2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost-- Video Test Drive and Review with Chris Moran

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2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost-- Video Test Drive and Review by Chris Moran


The 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost is the latest model to come from this storied manufacturer, and it's positioned as the brand's entry-level vehicle. At a quarter-million dollars worth of starting price, that's quite a misnomer. But considering its Phantom sibling will set you back $380,000 and its namesake forebears -- the 1906-'26 Silver Ghosts -- are typically valued in the millions, perhaps the new Ghost is a relative bargain.

The 2010 Ghost is all but guaranteed to embody class-leading performance and comfort. True, it is based on a BMW 760Li (BMW owns Rolls-Royce), but Rolls says the Ghost only shares about 20 percent of its construction with the big BMW. Rolls-Royce is also quick to point out that everything you see and touch is all-new and exclusive to the brand. As with all Rolls-Royce vehicles, the new Ghost surrounds occupants in top-notch luxury and unmistakable style. Attention to detail and craftsmanship border on the obsessive.

Back in the old days, Rolls-Royce didn't quote engine output but rather stated that it was "sufficient." Under the Ghost's long hood lies a larger version of BMW's new twin-turbo V12. This potent yet silky-smooth power plant produces a "sufficient" 563 horsepower and 575 pound-feet of torque. Equally impressive is the fact that all of that torque is available at only 1,500 rpm, which makes this substantial automobile feel light on its tires. An eight-speed automatic transmission -- also sourced from BMW -- provides quick, smooth and nearly imperceptible gearchanges.

Though it will be Rolls-Royce's volume leader, the Ghost will still be a relatively rare sight. The company bills the Ghost as a Rolls-Royce that's ideal for daily driver duty, whereas the massive Phantom is more a car for special occasions or one to be chauffeured around in. To put it into terms its clientele will readily relate to, think of the Ghost as the power suit to the Phantom's tuxedo. Overall we're quite impressed, finding it more desirable than a Maybach 57 and a keen alternative to the older Bentley Continental Flying Spur. However, we wonder if it's really worth the added cost over a Mercedes-Benz S600 or Jaguar XJL Supersport. Still, for shoppers with the financial means, the 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost is an intriguing choice.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost luxury sedan comes in a single four-door body style in one well-equipped trim level. Standard feature highlights include 19-inch alloy wheels, an active air suspension, a sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, keyless entry/ignition, auto-dimming mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, automatic xenon headlights, power-closing rear doors, leather seating and trim, a pair of umbrellas stored within the front doors, heated front and rear seats, 10-way power and massaging front seats, four-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a navigation system, adaptive cruise control and a 16-speaker premium audio system with a 12.5GB hard drive music server, satellite radio, a CD/DVD player and USB/auxiliary audio inputs.

Options are seemingly limited by the buyer's imagination and finances, as one may choose such items as finely crafted wooden drop-down picnic tables, twin rear DVD monitors (with a six-disc changer) and individual "lounge" seating for the rear compartment complete with massaging seats and a cooler between the seats. The Driver's Assistance Systems package adds lane departure warning, automatic high beams, a head-up display and a night-vision camera. Although a dozen exterior colors, along with a choice of eight leather and five wood trims will be offered as standard fare, those seeking more exclusivity will be able to customize their Ghost any way they see fit through the company's bespoke program.