Introduction: The Pinnacle of Luxury SUVs
The 2023 Rolls‑Royce Cullinan redefines what a luxury SUV can be by combining majestic V12 power with sumptuous comfort and practical capabilities. Built at the Goodwood plant in England, it elevates SUV driving into an experience reserved for royalty. As Rolls‑Royce’s first all‑wheel‑drive vehicle, the Cullinan blends off‑road potential with unmatched refinement. With the recent launch of the Cullinan Series II and a potent Black Badge variant, this ultra‑luxury SUV remains unmatched in craftsmanship and exclusivity.
Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6.75 L twin‑turbo V12 |
| Power (Standard) | ~563 hp |
| Power (Black Badge) | ~600 hp |
| Torque | 627 lb‑ft (Standard); 664 lb‑ft (Black Badge) |
| Transmission | 8‑speed ZF automatic, AWD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | ~12 / 19 mpg (Combined ~14 mpg) |
| Towing Capacity | ~2701 kg (Standard); ~3311 kg (Black Badge) |
| Curb Weight | ~6069 lb |
| Suspension | Adaptive air with “Flagbearer” camera system |
| Interior Highlights | Duality Twill, illuminated fascia, massage seats |
Powertrain, Performance & Fuel Economy
Under the hood of the 2023 Cullinan sits a twin‑turbocharged 6.75‑liter V12 petrol engine, delivering between 563 hp and a stronger 600 hp in the Black Badge edition. Torque comes in at around 627 lb‑ft (or 664 lb‑ft for Black Badge) at very low revs, ensuring effortless acceleration and hushed refinement even at highway speeds. This model uses an 8‑speed ZF automatic gearbox linked to full‑time all‑wheel drive. Fuel economy is modest—expect approximately 12 mpg city and 19 mpg highway, yielding a combined rating around 14 mpg.
Design and Platform Excellence
The Cullinan is built on the Architecture of Luxury platform, featured in the Phantom VIII and other flagship models. Its aluminium spaceframe chassis delivers both structural rigidity and lightweight durability. The exterior retains Rolls‑Royce’s iconic styling—framed Pantheon grille, coach rear doors, and crisp proportions. Inside, it offers bespoke materials such as bamboo‑fiber “Duality Twill,” perforated leather seating, a panoramic illuminated dashboard, and optional 23‑inch wheels introduced with the Series II.
Comfort, Ride & Off‑Road Capabilities
Suspension is fully adaptive air suspension with four‑corner self‑leveling and the “Flagbearer” stereo‑camera system, which scans the road and adjusts damping proactively to maintain that legendary “Magic Carpet Ride” feel at speeds up to 100 km/h. The SUV includes rear-wheel steering improving low‑speed manoeuvrability and high‑speed stability. Despite its size and weight (over 6,000 lbs), driving it feels refined, dignified, and unhurried—even when weaving narrow roads.
Towing Capacity: Practical Meets Prestigious
One rare practicality in a Rolls‑Royce SUV: the 2023 Cullinan is rated for towing. The standard Cullinan offers a braked towing capacity of around 2701 kg (about 5,950 lbs), while the Black Badge variant increases that to approximately 3311 kg (~7,300 lbs). That means whether it’s pulling a luxury trailer or a watercraft, the Cullinan won’t flinch—even though most owners may never tow anything at all.
Ownership, Warranty & Market Position
Rolls‑Royce provides a 4‑year unlimited mileage warranty covering the Cullinan, a reflection of its uncompromising commitment to quality and peace of mind. It consistently remains among the brand’s top sellers—the fastest‑selling model since launch—with 6,032 units sold in 2023. Despite its size and price, it occupies a unique niche above the Ghost and below the Phantom in Rolls‑Royce’s lineup.
Model Variants: Series II and Black Badge
In 2024, Rolls‑Royce began production of the Cullinan Series II, which includes subtle styling riffs like updated LED daytime running lights, an illuminated grille, and richer trim offerings. Inside, new materials like Duality Twill bamboo-fiber fabric and bespoke perforated leather elevate the cabin. The Black Badge version adds more power, darkened design elements, carbon‑fibre detailing, and exclusive interior finishes, making it the performance‑oriented alter‑ego of the standard Cullinan.
Why It Matters: Beyond Power and Prestige
Answering critics who called it impractical, the Cullinan quietly merged luxury with function. It performs like a floating palace, yet can tow hundreds or thousands of kilograms. Its ride tech cushions rough roads, while the V12 engine powers roughly with grace not aggression. As one reviewer said, driving the Cullinan is more about experiencing craftsmanship than speed: it behaves unlike any other SUV in its class. With planned electrification by 2030, the Cullinan represents the luxury pinnacle of combustion-era Rolls‑Royce—and the final word on internal‑combustion opulence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the fuel economy of the 2023 Rolls‑Royce Cullinan?
The 2023 Cullinan achieves approximately 12 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating near 14 mpg.
2. How much horsepower does the Cullinan have?
The standard version produces around 563 hp, while the Black Badge trim increases that to about 600 hp.
3. What is the towing capacity of the Cullinan?
The standard Cullinan can tow up to approximately 2701 kg (5,950 lbs), while the Black Badge variant can tow about 3311 kg (7,300 lbs).
4. Is the Cullinan all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Cullinan uses a full-time all-wheel-drive system paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
5. Where is the Cullinan built?
It is built at Rolls‑Royce’s Goodwood plant in West Sussex, England.
I’m Waqas, an electric vehicle enthusiast and tech writer with over 6 years of experience covering the EV industry. I write in-depth articles, comparisons, and reviews to help readers understand the fast-evolving world of electric mobility. From battery technology to EV launches and charging trends, I aim to make complex EV topics simple, engaging, and informative for everyday drivers and curious readers alike.
