Head of Exterior Design at Rolls-Royce fills us in on the Ghost Series II

The Ghost is a thoroughly contemporary representation of Rolls-Royce luxury - perfectly balancing effortless dynamism and modern luxury in a car that is composed under all circumstances.

Offered in a discreet and considered update of this iconic car's exterior appearance, the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II offers the latest technological advances to the premium British luxury marque's growing base of highly-successful customers.

Spearheading the Ghost Series II's design upgrade is none other than Marcus Syring (MS), Head of Exterior Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

We find out more about the design of the car from the man himself.

SGCM: In your own words, what does it mean to drive a Ghost? Or perhaps, being driven in it?

MS: Driving a Ghost means to experience comfort, precision and effortlessness. Once I had the opportunity to drive a Ghost Extended Wheelbase in England. I was amazed how smooth and effortless it was to drive, especially on small, winding country roads with oncoming traffic.

Being driven in a Ghost is a very sensual experience: You see perfectly shaped surfaces around you, you touch finest materials, you hear hardly anything from outside, and you smell a hint of leather. It's a luxury sanctuary on wheels.

SGCM: Rolls-Royce cars have always been aiming for the best in every aspect. How would you compare the second-in-line Ghost to the flagship Phantom?

MS: In terms of design, both cars are strong characters in the Rolls-Royce family. Both have great presence, are effortless to use and have the possibility for Bespoke individualisation.

The differences in proportion, size and design are due to their different functions. The Phantom is a very formal and elegant car, a true event every time you see one. Therefore, the gesture of the car is more vertically oriented and shows an expression of high status.

The Ghost, on the other hand, is seen as the perfect business limousine. Therefore, its powerful silhouette with the coupe-like roof employs yacht-inspired, horizontal, dynamic lines.
SGCM: Were there any compromises made in terms of design - dimensions, proportions, etc.?

MS: Rolls-Royce is not about compromises. The Ghost had from the beginning a well-balanced package: short front overhang, long bonnet, perfect track width to wheelbase proportions and a perfect wheel size in comparison to the height of the car body.

We sharpened and evolved the character of the Ghost Series II by raising the front grille and by redesigning the higher bonnet to give an impression of the V12's power.

The new head light graphic works in line with the more fluid lines and widened front face. In addition, the waft line on the side sweeps upwards more dynamically.

SGCM: Are there any design cues on the Ghost Series II that are inspired by other models?

MS: At Rolls-Royce design we have great respect of the work of our predecessors, especially of those in the coach build era. We feel inspired by the design, quality and variety of Rolls-Royce motor cars with more than a hundred years of tradition.

However, the Ghost Series II is not inspired directly by an earlier Rolls-Royce model but interprets iconic details like the front grille and the waft line in a contemporary way.

SGCM: What is your favourite design element of the Ghost Series II and why?

MS: My favourite design element, clearly, is the new LED head light. It creates a new distinctive, more focused look and stands out from the crowd. The unbroken daytime running light is very homogeneous and all surfaces inside the light unit were modelled precisely. It is a fine example where function, technology and design converge and support each other.

SGCM: On a personal note, do you like the Ghost or the Ghost Series II better?

MS: From the design point of view, both cars are the best business limousines when launched. I personally prefer the Ghost Series II because apart from the exterior design refinements, I like the improvement in materials, which you can touch and feel. The Ghost Series II received metal door handles as a first touch point of the car and redesigned full grain leather seats offering even more comfort. In line with this, you can also find leather covered A and C-pillars.