Published on January 7th, 2016 | by Daniel Sherman Fernandez
0Rolls Royce Testing SUV Platform
Yes, looks like the Bentley Bentayga will finally get a similar looking squared-off super luxury competitor. About a year ago Roll-Royce announced it was developing a new platform to underpin all its future models, including the brand’s upcoming SUV. Well this week it has been confirmed that their prototype vehicle is ready for testing.
Aside from saving weight, one goal Rolls-Royce has is to ensure that the new aluminum frame maintains the brand’s signature “magic-carpet ride.” It essentially must be quiet, smooth, and provide the tank-like solidity provided by current models like the Ghost, Wraith and Phantom.
Rolls-Royce says the new platform will go to production in 2018. Expect the new Rolls-Royce SUV to be the first model to get the new lighter frame. Not much else is known about the future SUV, though rumors suggest it will be powered by a 6.6-liter, twin-turbo V-12 and could fit up to seven passengers. Relatively close to Rolls-Royce SUV will be the upcoming BMW X7, which shares architecture with the next generation of the X5 and X6. Many of the components which will also be the same as the in the current all new BMW 7-series. The Rolls Royce SUV will also benefit from BMW’s expertise in carbon fiber technology.
Expect a price tag of above USD400,000 before local taxes.