2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Review

　　

2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Review

byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　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!"

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan 4dr SUV AWD (6.8L 12cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$303/mo  for Cullinan Base

　　Cullinan Base

　　4dr SUV AWD (6.8L 12cyl Turbo 8A) (Most Popular) - $330,000 MSRPBlack Badge 4dr SUV AWD (6.8L 12cyl Turbo 8A) - $382,000 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　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 zzdcar recommend?

It's your money. But if we were allowed to spend your money, we'd stick to the "regular" Cullinan. To this we'd add the Bespoke Audio option for the 16-speaker, 1,300-watt audio system, ventilated front seats and the sumptuous Sanctuary Seats for rear passengers. Springing for the Driver Assistance Systems option seems reasonable since it includes parking assist, full-speed adaptive cruise control and night vision. Nearly everything else, and we do mean nearly everything else, can be done to personal taste.

　　

2020 Rolls-Royce Cullinan models

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

　　

2020 Cullinan Highlights

Trim: BaseBlack BadgeBase

　　

Base MSRP	$330,000
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	14 MPG
Cost to Drive	$303/month
Seating	5 seats
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / unlimited miles