As soon as you click the unlock button and see the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy rise to its rightful place on the hood, you know you’re in for a special ride.
Debuted in 2013, the Rolls-Royce Wraith is the most powerful car in the company’s illustrious history. That means hitting 100 kilometres per hour in 4.6 seconds—though the smooth quality of the Wraith means even top speeds seem to glide along the highway. Satellite Aided Transmission technology employs GPS data to make sure the oncoming landscape is paired with the proper gear, and voice-activated commands with a one-touch call button ensure safety and ease; the two-door car also boasts brake horsepower of 624, a V12 engine with an 8-speed automatic ZF transmission, and 800 Newton Meter of torque from 1,500 revolutions per minute. All in all, the numbers and the advancements make for a fantastically slick ride, and getting behind the wheel feels like something akin to smoothing whipped butter across a warm baguette.
Entering through the luxurious coach doors, drivers and riders are greeted by Phantom-grade leathers and accents of Canadel Panelling (named for the South of France cove where Sir Henry Royce and his team vacationed in winter). Adding a whimsical touch is the glittering ceiling, which features 1,340 fibre optic lamps that were hand-woven into the lining. A steering wheel that adjusts to its driver and a rotary controller for the state-of-the-art screen technology add simplicity that only a high-class vehicle can. A welcomed touch, especially for Vancouverites, is the Rolls-Royce umbrella that pops out from its hiding place on the passenger side with the push of a button—perfect for moments of unexpected rain.
This year saw the launch of a special luggage set that is designed to fit perfectly inside the trunk of the Wraith, but it also saw some improvements the customization of the car itself, including an extended offering of thread colours for optimal personalization of the interiors, and the ability for customers to choose their handle colour on the aforementioned umbrella. Also new for the Wraith in 2016 is the allowance of the rear view mirrors to fold or unfold when the open or close buttons are pressed on the vehicle closing remote control. Lastly, a cast vehicle identification number plate has the option of being displayed on the A-pillar—after all, Wraith owners can be proud of where their cars came from.
Keep your hands on the wheel: read more Transportation stories.
