The Lowdown
reaffirms its throne as the undisputed monarch of luxury SUVs. While competitors chase performance or tech gimmicks, the Cullinan remains unapologetically focused on delivering an experience of unmatched opulence. Under the hood, the iconic twin-turbocharged 6.8-liter V-12 engine persists—a deliberate choice as rivals like Bentley retire their W-12 offerings. Paired with standard all-wheel drive, rear-wheel steering, and the Magic Carpet Ride system (a blend of self-leveling air suspension and adaptive dampers), the Cullinan glides with regal indifference to road imperfections.
Updates for the Series II are subtle but strategic: a redesigned front fascia with an illuminated grille and bolder headlights, 23-inch wheels, and a modernized interior featuring Rolls-Royce’s new BMW iDrive-based infotainment system. A fully digital dashboard now complements the Spectre-inspired glass panel spanning the cabin, though customization options remain surprisingly limited.
Base Price: 410,350∗PriceasTested:∗∗555,200
How Does It Drive?
Driving the Cullinan is an exercise in serene authority. On winding mountain roads near Greenville, South Carolina, its steering felt deliberate and unhurried—ideal for highway cruising but less engaging on sharp turns. The suspension, tuned for cloud-like comfort, allows noticeable body roll in corners, yet this softness is precisely what isolates occupants from the chaos outside.
The V-12’s 563 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque are delivered with such refinement that the engine fades into near-silence unless provoked. Braking prioritizes buttery smoothness over aggression, mirroring the throttle’s gentle calibration. This isn’t a SUV for thrill-seekers; it’s a mobile sanctuary designed for those who value tranquility over adrenaline.
What’s It Like to Live With?
Step inside, and the Cullinan’s cabin is a masterclass in craftsmanship. New materials like gray-stained ash wood and “placed perforation” leather elevate the ambiance, while the optional Shooting Star headliner (a constellation of fiber-optic lights) remains a jaw-dropping party trick. Rear passengers enjoy reclining seats, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and an 18-speaker Bespoke Audio system that transforms the cabin into a concert hall.
Tech updates include an improved infotainment interface, though Rolls-Royce still lags behind Mercedes-Maybach in features like automated door controls. Yet, such quibbles fade when confronted with the Cullinan’s near-silent cabin and seats that rival first-class airline suites.
Should I Buy One?
The Cullinan isn’t for everyone—it’s for the 0.01%. If you crave cutting-edge tech, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 beckons. For speed, the Ferrari Purosangue or Lamborghini Urus SE dominate. But if peerless luxury is your priority, nothing else compares.
Consider the Black Badge variant ($475,350), which boosts output to 592 hp and adds darker styling cues. For buyers already stretching into seven figures, the upgrade is a nominal fee for exclusivity. The Series II’s polarizing front-end redesign, however, may test traditionalists’ patience.
Highlights & Lowlights
We Love:
Unrivaled refinement and silence.
Handcrafted interior details (e.g., Peridot Green instrument dials).
The Shooting Star headliner—pure automotive theater.
We Don’t:
Tech still trails German rivals.
A base price that could fund a small island.
Final Verdict
The 2025 Cullinan Series II isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a statement. While its updates are evolutionary, Rolls-Royce’s commitment to craftsmanship and comfort ensures it remains in a league of its own. For those with the means, it’s less a purchase than an anointment into automotive royalty.