James Hutchinson, Guest Contributor at Luxurious Magazine road tests the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II in Dubai

Rolls-Royce cars have been named with the afterlife in mind: Phantoms, Ghosts and Wraiths are all around us eagerly enticing us into their world, with luxury and passion refusing to let those that are drawn in to forget the history and craft of this amazing brand.

I arrived at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers in Dubai to drive the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II where I was passed the key, and it was time to “haunt” the streets. One of the first things that you notice is the “Silver Lady”, or the “Spirit of Ecstasy”, that adorns the nose of the car which was rumoured to be the image of Eleanor Valasco Thornton, secretary to Lord Montague. Ultimately, nobody knows the true meaning, but it has since been replicated on the brand’s models since 1909.

I placed my hand on the handle of the Ghost Series II which allowed me to open the large and heavy barn- style doors. You are hit with the smell of leather and wood, and you find yourself gazing across a masterpiece of opulence. The leather is soft and supple, whilst the carpet is made of thick plush wool, which invites you to take off your shoes and feel the wool between your toes. All fixtures and fittings have been engineered with such perfection, that buttons and switches feel solid and precise. You immediately understand that Rolls Royce is maintaining their history of being at the forefront of the automotive world.

When you sit in the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II, your body almost melts into the seats. They are firm but soft no matter which one you choose. In the driver’s seat, there are comforts that help keep the fine precision feel of Rolls-Royce motoring. Stalks are slim with soft firm movements. Dials are pleasant on the eye as they have an almost classic vintage watch look, but are not overly bright during hours of darkness.

Start the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II, and there is hardly any noise or vibration. Like a ghost, you feel it’s presence but you’re not quite sure. The Spirit of Ecstasy rises from the nose, a positive indication that the engine is running. When selecting the gear on the slender side shift stalk, there is no jump of the gearbox. Just accelerate away without any fear of turbo lag. It’s as if you have stepped onto a magic carpet progressively surging forward, but with a floating sensation. The suspension soaks up any imperfections in the road.

Rolls-Royce produces cars that you want to see on the roads, that you want to drive and that you wish to relax in. In my mind, they cannot be beaten in terms of motoring luxury, even though many try. This was a drive that brought out all kinds of emotions, a journey that will replay in my memory for years to come. It was a treat for the senses and an honour to have had a personal experience of the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II, one of the most opulent luxury carmakers on the road today.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II specification at a glance:

  • Engine: 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12, eight-speed automatic gearbox, rear-wheel drive
  • Power: 563 bhp
  • Torque: 780 Nm
  • Acceleration: 0-62 mph (0-100kmph) in 4.9 seconds
  • Top speed: 155 mph (limited)
  • Economy: 10.5 l/100km
  • Emissions: 327g/km CO2