Once again, our spy photographers have managed to nab the new “Baby” Rolls-Royce, tentatively called RR4. This time, our photographers managed to spot the RR4 with very little camouflage and we can see that the car follows traditional Rolls-Royce styling but appears much smaller and more svelte than the Phantom. As previously reported, the RR4 is headed for a March reveal.
According to a new Car Magazine report, Rolls-Royce is readying the RR4 for a debut at March’s Geneva Motor Show. However, just as Rolls-Royce previewed the Phantom Drophead and Coupe with 100EX and 101EX concepts, respectfully, look for the RR4 to show up in concept-guise at the Geneva show. It remains unclear if Rolls-Royce will continue its numeric naming system — i.e. the 102EX — for the RR4 concept or if the British luxury marque will go with a different naming scheme to convey the new nature of the smaller car.
The CEO of Rolls-Royce, Ian Robertson, recently told reporters that the introduction of a new smaller and entry-level model will likely double the their annual output to roughly 1,600 cars. As previously reported, the new Roller is expected to share a platform with the new 7-Series. Rolls-Royce will utilize the Bimmer platform to build a less expensive luxury car. Of course, “less expensive” in this case means in the low $300,000 range.
Despite the baby Rolls’ close connection with the 7-Series, the two cars won’t share any visible interior designs or parts. The new Rolls-Royce model will also have a unique wheelbase, as well as a unique roof and hood height and track. Curb weight will likewise be appropriate to a Rolls, with the big-boned baby expected to tip the scales at over 5,000lbs.
As seen in the latest spy shots, the RR4’s heavy rear plastic cladding is gone, and the final shape of the car is beginning to emerge. As expected, even the Baby Rolls will carry the marque’s signature lines, albeit in a much slimmer profile than the Phantom. We can also see that the suicide-style doors from the Phantom carry over onto the RR4.
The new model will also use a unique range of engines, though they will likely be based on BMW engines — such as the twin-turbo V8 slated for duty in the X6. Sources also say that Rolls-Royce is considering offering the new car with a diesel option, as well as a petrol V12.
A second shift will be added to the Goodwood factory in England, where some 800 additional units will eventually be produced, on top of today’s output of 800 vehicles.
Look for the Baby Rolls to hit dealer showrooms in late 2009 or early 2010.
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