It isn’t every day that Rolls-Royce rolls out a new model, let alone the start of a new lineup of cars. In fact, the most luxurious luxury brand on the planet hasn’t had an entirely new model (based on a new platform), since 2003. Sure, there have been the Coupé and Drophead Coupé, but both of those models are based on the Phantom’s underpinnings.

The company’s latest model, the Ghost, has just been officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show. With definite Phantom design cues, the Ghost is a slightly smaller vehicle, but that’s not saying much.

It is, by all accounts, incredibly large and has an engine to match. Powered by a 6.6-liter V12, the Ghost makes 563hp and 575 ft-lbs of torque at just 1500 rpm. Using a new eight-speed automatic transmission the Ghost will be able to hit 62 mph in just 4.8 seconds.

The Ghost will be available with a very long list of standard an optional equipment, including rear-seat LCD screens with fold out tables and, of course, umbrellas in the doors.

Rolls-Royce is expected to follow the same product development strategy with the Ghost as with the Phantom, so expect to hear rumors of both a coupe and a convertible starting soon.

GALLERY: 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost

Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…

Rolls-Royce has just released the full list of specs on the upcoming Ghost model and the numbers are impressive. The most regal of automakers has always been known for powerful and luxurious cars but judging from the numbers just released by Rolls, this luxury sedan will scream down the highway like a raving banshee.

Powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.6-liter V12 engine, the Ghost will make 563hp at 5250 rpm and 575 ft-lbs of torque at just 1500 rpm. Despite what will do-doubt be an immense curb weight the “entry-level” Rolls will use an 8-speed automatic transmission to hit 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Interestingly, Rolls-Royce says it will achieve 4.7 seconds in markets outside North America, but gives no reason why that is. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

“First and foremost Ghost is a Rolls-Royce. This means that despite its extraordinary performance figures it has been engineered for effortless composure and refined power delivery,” said Rolls’ Director of Engineering, Helmut Riedl. “This is illustrated by the significant levels of low down torque available which makes pulling away very smooth and for an exceptionally relaxed driving experience.”

Deliveries of the £165,000 ($272,000) Ghost will begin in the U.K. and Europe later this year with deliveries in North America, Asia and the rest of the world in the second quarter of 2010.

Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…