The Rolls Royce Cullinan, the marque’s first foray into the 4×4 market, has made a significant statement. This ultra-luxury SUV offers unparalleled opulence combined with surprising off-road capability. This article delves into the Cullinan’s design, interior, practicality, performance, and cost, providing a comprehensive overview of this remarkable vehicle.
Design and Exterior: A Commanding Presence
The Cullinan’s design is undeniably imposing, reflecting its Rolls Royce heritage. Its substantial dimensions, bold aluminum body panels, and distinctive front grille command attention. While sharing similarities with the Bentley Bentayga, the Cullinan’s high-riding stance feels more natural within the Rolls Royce family. The iconic Spirit of Ecstasy, available in metal or frosted glass, graces the long bonnet, adding a touch of theatre to every journey. A vast array of customizable color options allows for ultimate personalization.
Luxurious Interior: An Oasis of Opulence
Stepping inside the Cullinan is an experience in itself. Rear-hinged doors reveal a lavish cabin swathed in lambswool carpets and the finest leathers. Open-pore wood veneers add to the sense of handcrafted luxury. While embracing the Cullinan’s utilitarian purpose, Rolls Royce introduces a new “box grain” black leather on the dashboard, inspired by Leica camera cases, providing a touch of ruggedness. Heated seats and armrests, along with signature Rolls Royce umbrellas, further enhance the experience.
Practicality: Surprisingly Versatile
The Cullinan breaks new ground for Rolls Royce in terms of practicality. Designed for active lifestyles, it accommodates various needs, from family outings to country pursuits. Wide-opening doors and a lowering air suspension facilitate easy entry and exit. Thoughtful touches like protected sills prevent mud from soiling clothes. A spacious rear compartment offers two seating configurations: a three-person bench or two individual seats separated by a refrigerated console housing champagne flutes and whisky tumblers. A glass partition can isolate the rear passengers from the luggage area when the split tailgate is open. The expansive boot offers ample storage space, further enhanced by folding rear seats and a configurable floor.
Driving Experience: Effortless Power and Serenity
The Cullinan delivers the signature Rolls Royce “waftability” – a supremely smooth and effortless ride. The advanced suspension isolates occupants from road imperfections, ensuring a serene journey. Exceptional sound insulation minimizes engine and road noise. Despite its size, the Cullinan handles surprisingly well, aided by clear visibility and a suite of parking cameras. Off-road capabilities are enhanced by four-wheel drive, hill descent control, and ample ground clearance. Selectable off-road modes optimize traction for various terrains.
Performance: Majestic Power Delivery
The Cullinan’s 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 engine produces 563 horsepower, providing effortless acceleration and ample torque for its substantial weight. Power delivery is seamless and refined, making for a truly majestic driving experience. The braking system is equally impressive, bringing the Cullinan to a halt with remarkable composure.
Ownership Costs: The Price of Exclusivity
Owning a Rolls Royce Cullinan comes at a significant cost. The base price is just the starting point, with a vast array of customization options adding considerably to the final figure. Features like the glass partition, viewing suite, and bespoke picnic hampers can easily inflate the price. Running costs, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, are also substantial. Depreciation is another factor to consider.
Reliability and Safety: Built to Last
Rolls Royce’s meticulous engineering and assembly processes contribute to the Cullinan’s expected reliability. Sharing components with parent company BMW further enhances dependability. Safety features abound, including multiple airbags, collision mitigation systems, lane departure warning, and driver alertness monitoring. While an official NCAP safety rating is unlikely due to low production volume, the Cullinan’s robust construction and advanced safety technologies inspire confidence.
Equipment: A Bespoke Experience
The Cullinan boasts a comprehensive array of equipment, including a high-resolution heads-up display, BMW’s intuitive infotainment system, multiple USB charging points, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the absence of Apple CarPlay is a notable omission. Options include massaging seats, rear picnic tables, touchscreen tablets, and a bespoke audio system. Rolls Royce encourages personalization, with virtually every customer specifying their vehicle with unique extras.
Conclusion: The Pinnacle of Luxury SUVs
The Rolls Royce Cullinan redefines the luxury SUV segment, offering an unparalleled blend of opulence, capability, and craftsmanship. While its price tag places it beyond the reach of most, the Cullinan represents the pinnacle of automotive luxury and serves as a statement of ultimate success.
