A Little Cullinan Time

Family-owned car dealership, JCT600, has just redeveloped one of its sites to provide an opulent home for three of its prestige marques, Bentley, Aston Martin and Rolls-Royce. Oh, to have a bulging bank balance, as the Geldard Road site would be one of my go-to destinations.

A chance to pay a visit coincided with the opportunity to try the latest Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the Series II, which has received a raft of updates for 2024. Cullinan was the British manufacturer’s first foray into the world of the all-wheel drive SUV, and I think it would be fair to say that it received a mixed reception.

The Cullinan’s exterior has been given a subtle facelift, with slimmer headlights and new daytime running lights framing the squared off front end. There are redesigned lower air intakes in the bumper and larger 23-inch alloy wheels are now an option. There are subtle changes at the rear too, with new tail lights and a slightly different lower bumper design.

As if the Cullinan was not distinctive enough, the press car at my disposal was finished in a rather bold shade, grandly titled ‘Morganite’. It’s a pinky/peachy sort of hue, not to my taste but likely to appeal to the new, affluent younger buyer that Rolls-Royce is now chasing.

My time with the car was far too short but having enjoyed a long weekend with a Cullinan some years ago, it all felt very familiar. Don’t let the Cullinan’s size fool you. This is a vehicle that can move with surprising alacrity. The 6.75-litre V12 engine purrs quietly under normal driving conditions, but unleash its full potential, and you’ll find yourself propelled forward with a force that seems to deny the laws of physics.

The acceleration is more than adequate for a vehicle of this stature, though caution should be exercised when approaching corners at speed. The Cullinan should also be genuinely capable when the tarmac ends. While it may lack the hardcore off-road equipment of dedicated 4x4s, it should be more than up to the task of tackling rough terrain that its owners are likely to encounter.

The Cullinan undoubtedly offers a driving experience unlike any other. The ride quality is for the most part quite exceptional, though deep potholes encountered at low speed can result in a rather unseemly thump. Blame the optional 23-inch alloy wheels perhaps. The steering, while not sports car sharp, provides enough feedback to inspire confidence even when manoeuvring this substantial vehicle through tight spaces.

The highlight of any Rolls-Royce is the bespoke interior and there have been more significant updates here. A new glass pane spanning the entire dashboard width is now fitted and this houses the infotainment screen and digital driver’s display. There is also the introduction of the SPIRIT operating system, first seen in the all-electric Spectre.
There are new seating options like the ‘Duality Twill’ incorporating up to 2.2 million stitches and 11 miles of thread. The test car’s seating was a mixture of grey and black leather with some peony pink piping echoing the exterior. The front seats are as comfortable as your favourite armchair and infinitely more adjustable and the view out quite imperious. The steering wheel is a delight to hold, and the switches and major controls are tactile to the touch.

Cullinan buyers can specify standard seating for three rear passengers or there is the option of two rather more accommodating and adjustable individual rear seats. Whatever the choice, head and legroom is more than plentiful. In addition, electric picnic tables fold down should you need to do a spot of work or indeed enjoy a picnic.
One might not expect practicality to be a strong suit of a vehicle in this class, but the Cullinan surprises here too. The boot, while not cavernous, is more than adequate for most needs. The spilt tailgate adds a touch of versatility too, perfect as a comfortable perch at the races perhaps.

There’s no doubt the Rolls-Royce Cullinan is a vehicle that exists in a class of its own. It’s a testament to what’s possible when cost is no object and luxury is the primary goal. While it may not be to everyone’s taste aesthetically, there’s no denying the engineering excellence and attention to detail that has gone into its creation.

For those fortunate enough to experience the Cullinan, it offers a blend of opulence, capability, and presence that few other vehicles can match. It’s not just a mode of transport, its undoubtedly a statement, a sanctuary, and an experience all rolled into one impressive package.

Fast Facts (as tested)

Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge
Exterior colour – Morganite
Interior – Black/Scivaro Grey
Veneer – Black Badge Technical Carbon
600PS V12 engine
Max torque 900Nm @1650 rpm
0-60mph in 4.9 seconds
Top speed 155mph
Combined economy 17-17.3mpg
Emissions – 370-377g/km CO2
Price £382,800 before options
Cullinan from £334,800