Friday, July 28, 2017
Rolls-Royce Phantom features
Looking at these pictures, it might take a few minutes to realise
that this is indeed a new-generation Phantom. But while very little has
changed in its exterior design, this Phantom sits on an all-new platform
designed to make it even more quiet and comfortable to drive – or be
driven in – than the old car. Small design changes include a grille that
now sits within the bodywork rather than in front of it and a sleeker
look at the rear that is said to be inspired by yachts.
This new Phantom is marginally higher and wider than the old car,
with slightly less space between its front and rear axles. Despite that,
interior space is mostly unchanged, although there is slightly more
head room on offer. Boot space has increased slightly, too. As before, a
long-wheelbase version of the Phantom will also be offered, and this is
likely to be especially popular in Far East markets, where Rolls-Royce
exports a lot of cars.
Rolls-Royce Phantom engine
The only engine on offer in the new Phantom is a thirsty 6.8-litre
V12 petrol – not that high running costs are likely to trouble any
prospective owners. Power has increased to 563bhp, but more significant
is that its full pulling power is available from just 1000rpm, which is
likely to prove useful in getting the 2625kg Phantom up to motorway
speeds. Indeed, the new car is capable of sprinting from 0-62mph in
5.3sec, and on to a limited top speed of 155mph. An eight-speed
automatic gearbox is standard.
The new Phantom's engine returns a claimed 20.3mpg combined, with CO2 emissions of 318g/km.
Friday, July 28, 2017
Priced from £53,180 Release date Now
There can be few people on the planet not familiar with the campervan
concept, thanks largely to the iconic, long-lived and much-loved range
of Volkswagens built for the purpose over the decades. Even people who
hate the idea of camping usually have a soft spot for the thought of
living the California Dream in one.
Of course, that lazy-day, carefree attitude rarely goes hand-in-hand
with the realities of owning and running one, and that is especially
true when you consider the more-than-£50,000 entry-level price for this
latest entry to the market, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class Marco Polo. Even
on a lease with a £11,000 deposit, you’ll be spending more than £600 a
month to own it, making the experience very much at the glamping end of
the price scale.
And, much as with a posh bell tent, the beauty of the Marco Polo lies
within rather than with its exterior looks, which are a light
development of the long-wheelbase version of the V-Class van,
upon which it is based. From the outside, then, it is nothing
extraordinary. Climb inside, though, and the wooden floor and
well-kitted kitchen get the excitement flowing. As keen historians will
know, Marco Polo was a 13th-century explorer and author; chances are he
dreamed of such luxuries as afforded by this namesake van.
Buyers get a choice of two 2.1-litre diesel engines with differing
power outputs, both linked to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
gearbox, and two trim levels, the higher priced of which is more focused
on adding cosmetic addenda than any significant kit.
