Rolls-Royce Wraith: Ultra-Luxury Coupe Finds Its Audience
The Rolls-Royce Wraith combines 624hp V12 performance, hand-built luxury and bespoke features, attracting buyers seeking exclusivity and comfort in a grand touring coupe.
The Rolls-Royce Wraith, launched in 2013 and refined through 2018, redefined what an ultra-luxury coupe could be. With a 624hp twin-turbo V12 and a handcrafted interior, the Wraith appeals to buyers who want more than just a badge, they want the experience and presence that comes with a Rolls-Royce. While the £250,000-plus price (originally $320,500 in the US) puts it firmly in the rarefied air of the Bentley Continental GT and Mercedes S-Class Coupe, the Wraith brings a level of exclusivity and opulence that few rivals can match.
Performance and Driving Experience
Despite its 2.5-ton mass and nearly 17.5-foot length, the Wraith is the fastest production Rolls-Royce, reaching 60mph in 4.4 seconds. The 6.6-litre V12 delivers 590lb ft of torque from just 1,500rpm, making progress effortless. The ZF eight-speed automatic uses GPS data to anticipate gear changes, smoothing the power delivery. Air suspension and electronic damping maintain composure over poor surfaces, and the Wraith feels surprisingly agile for its size on open roads. Owners and reviewers agree that while it is not a sports car, the Wraith offers a rare blend of speed and serenity.
Tight city streets can be a challenge, and the car’s width and length require careful planning in urban environments. For many buyers, that is beside the point, the Wraith is built for crossing continents in comfort, not for darting through traffic.
Cabin Craftsmanship and Features
The Wraith’s interior is a showcase for Rolls-Royce’s bespoke craftsmanship. Four sculpted seats are trimmed in the finest leathers, with rear passengers enjoying genuine space and comfort. Buyers can specify almost any material or colour scheme, with options extending to unique wood veneers and custom embroidery. The Starlight headliner, with hundreds of fibre-optic ‘stars’, is a signature feature. Limited editions such as the 2018 Luminary Collection add even more drama, with illuminated Tudor Oak trim and a shooting star effect overhead.
Practicality is not ignored. The boot offers 16.6 cubic feet of space, enough for a grand touring trip. Massaging front seats, a high-end audio system and extensive sound insulation create a cocooned environment. Owners consistently rate comfort and design at the highest level, though some note that maintenance costs and fuel consumption are predictably high for a car of this calibre.
Ownership Impressions and Value
Used Wraiths retain a strong presence in the luxury market, with 2018 models typically commanding around $182,000 in the US, down from their original $329,750 MSRP. Owners highlight the sense of occasion every journey brings, the near-silent ride, and the admiration the car attracts. Downsides include high running costs, the need for premium fuel, and insurance premiums that reflect the car’s value and exclusivity. Some buyers point to limited fuel economy and the challenge of keeping the car pristine, but for most, the experience outweighs the expense.
The Wraith’s appeal lies in its ability to blend tradition with modern performance and technology. For those who want to understand the model’s unique driving character, see our test drive review at/rolls-royce-wraith-test-drive-review.
How the Wraith Compares
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | 0-60 mph (s) | Starting Price (US, 2018) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rolls-Royce Wraith | 6.6L V12 TT | 624 | 4.4 | $320,500 |
| Bentley Continental GT | 6.0L W12 TT | 626 | 3.6 | $214,600 |
| Mercedes S-Class Coupe | 4.0L V8 TT | 463 | 4.5 | $123,400 |
