The Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe - Driving

The Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe on the Move

The objective of the Phantom Coupé engineering team was to create a driving experience that was entirely true to Rolls-Royce, yet noticeably more dynamic. The resulting balance of agility and refinement, however, surprised even those closest to the project.

Smoothness of ride is still exceptional, yet has been made a little firmer by the introduction of stiffer rear dampers and modified spring rates. Body roll is reduced by fitting a thicker rear anti-roll bar and the steering has been tuned to offer more feel – a sensation enhanced by a slightly thicker, hand-stitched leather steering wheel.

The suspension and chassis tune mean that the power is put down on the road incredibly effectively. Outstanding grip means that the dynamic stability control (DSC) is less likely to be activated under enthusiastic cornering, making it feel more balanced when pushing on.

A sport button on the steering wheel activates a new gearbox programme. Each gear is held for longer, increasing the rate of acceleration. Kick-down is also faster and accelerator pedal response has been enhanced.

Together these individual changes to the car’s set-up give a substantially more dynamic feel than the Phantom and Phantom Drophead Coupé. In combination with the effortless power that is always on tap, the new state of tune makes driving the Phantom Coupé not only pleasurable but also exhilarating. With a limited top speed of 155 mph / 250 km/h, the Coupé accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds.

The Coupé’s wheelbase is 250 mm shorter than that of the Phantom, giving greater agility. Its 49:51 weight ratio ensures that it remains beautifully balanced through corners, while the slight rear weight bias maximises straight-line acceleration and traction. Self-levelling air suspension continuously adjusts to driving conditions, enabling drivers to place the car accurately through bends. The steering has modified Servotronic assistance to provide increased road feel.

The extreme rigidity of the Coupé’s chassis gives magnificent control and precision. The front double-wishbone suspension features a hydraulic mount to minimise vibrations through the steering wheel, while multi-link rear suspension gives increased ride comfort, with anti-lift and anti-dive technology for stability under heavy acceleration and braking. This combines with the stronger rear anti-roll bar and stiffer spring and damper settings to increase both accuracy and agility.

As standard, the Phantom Coupé has 21-inch Goodyear tyres with run-flat capability, sitting on seven-spoke aluminium or two different styles of forged aluminium rims. In the unfortunate event of a flat tyre, the Coupé can run for at least 100 miles / 160 km at speeds of up to 50 mph / 80 km/h before the tyre has to be replaced. As well as being convenient, this run-flat technology negates the need for spare wheels and a jack, freeing up space in the luggage compartment. The Coupé’s 100-litre fuel tank allows for the longer drives that its character encourages, giving a range of around 400 miles / 630 km.

Braking is provided by massive 374 mm / 14.7 in ventilated disc brakes at the front and 370 mm / 14.6 in at the rear. Twin piston alloy calipers at the front and single piston calipers at the rear ensure that the Coupé is brought to a stop quickly and without drama. Naturally, the braking system incorporates the latest in anti-lock systems and Emergency Brake Assist is activated under heavy braking, applying full force in an emergency stop.