Rolls-Royce has quietly announced production of the Ghost is coming to end.
While the rest of the automotive world was focused on SEMA, Rolls-Royce revealed plans to show a Ghost Black Badge at the NEC Classic Motor Show in the United Kingdom. This didn’t raise eyebrows, but the company also said that this model “commemorates [the] end of Ghost’s ten year production run.”
Rolls-Royce didn’t release pictures of the car, but the automaker said it had a Black Diamond and Dark Emerald exterior with a dark chrome Spirit of Ecstasy mascot. Inside, there was Black and Seashell leather as well as technical fiber trim.
The end of production isn’t too surprising, given its life-span, and spy photographers have already snapped the its successor being tested on numerous occasions. However, Rolls-Royce said the outgoing model is “destined to become a modern classic” as it was an “uninterrupted commercial and critical success.”
Originally unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Ghost was an instant hit as it combined classic Rolls-Royce styling and luxury with a more affordable price tag. As the company notes, the car introduced the brand to a “new audience of younger, often self‑made customers.” This was important as Rolls-Royce was seen a stodgy brand, especially compared to Bentley which burst onto the scene with Continental GT in 2003.
Of course, fans won’t have to mourn the Ghost for long as an all-new model is in the works and will be even more special than before. That’s because, while its predecessor was based on the BMW 7-Series, the new car will ride on Rolls-Royce’s Architecture of Luxury.
Despite the all-new platform, the 2021 Ghost will have a familiar design that is instantly recognizable and retains the suicide rear doors. However, we can expect a sleeker front fascia and a more modern interior. The latter will adopt a digital instrument cluster, a larger infotainment system and updated switchgear.
There have been conflicting reports about what will power the car, but it’s believed the model will adopt the twin-turbo 6.75-liter V12 that resides in the Phantom and Cullinan. Rumors have also suggested all-wheel drive could be an option.