2014 Rolls-Royce Wraith

Few automobiles combine presence, craftsmanship and effortless V12 performance quite like the 2014 Rolls-Royce Wraith. Introduced as an entirely new model for 2014, the Wraith revived a historic Rolls-Royce nameplate last used in 1938 and represented a distinctly more sporting interpretation of the marques traditional grand touring formula. This particular example makes an especially striking statement with just 23,524 miles since new, finished in a dramatic two-tone white exterior with a contrasting black upper finish, complemented by a white leather interior with rich wood-grain accents.

At the heart of the Wraith is its extraordinary 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12, producing a formidable 624 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, with peak torque available from only 1,500 rpm. Those figures made the Wraith the most powerful production Rolls-Royce introduced up to that point. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission, creating the kind of immense, seemingly effortless acceleration perfectly suited to a Rolls-Royce grand tourer. In instrumented testing, Edmunds recorded 060 mph in just 4.7 secondsremarkable performance from a substantial four-passenger ultra-luxury coupe.

The Wraith was much more than a two-door interpretation of the Ghost. Its wheelbase was shortened by approximately seven inches, while its steering and suspension received model-specific tuning intended to deliver greater agility. A sophisticated self-adjusting air suspension preserves the composed ride expected of the marque, while the Wraiths innovative Satellite-Aided Transmission uses navigation information about the road ahead to assist the eight-speed transmission in selecting an appropriate gear for approaching curves, intersections and other changes in the route.

Its exterior remains unmistakable. The sweeping fastback roofline, imposing proportions, signature Rolls-Royce grille and dramatic rear-hinged coach doors distinguish the Wraith from virtually anything else on the road. The absence of a conventional B-pillar further contributes to the dramatic appearance created when those substantial doors are opened. On this example, the two-tone white-and-black exterior emphasizes the Wraiths long, low profile beautifully.

Inside, the Wraith demonstrates why Rolls-Royce interiors occupy such a distinctive position in the automotive world. This example surrounds its four occupants with white leather seating and wood-grain accents, while the front occupants enjoy power-adjustable, heated and ventilated seats. Overhead, a moonroof brings additional light into an already remarkable cabin. The substantial rear seating means this is a genuine four-passenger grand tourer rather than a coupe with merely token rear accommodations.

Technology is integrated without overwhelming the traditional craftsmanship. The central infotainment display provides AM/FM audio, Bluetooth connectivity and navigation, while the camera system adds valuable visual assistance around a vehicle of the Wraiths considerable proportions. Four-zone automatic climate control and the extensive luxury equipment expected of this class further reinforce the Wraiths grand-touring mission.

The numbers alone tell an extraordinary story: 6.6-liter twin-turbo V12, 624 horsepower, 590 lb-ft of torque, rear-wheel drive, eight-speed automatic transmission and 060 mph in 4.7 seconds in Edmunds testing. But the 2014 Wraith is equally significant for what those numbers accompanya hand-finished, four-passenger Rolls-Royce fastback conceived to deliver substantially greater performance and driver involvement without abandoning the refinement for which the marque is known.

With only 23,524 miles since new, this beautifully specified two-tone white and black 2014 Rolls-Royce Wraith presents an exceptional combination of dramatic design, V12 power, advanced engineering and unmistakable Rol