2021 Rolls-Royce Wraith Expert Review
Reviewed by Staff Writer
Somewhere between an automobile and a mobile idol to luxury is the Rolls-Royce Wraith. This massive four-seat coupe debuted for 2014 with the same title as an iconic Rolls-Royce model from the 1930s. While some Rolls models are intended to be chauffeur driven, the Wraith is meant to be enjoyed by whoever's behind the wheel. Nonetheless it features the same extravagant appointments as any other Rolls-Royce model.
What's New
- The limited-production Kryptos edition is offered with top-secret design details
What We Think
Assessing the Rolls-Royce Wraith is actually quite simple. It's so successful in its mission that there's not much to critique.
The Wraith's mission, of course, is to be a personal conveyance brimming with superlative luxuries. Material quality is unparalleled, and comfort unassailable. The breadth of colors, trims, and personalization options is nearly limitless.
Although it's not sporty, the Wraith actually drives very well. Despite its massive size the Wraith gives its driver a good sense of confidence and control. Acceleration and braking are impressive considering the vehicle's heft.
Criticisms that could be levied against the Wraith—poor fuel economy, middling technology, difficult parallel parking—just don't really stick. This vehicle transcends concerns that apply to normal cars, and represents a milieu of luxury that few can match.
What Engine Is in a Rolls-Royce Wraith?
Like every other 2021 Rolls-Royce, the Wraith is bestowed with a V-12 engine. This one displaces 6.6 liters and is assisted by two turbochargers to produce 624 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, although torque rises to 642 lb-ft in Black Badge models. It drives the rear wheels through a GPS-linked eight-speed automatic transmission. In MotorTrend testing, the Wraith launched to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds—quick for such a heavy machine. Like it will be for its buyers the Wraith's fuel economy seemed to be an afterthought for Rolls-Royce: it's EPA-rated at 12/18 mpg city/highway.
What Is the Wraith Black Badge?
Think of the Wraith Black Badge model as the range's performance model. Engine torque rises, and the transmission and chassis are tuned for better dynamic performance. Available carbon fiber wheels help shave some unsprung mass, but the Wraith remains a hefty coupe. As its name suggests the Wraith Black Badge is decked in dark trim, with polished black metal replacing chrome and carbon fiber offered as an interior veneer. Still, Rolls Royce will let clients configure their Black Badge however they please—even in colors that are very much not black.
How Many Seats Are In a Rolls-Royce Wraith?
The Wraith is a practical coupe—it has four seats, after all. Emphasis is placed on the front seats, but the rear seats are trimmed in the same soft leather and offer plenty of legroom. Each seat has its own climate zone and vanity mirror, too.
Does Rolls-Royce Make a Wraith Convertible?
How to make the Wraith even more indulgent? Take the roof off. Although it's not exactly a Wraith convertible, the Rolls-Royce Dawn is the closest thing to it. These two giants look very similar, but the only major exterior parts shared between them are the doors and windshield. The cabins are equally opulent, both have rear-hinged doors, and each has a V-12 engine under its majestic hood. The key difference is that the Dawn has a folding fabric roof so that whoever's riding in it can take in the sunshine in ultimate luxury.
Is There a Wraith Wagon?
Although large and spacious for a coupe, the Wraith may not have enough cargo capacity for the most lavish grand tours. If that other box of caviar just won't fit, don't despair. A Belgian coachbuilder has created the Wraith Silver Spectre, a shooting brake version of Rolls-Royce's coupe. Somewhere between a wagon and a hatchback, the Silver Spectre has an entirely new roof and rear end that create a larger cargo area. The Cullinan is a more practical Rolls Royce, but that SUV lacks the sleek elegance of the Wraith Silver Spectre. If a cross-continental journey is approaching, act soon—only seven Silver Spectres will be built.
