing this against another racehorse or home or helicopter. But in this case, there really is no competition; there simply isn't another car like this on the road.

SCORECARD

How much? HK$5.9 million
Engine: 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged V12 624bhp
Transmission: 8-speed automatic ZF
Performance: 0-100kph in 4.4secs, 250kph (governed)
How heavy? 2,360kgs

There simply isn't another car like this on the road

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Written by Ben Oliver

Click here to see the published article.

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