Road Test: Rolls-Royce Ghost II 4dr Auto

Seven degrees. That's the amount of forward lean applied to the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine on the bonnet of this new Rolls-Royce Ghost. It's also a measure of the way Rolls-Royce chooses to update its models; small, evolutionary steps and a microscopic, almost obsessive, attention to detail.

There's another reason. This ‘baby' saloon has been a hot ticket for Rolls since it arrived in 2009, with around four Ghosts sold to every Phantom. It's been a massive success, and so if it ain't broke, give it vapour trails.

Or at least, what Rolls calls a "wake channel"; a line down the bonnet that resembles a jet's vapour trail emanating from Miss Ecstasy's wings. Then there's the newly fashioned "waft line" along the flanks, pushed forward to add dynamism, to cap off the new LED headlights and daytime running lights on the completely new face.

There's subtle magic inside, too. Newly designed front seats that Rolls claims are its "best seats ever", angled rear seats, polished metal adorning the clock and instrument panel, a bombastic new audio setup and two new crafted veneers to choose from. It's here each Ghost takes on its own life; 82 per cent of Ghosts have been bespoked, and each veneer is more unique than a human fingerprint.
No two are the same. This is excellent.

What's also excellent is the new-for-Series-II Satellite Aided Transmission, which first premiered on the Wraith. It's a trick system that analyses GPS data and your driving style to make sure you're always in the appropriate gear for the terrain ahead. No undignified changing; the Ghost will discreetly arrange everything for you.

Cap it all off with new hydraulic rear axle bearings, and what you get is a Ghost that's better. Though it feels mildly ignominious to measure a Rolls through standard metrics, this new Ghost is just sublime. The ride quality, while not fully beyond reproach (the odd thump filters through slightly) is generally excellent. It's lovely.

The Dynamic Pack filters in a fraction more feel to the steering, but never sways into any unsubtle heavy-handedness. It's delicate. The gearbox, too, is spookily on point and never once missed a beat. The Series II, then, retains the exquisite feel of the Ghost; it discreetly ushers away the imperfections and sweeps you along in a wave of luxury and power.