When Rolls-Royce introduced it’s Wraith, a 2 door luxury-coupe, it made a ground breaking change to the luxury coupe segment. Now, introducing the Dawn, essentially a “top-less” version of the Wraith, it aims to “redefine the luxury topless segment”. With North America being Rolls-Royce’s largest market, it hopes to make a strong impression with the Dawn.
The Rolls-Royce Dawn will provide a top down experience like no other. A full, individual seating arrangement will bring sedan like comfort to 4 people in a body style that typically caters to only two occupants. With the Dawn, gone are the days of 2+2 seating. The interior is appointed in the highest quality of materials to give passengers a tailored, real wood and leather sanctuary-nothing less than what one would expect from a brand known for its attention to detail and luxury.
Exterior body styling is distinctively Rolls-Royce. Sharing a few styling cues from the Wraith and Ghost II, the Dawn carries forward the iconic coach doors, elegant body, lights and grille. A hard-top roof is replaced with a thick fabric “soft-top” which is claimed to actually be quieter than a hard top. A choice between 20″ or 21″ wheels is also offered, bringing customization to the roofless chariot. The cherry on top is undoubtedly the “Spirit of Ecstasy” which sits proudly atop the front of the hood.
The Dawn will be powered by a 6.6 Liter V12, the same one found in the Ghost II. This engine will produce 563HP and 575lb.-ft. of torque, gracefully launching the Dawn to 100km/h in about 5 seconds. The transmission is the same satellite-guided, 8-speed automatic found in the Wraith. Added bracing and increased structural rigidity compensate for the removal of the roof and help to live up to the expected Rolls-Royce ride quality.
The Rolls-Royce Dawn is expected to be priced at 20 percent higher than the Wraith, coming in at close to half a million dollars.