2024 Ghost Series II and Black Badge: The Most Driver-Focused Rolls-Royce Yet

Since its inception in 2009, the Rolls-Royce Ghost has been a defining force in the brand’s evolution, reshaping how modern generations experience luxury. With the unveiling of the Ghost Series II, this legacy continues, blending bespoke craftsmanship with a driver-centric focus that speaks directly to a contemporary audience. Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said, “Ghost is renowned as a uniquely expressive, agile, and self-assured representation of the Rolls-Royce brand. At our clients’ request, this new Series II iteration remains faithful to these principles, incorporating a potent and uncompromising engine and the essential potential for Bespoke.” This iteration brings meaningful exterior and material updates, making an even more expressive and impactful statement. The transition from the Phantom VII to new icons like Wraith, Dawn, and Ghost has redefined Rolls-Royce as an approachable, dynamic brand.

Designer: Rolls-Royce

The 2024 Ghost Series II marks an important chapter in this journey, merging cutting-edge design with the craftsmanship that Rolls-Royce is known for. Juliane Blasi, Head of Exterior Design at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “Ghost Series II represents the fundamental tenets of Rolls-Royce—serenity, effortlessness, and elegance—distilled into an expressive, monolithic form. Our clients asked for a design that would provide a stage for their Bespoke color and material choices, whether quiet and restrained or bold and expressive.” This evolution brings new elements that enhance the consumer experience, such as advanced materials, innovative technologies, and an elevated focus on driver engagement, making it luxurious and uniquely attuned to modern demands. Today’s Rolls-Royce clientele—averaging just 43 years old—are younger, more dynamic, and more likely to get behind the wheel themselves.

This shift has influenced the design and features of the Ghost Series II, making it more driver-focused, with an emphasis on performance enhancements and modern technology that appeal to a younger, more hands-on audience. Models like the Ghost have struck a balance between luxury and performance through features such as the advanced Planar Suspension System for a smooth ride, the powerful 6.75-liter V12 engine, and cutting-edge technology like the SPIRIT operating system, which offers seamless connectivity and driver engagement. The Ghost was a precursor to the Black Badge collection, embodying individuality and self-expression. The Black Badge collection adds a rebellious dimension to the Rolls-Royce brand, appealing to a younger audience who value performance and exclusivity while still maintaining the luxury and craftsmanship that Rolls-Royce is known for.

Sculpted Sophistication

The Ghost Series II embodies a subtle yet impactful evolution in its design, incorporating features like the newly designed lower grille geometry and distinct darkened chrome treatment. The lower grille now features darkened chrome strips running longitudinally to functional air ducts, surrounded by technical black chrome frames, adding verticality and solidity to the Pantheon Grille. The newly illuminated Pantheon grille and refined headlight graphics project a modern sense of elegance, while the redesigned taillights, inspired by the Spectre, emphasize a forward-thinking aesthetic. For those who opt for the Black Badge Ghost, these updates take on a more assertive character, with darkened chrome accents and a unique lower grille treatment that amplifies its commanding presence.

The Black Badge Ghost Series II pushes this assertiveness further with exclusive 22-inch forged wheels styled to project the mechanical complexity of its high-power V12 engine and chassis technology. According to Rolls-Royce, the Black Badge Ghost Series II’s wheel treatment is a defining aspect of its character, styled to project both the potency of its V12 engine and the dynamic abilities of its advanced chassis technology. The slender spoke geometry of the wheels provides a clear view of the powerful disc brakes, signaling the car’s dynamic capabilities. It isn’t just a darker palette; it’s an expression of distinct individuality. The lowered, sculpted profile speaks to those who desire an imposing yet refined presence on the road.

The wheels are a visual masterpiece, with a geometric design that merges technical precision with an artistic touch. These 22-inch forged wheels, part-polished to create a dynamic contrast, are complemented by striking yellow brake calipers, highlighting the Ghost’s performance pedigree. This visual interplay between luxury and aggression elevates the Black Badge variant, making a statement that goes beyond mere aesthetics.

Craftsmanship Meets Cutting-Edge Materials

Inside, the Ghost Series II combines innovation and luxury to enhance every journey. Introducing the SPIRIT operating system places advanced technology at the driver’s fingertips, integrating seamlessly with the Whispers private members app for ultimate connectivity. The upgraded Central Information Display now integrates with the new SPIRIT system, offering an intuitive interface that enhances the overall driving experience.

 

The cabin features refined materials such as Grey-Stained Ash wood and Duality Twill, a bamboo-based textile that brings an element of sustainable luxury. The Spirit of Ecstasy clock cabinet, now presented in black chrome rather than a mirror-polished finish, along with the illuminated fascia, adds a harmonious visual touch, elevating the overall ambiance without overwhelming. This subtle yet contemporary touch enhances the alter-ego aspect of the Black Badge lineup.

The seats, upholstered in a vibrant yellow leather, create an arresting contrast that embodies the rebellious spirit of the Black Badge lineup. The intricate detailing on the leather, including the bespoke embroidery on the headrests, exemplifies Rolls-Royce’s dedication to craftsmanship. The use of meticulously crafted Technical Carbon finishes, featuring a complex diamond-shaped weave of carbon and metallic fibers and darkened metals throughout the cabin, introduces a sporty yet sophisticated feel. The starry illumination across the fascia adds an ethereal touch, rewarding those who appreciate intricate craftsmanship.

In the Black Badge Ghost Series II, the cabin is transformed with Technical Carbon finishes and darkened metals, perfectly complementing its enhanced performance. This isn’t just luxury—a sanctuary reflecting the car’s heightened power. The Black Badge’s V12 engine, presented in a high-power configuration, offers 29 more horsepower and 37 more lb-ft of torque than the standard model, inviting those who enjoy the thrill of driving to experience its full potential. Chris Brownridge emphasized, “This new generation of Ghost also has extraordinary handling capabilities based on several advanced chassis innovations, securing Ghost Series II’s status as the most technologically advanced and driver-focused V12 Rolls-Royce ever created—a side of Ghost’s character that our clients increasingly and enthusiastically embrace.” The ‘Low’ button on the gear selection stalk unlocks a 50% increase in gearshift speeds when the throttle is pushed to 90%, coupled with a more pronounced exhaust note—enhancing the dynamic driving experience without compromising Rolls-Royce’s signature smoothness. The “Low” button is a subtle yet powerful feature, unleashing a more pronounced exhaust note and delivering a more engaging drive.

Refined Performance

The Ghost Series II retains its iconic 6.75-liter V12 engine, yet its ride quality is refined further with an enhanced Planar Suspension System, delivering an impeccably smooth journey. The Extended version adds additional rear space with Serenity Seating, ensuring that every passenger enjoys the same level of luxury. The Black Badge variant distinguishes itself with sharper suspension tuning. It utilizes the Black Badge Planar Suspension System, which includes a unique Upper Wishbone Damper and continuously variable, electronically controlled shock absorbers. The braking system has also been upgraded with a raised bite point and decreased pedal travel, directly responding to client requests for a more potent expression of the Rolls-Royce brand, intensifying the driver-focused experience.

From aesthetic enhancements to mechanical innovations, the Black Badge Ghost Series II tells a story of bespoke luxury and unapologetic individuality. Rolls-Royce once again fuses tradition with modernity, affirming the Ghost as a benchmark in contemporary luxury.