Phantom gets a Phacelift: Rolls-Royce sedan updated for 2009


Click above to view the 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom in high resolution

It's hard to feel bad for something as stately as the Rolls-Royce Phantom sedan, but the model that relaunched the most distinguished of British automakers under BMW's patronage has soldiered on without a complaint while all the others got the attention. Since its introduction in 2003, the Phantom has spawned the Coupe and Drophead versions, as well as the Extended Wheelbase model. And with the Silver Ghost due to arrive soon, the Phantom must have started to feel a little left out.

But Rolls-Royce isn't about to forget its core product, so it's giving the Phantom a mild update for the 2009 model year, just to show they care. On the outside, the revised Phantom gets a new bumper with a shallower stainless steel grille like those on its two-door compatriots. Rolls has also added such luxury touches as LED lights in the door handles and three new sets of aluminum wheels for customers to choose from. Inside, the impossibly luxurious cabin gets some updates to the entertainment system and redesigned interior door panels. Full details are available in the press release after the jump, with photos in the gallery below.

PRESS RELEASE

ROLLS-ROYCE PRODUCT UPDATE TO MODEL YEAR 2009

16 February 2009, Goodwood

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is pleased to announce details of a product update to the 2009 model year Phantom and Phantom Extended Wheelbase. Building on a successful sales year in 2008, the phased introduction of a number of subtle model year enhancements will reinforce Phantom's position as the pinnacle product of the super luxury segment.

Harmonising the front appearance of the car with that of the Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé, a new streamlined front bumper has been designed and integrated with a shallower grille, finished in stainless steel.

Other new exterior features include LED door handle illumination and the fitting of 21-inch cast aluminum wheels as standard. Two further wheel options exist, both manufactured in forged alloy and available in either painted or part polished finishes.

Inside, rear passengers will benefit from a new RCA component input which provides auxiliary audio and visual connectivity to the 12-inch monitors mounted within the picnic tables. Further features include new front and rear door cappings with integrated grab handles and new bi-directional double reading lights in the C-pillar provide additional illumination. Rear climate control, volume control and electric window switches are now conveniently repositioned, housed in a wood veneer panel in the door.

Production will commence at Goodwood in the spring.

Share This Photo X