Rolls-Royce Cullinan review

The Cullinan introduces a renewed functionality to Rolls’ typically magnificent cabin ambience. Real metal pillars connect the centre console and fascia, and there’s water-resistant ‘box grain’ black leather on the dash-top, doors, and even the back of the key. The door bins comfortably swallow water bottles.

The driving position redefines imperious. Interestingly, the slender steering wheel on the Phantom is chunkier here: chauffeurs usually pilot the former and get used to using their fingertips, while the Cullinan is more likely to be driven by the owner. The instrument dials have beautiful graphics, the power reserve gauge is present (no rev counter in a Rolls), and the central multi-media display is now a touchscreen.

There’s a vast suite of assistance systems, including a four-camera system with panoramic and helicopter view, and an industry-leading hi-res head-up display. Rear passengers sit higher than those in front, either in lounge configuration or in sumptuous individual chairs (you can have a cool box and whisky glasses with that set-up, and whatever else you want – Rolls doesn’t have anything as proletarian as an options list, it has people to cater to your every whim).

Behind the split rear tailgate, the rear compartment can be specified with a Recreation Module, a motorised drawer specifically designed according to the owner’s preferred pastime, or you can order the Viewing Suite, which stores a pair of folding leather-clad rear-facing seats and cocktail table in a special cassette.

Rolls has also developed its own audio system. It’s absolutely stunning.