The Color Purple: Rolls-Royce Ghost II | A Journey Through Provence
Sunflowers and lavender. Nothing conjures up dreamy images of Provence and the South of France more than these two sun-loving blooms. Surely they provided the inspiration for the color palette of this equally dreamy Rolls-Royce Ghost II. We're driving for a few blissful days in the heart of la belle Provence.
The car's exterior boasts Boracay Blue, a shade named after the Philippines' Boracay island. While the name suggests a vibrant blue, the paintwork leans more towards a subtle lavender hue. This is one of 44,000 colors offered by Rolls-Royce, showcasing their commitment to customization.
Stepping inside, the sunflower-yellow and white interior takes center stage. The yellow, reminiscent of a lemon, contrasts beautifully with the chalky-white leather, instantly evoking the charm of the South of France. It's a sensory experience that rivals the allure of Brigitte Bardot's Mediterranean escapades.
We're here to explore the Ghost Series II, a refreshed version of the iconic model with a base price of $357,000. This iteration received minor enhancements, building upon the 2020 revamp. The exterior features updated LED headlights, a streamlined lower section, and tail lights inspired by the Spectre electric coupe. New wheels further enhance its aesthetic.
The interior reveals a glass instrument panel, spanning the entire dashboard, now equipped with Spectre-inspired digital gauges. A unique in-dash clock 'cabinet' houses an illuminated, albeit quirky, miniature Spirit of Ecstasy. Our base for this Provençal adventure is the renowned Château La Coste, a 600-acre organic winery and boutique resort.
Acquired by Paddy McKillen in 2002, the estate transformed into a leading organic winery, a 28-room boutique resort, and six top-tier restaurants. What sets it apart are the art installations by renowned architects and artists like Richard Rogers, Tadao Ando, and Bob Dylan, adding a unique cultural dimension.
Our journey takes us through the Luberon region, gliding between picturesque French villages. The magic of the Ghost II lies beneath its hood, where the 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine remains unchanged since its launch. Despite being a V12, the engine's power is remarkable, accelerating the 5,440-pound car to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.
Driving the Ghost II is an experience in itself. The car's silence, poise, and smooth ride create a hedonistic comfort. Inside, you're enveloped in tranquility, with only the gentle thump of tires on French potholes breaking the serenity. The introduction of the electric Spectre has set a new benchmark for Rolls-Royce refinement.
While an electric Ghost II is on the horizon, possibly by 2030, it's the current iteration that continues to surprise. The Ghost II's handling, especially on the winding French roads, is a testament to its agility. Standard all-wheel drive, rear-wheel steering, and the Flagbearer system ensure a seamless ride.
For those seeking even more agility, the Ghost II Black Badge offers 591 hp and a Darth Vader-inspired black chrome finish. The Ghost II Extended Wheelbase provides additional rear-seat legroom. However, the standard Ghost II remains a masterpiece, embodying the gold standard of luxury and performance.
Despite its exquisite color, a nod to Provence's lavender fields, the Rolls-Royce Ghost II is a testament to the brand's enduring excellence.
