Rolls-Royce Cullinan

If, like us, you thought that Rolls-Royce might be immune from the allure of SUV sales, you'd be wrong. In 2019, Rolls-Royce bent to the trends and introduced what is, without question, the most luxurious SUV ever built. Named after the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found, the Cullinan is outfitted in the finest tradition of British opulence. Controversy comes in equal measure thanks to the Cullinan's exterior styling and extraordinary road presence. But as the saying goes, "When you've got it, flaunt it!"

Luxury can also be found under the hood of the Cullinan, where you'll see a 6.75-liter turbocharged V12 engine. The 571-horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque is sufficient enough to propel this more than 6,000-pound SUV with authority. Inside, the Cullinan shrouds its occupants in silence. It's difficult to fathom just how quiet and refined the Cullinan really is.

The Cullinan doesn't have many natural predators that don't already share the Rolls-Royce nameplate, but the closest is the Bentley Bentayga. Like other Bentleys, the Bentayga prioritizes driver engagement a bit more than the Rolls-Royce. The Bentayga is quite happy to be tossed around like a much smaller and sportier SUV. But if conspicuous luxury is all that will do, there is only one SUV.

Which Cullinan does MatoCar recommend?

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan comes in two trim levels: Cullinan and Black Badge. All Cullinans are all-wheel-drive, use an eight-speed automatic transmission, and draw power from a 6.75-liter twin turbocharged V12 engine with two available levels of output. There are a myriad of stand-alone options, encompassing everything from an upgraded audio system to a gold-plated hood ornament, as well as endless options for interior and exterior color combinations. Highlight features include:

Cullinan Sets the bar high with:

• Turbocharged 6.75-liter V12 (571 hp, 627 lb-ft)
• Full leather interior
• Laser headlights
• 22-inch wheels
• Adaptive air suspension
• Retractable hood ornament
• Power-closing doors
• Panoramic sunroof
• Heated front seats
• 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen
• 10-speaker audio system
• Head-up display
• Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
• Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)

Black Badge Adds power and unique style with:

• V12 upgraded to 600 hp and 664 lb-ft
• Red brake calipers
• Larger brakes
• Retuned suspension
• Unique 22-inch wheel
• Black chrome exterior trim