The Rolls-Royce Cullinan represents the pinnacle of luxury SUVs, blending opulence, advanced engineering, and unmatched comfort. Introduced in 2018, it remains a benchmark for high-end automotive craftsmanship. But what makes the Cullinan truly special? In this article, I’ll dive deep into its design, performance, technology, and exclusivity to uncover why it remains an unparalleled choice for the ultra-wealthy.
The Design: timeless elegance meets SUV practicality
Exterior Aesthetics
At first glance, the Cullinan is unmistakably a Rolls-Royce. The bold Pantheon grille, Spirit of Ecstasy ornament, and imposing stature exude authority. Unlike many luxury SUVs that attempt to balance sportiness with elegance, the Cullinan embraces its grandeur unapologetically.
- Dimensions: At 5,341 mm in length and 2,000 mm in width, it’s one of the largest luxury SUVs available.
- Lighting: Iconic laser headlights ensure supreme visibility while enhancing its sophisticated appearance.
- Customization: Rolls-Royce offers an unmatched Bespoke program, allowing owners to choose from limitless color schemes, unique trims, and even personalized monograms.
Interior: a private jet on wheels
Inside the Cullinan, Rolls-Royce’s philosophy of “effortless luxury” comes to life. Every detail is handcrafted, ensuring supreme comfort and exclusivity.
- Materials: The finest leathers, handcrafted wood veneers, and metal accents create a cabin that feels more like a five-star lounge than an SUV.
- Seating: The Cullinan offers two seating configurations:
- Lounge Seating: A traditional bench accommodating three passengers.
- Individual Seating: Two executive seats separated by a fixed center console with a champagne cooler and crystal glasses.
- Doors: The iconic rear-hinged “coach doors” add a sense of drama, ensuring passengers enter and exit with grace.
- Starlight Headliner: Rolls-Royce’s signature feature, embedding fiber-optic lights into the ceiling, simulating a starlit sky.
Performance: power meets unparalleled comfort
Engine & powertrain
Despite its opulent focus, the Cullinan is no slouch on the road.
- Engine: 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12
- Horsepower: 563 hp (850 Nm of torque)
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph
- Transmission: 8-speed ZF automatic with seamless gear transitions
What sets the Cullinan apart is the effortless way it delivers this power. The throttle response is smooth, ensuring a serene driving experience without sudden jolts.
The magic carpet ride
Rolls-Royce engineered the Cullinan with the same focus on ride comfort as their flagship sedans.
- Self-Leveling Air Suspension: Adjusts continuously for a glass-smooth ride.
- Flagbearer System: Uses cameras to scan the road ahead and preemptively adjust the suspension.
- All-Wheel Drive & Four-Wheel Steering: Ensures agility and control, whether on city roads or rugged terrain.
Off-road capabilities: a Rolls-Royce that can tackle any terrain?
One of the Cullinan’s most surprising features is its off-road capability. While few owners will ever test it on rough terrain, Rolls-Royce engineered it to handle gravel, snow, sand, and even shallow water crossings.
- Off-Road Mode: Adjusts throttle response, suspension height, and traction control based on terrain.
- Wading Depth: Up to 540 mm, more than most competitors.
- Underside Protection: Skid plates and reinforced components ensure durability in challenging environments.
Technology & features
Rolls-Royce doesn’t chase the latest tech trends but rather refines existing technologies to align with their philosophy of effortless travel.
- Infotainment System: A high-resolution 12.3-inch touchscreen with intuitive controls.
- Rear Entertainment: Dual 12-inch screens with personalized controls for rear passengers.
- 360-Degree Camera: Offers panoramic visibility, crucial for maneuvering such a large SUV.
- Night Vision & Driver Assistance: Thermal imaging detects pedestrians and animals at night.
Pricing & customization
Owning a Cullinan is not just about purchasing a car—it’s about commissioning a personal masterpiece.
- Base Price: Approximately $350,000
- Bespoke Options: Some owners spend over $500,000 on personalized touches, from unique paint colors to custom embroidery.
- Black Badge Edition: A sportier, more aggressive variant with increased power (592 hp) and blacked-out aesthetics.
Is the Cullinan worth it?
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is more than just an SUV; it’s a statement of success. While some may argue that brands like Bentley or Range Rover offer similar luxury for less, the Cullinan’s craftsmanship, prestige, and exclusivity place it in a league of its own.
Would I recommend it? If budget isn’t a concern and you desire the absolute best in luxury motoring, then yes—without hesitation. It’s not just a car; it’s an experience.
Engage with Us!
What are your thoughts on the Rolls-Royce Cullinan? Would you choose it over a Bentley Bentayga or a Mercedes-Maybach GLS? Leave a comment below and let’s discuss!
all images thanks to rolls-roycemotorcars.com
