It is not often that we are summoned by one of the most exclusive car manufacturers in the world, so when the call (or in this case email) came we answered. In March 2013 Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO announced the launch of the company’s Wraith, the newest Rolls-Royce model and their public relations department invited journalists to the stunning Canyon Suites at The Phoenician to test drive this immaculate and timeless automobile along the dessert roads of Arizona.
Wraith is the Scottish word for spirit or ghost, and a fitting label for this luxurious, rare and potent machine that is said to possess “a spirit that will not be tethered to the earth”. The beauty of this fastback is stunning; this model has a shorter wheelbase, wider rear track, and a powerful 624/465kW twin turbo V12 capable of hitting 60 miles (96.56 km) in 4.4 seconds.
The car is as equally intelligent as it is forceful with technologies such as the Satellite Aided Transmission which processes GPS information so it may select the right gear for the passage ahead. The Wraith corners precisely and the interior leaves nothing to be desired with features such as high-end leather, a starlight headliner of lamps in the roof lining and expansive panelling. The company will work with you if you desire even the slightest of modifications and details such as stainless steel door handles concealing the locks, finely tuned audio systems and the provision of doors that close easily from the inside with the just touch of a button are just small examples the excellence Rolls Royce designers have been known to create.
Stepping into this ride is like boarding a luxury yacht and these automobiles are similarly the ultimate symbol of status, exclusivity and wealth. The base price in US dollars is $284,900 but you wouldn’t want to pass up on options such as 21 spoke polished wheels for another $7,750, a gold-plated spirit of ecstasy at $9,100 (the figurine), or additional leather, veneer, multimedia and audio options, all which could easily add another $50,000-$100,000+ to the final price.
If you have the money though, or you do even get the chance to get behind the exquisite leather steering wheel, this is one spirit that provides unearthly pleasure.
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Cassandra Anderton calls Vancouver here home where she is a freelance writer and broadcaster covering food, wine, spa, lifestyle and travel. Often on the road, Anderton is constantly searching for new ways to live the good life and publishes www.goodlifevancouver.com as well as contributing to Savour Magazine, Darpan Magazine, BC Food and Wine Trails, Daily XY, and more.
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Photo courtesy of Rolls-Royce.
