The all-new Rolls-Royce Dawn, which we previewed last week, has revealed itself just days before the start of the 2015 Frankfurt Auto Show. Based on the 1950-1954 Silver Dawn (limited to 28 units), this four-seat luxury cabriolet will be “the most social of super-luxury drophead motor cars for those who wish to bathe in the sunlight of the world’s most exclusive social hotspots,” the company says.
Make no mistake, though: the Dawn is a brand new vehicle and not a mere Rolls-Royce Wraith spinoff, with 80% unique body panels. The roof delivers the silence of a Wraith when up and operates in almost complete silence in just over 20 seconds at a cruising speed of up to 50 km/h.
Also, despite adopting a 2+2 configuration, the Dawn offers generous interior room, unlike other convertibles which require too much of a compromise, Rolls-Royce claims.
In terms of design, it sports a striking yet elegant exterior with classic Rolls-Royce appearance and presence. Riding on 20” or 20” wheels, the Dawn has a front grille which is recessed by approximately 45mm while the lower front bumper has been extended 53mm compared to Wraith. The first impression upon entering the car is of the four separate bucket seats set in the midst of a sumptuous and sartorial slingshot of wood and leather.
What about power? Well, customers will find under the handsome hood a 6.6L twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 563 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque, making the Dawn Rolls-Royce’s most powerful full four-seat drophead motor car to date. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 4.9 seconds and top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h.
Other highlights include the same satellite-aided transmission that’s found in the Wraith, which utilises GPS data to allow the car to see beyond what the driver sees, anticipating their next move based on location and driving style. For example, when approaching a sweeping corner, the car will predict how you wish to drive through it. When you lift the throttle it will hold the lower gear to ensure maximum power is available on accelerating through the exit of the corner.
Pricing for the Rolls-Royce Dawn will be announced at a later date. Expect to pay a king’s ransom.
