Beneath the crystalline chandeliers of Grand Hôtel Stockholm, we experienced two models from the Rolls-Royce stable: the graceful Extended Ghost Series II and its enigmatic twin, the Black Badge Ghost Series II. Though both share the same ethereal DNA, each revealed its own version of luxury, performance, and presence.
A Quiet Force: The Extended Ghost Series II
There’s a quote from Rolls-Royce’s history that still lingers in the air like one of its perfumed leather cabins: “The loudest noise in this Rolls-Royce comes from the ticking of its clock.” Over a century later, that silent command of the road is alive in the Ghost Series II.
The inside is where Rolls-Royce’s craftsmanship shines. Duality Twill embroidery (woven from bamboo) or Placed Perforation leather patterns allow for nearly limitless personal expression. The new Spirit of Ecstasy Clock Cabinet and 1400-watt Bespoke Audio system transport occupants to a realm that feels more like a private art installation than an automobile.
With 563 bhp and 850 Nm of torque from its twin-turbocharged V12, the Extended Ghost glides like its name suggests. From inside, the experience is less “driving” and more “conducting”, as if the road itself bends to the Planar Suspension and Flagbearer system, scanning terrain ahead to deliver the brand’s iconic “magic carpet ride.”
Despite its generous length (5.7 meters) and nearly 2.6-ton unladen weight, we found the Ghost surprisingly agile. It navigated the streets of Stockholm with a composure that belied its size, proof that it’s not just a chauffeur’s delight but a driver’s as well. Subtle design tweaks, such as a new illuminated grille and revised headlamp graphics, subtly modernize without compromising its monolithic stance.
And then there’s Whispers, Rolls-Royce’s private invite-only digital club. It’s not just a remote key or trip planner. It’s access to a global network of fellow connoisseurs, and in the world of ultra-luxury, that’s perhaps the most valuable feature of all.
The Alter Ego: Black Badge Ghost Series II
If the standard Ghost is the gentleman, the Black Badge Ghost is his double life: mysterious, daring, unapologetic. This “alter ego” dials up the drama with blackened chrome elements, a darker Spirit of Ecstasy, and a rich Technical Carbon dashboard finish that’s as layered as its character.
Power jumps to 600 PS and torque to 900 Nm, shaving 0.1 seconds off its 0–100 km/h time (now 4.7s). But it’s not just speed, it’s the assertiveness of it. Push the throttle past 90% in “Low” mode and the shift speeds sharpen, while the exhaust murmurs with newfound urgency. It’s still a Rolls, just one that wears a tuxedo with tattoos.
Yet even in its boldest attire, the Black Badge doesn’t alienate tradition. The craftsmanship remains as exacting. From its carbon-weaved diamond patterns cured under pressure to the darkened vent surrounds created using physical vapour deposition to resist time and wear—nothing here feels rushed or brash. It’s rebellion, yes, but with pedigree.
Beyond Luxury
Both models harken back to history. From the Silver Ghost’s legendary 1913 Spanish Grand Prix victory to the modern-day Spectre’s nod to aerospace tech with “Sprite Mode,” Rolls-Royce has always flirted with mystique and mastery.
Rolls-Royce offers over 44,000 paint colors and welcomes new ones. Clients can commission nearly any material combination. But when it comes to engineering, there is no negotiation. There is no manual. No configurable suspension. The setup is final. Because it works.
Final Thoughts
We arrived at Grand Hôtel expecting an indulgent experience. What we received was something far more nuanced. The Extended Ghost reminded us that true luxury whispers, never shouts. And the Black Badge proved that even icons have a side that thrives in the shadows.
The drive? In a word: surprising. More nimble than anticipated. Agile, even playful, without ever losing that regal float.
Two Ghosts. One philosophy. You choose how it looks. Rolls-Royce decides how it drives.
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