Behind the HYPE: How the Rolls-Royce Phantom Became the Final Word in Automotive Luxury
One of the very few cars where you’d prefer to be in the back seat.
For our latest episode of Behind the HYPE, we’re looking at the epitome of excess, class, status and luxury – the Rolls-Royce Phantom, a car that is often imitated but impossible to replicate.
The Phantom is the ultimate luxury limousine from British automaker Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited, which was acquired by BMW in 1998 to operate and recognized separately from the cars made previously within the century. In 2003, the new company under BMW produced the Phantom as its first vehicle, to worldwide acclaim and fame. Its adoption into pop culture cemented it as the pinnacle of automotive luxury, with never-before-seen amenities, technological features that seemed like sci-fi, a sumptuous ride akin to private jets and, surprisingly, powerful performance as well. Royalty, rappers, and anyone with rich pockets depended on the “Double R” to chauffeur them around town, transport from home to airports, or just go out for a romantic dinner in any given metropolis.
Owners will tell you that stepping inside a Rolls Royce Phantom is not unlike the experiences of the universe: beyond the welcoming suicide doors that open left and right, you’re greeted with a mix of fine materials from wood and Connolly leather to metals and Alcantara, while sensory-shocking visuals like an LED-lit headliner that simulates constellations and a refrigerator stocked with champagne treat your eyes and tastebuds to the unexpected. The backseats engulf you with pillow-like cushions and support, while your feet float above the ground from the fully-reclining seats. For those who need work done, a fold out table tray allows for a seamless transition from office to where ever, or if you’re looking to unwind, the Phantom comes standard with passenger touchscreens for video, live-TV, navigation and more. And all of this is with an occupant sitting in the back – the front seats are a whole other story.
There’s so much more to the Rolls-Royce Phantom – check out our latest episode of Behind the HYPE above and in case you missed it, we also delved into the historical importance of the Porsche 911.
