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Have you ever had a moment in your life when everything seemed right with the world, when the stars aligned and destiny was finally on your side? I have, and it happened last week when I was invited by Euro Motors to test-drive the Rolls-Royce Ghost, writes Charlie Holding.
From the moment you lay your eyes on this majestic model, you know that you’re in for something special. Smooth, flowing lines, sleek curves and an aggressive front grille all culminate to form a remarkable feat of engineering.
As I was handed the keys, an ear-to-ear grin shot across my face and I thought back to all the teachers I had in school who said I’d never amount to anything … if they could only see me now.
I pushed the unlock button on the key fob and the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy ornament proudly emerged from the bonnet, my eyes widened and my smile got even bigger.
The simple yet contemporary interior is perhaps even more impressive than the exterior. It offers expanses of soft full grain leather, natural wood veneers and soft wool carpets that could put a Persian rug to shame.
The finishes are fantastic, the veneers, for example, come from a single tree and are available in classic burrs like Walnut, Elm or straight-grained Malabar or Dark Wenge. Each piece is hand-polished to create a flawless shine.
Meanwhile, the hand-stitched leatherwork which dominates the seats, dash and doors takes over two weeks to complete, with nine hides required for each interior.
With a brand like Rolls Royce, people often ask the question, is it better to drive or be driven in? Admittedly, the back is far more spacious, elegant, comfortable and tech-savvy than my apartment but when you have a 6.6-litre V12 engine at your disposal, the drive is what it’s about.
The driver-centric cockpit boasts a large display panel in the centre stack, located just above the chrome dual zone air-conditioner, which belts out an artic blast.
Since each model is bespoke the options list is limited only by your imagination but some of the features in my model included Bluetooth, GPS/satellite communication, navigation system and voice activated controls, radio, CD/MP3 player, auxiliary output, TV, DVD player, two TV screens mounted in the back and air-conditioned seats.
When I did my due diligence researching the model, I found out that the makers refer to the drive as a ‘magic carpet ride’. I wasn’t sure why, but it all became clear when I hit the highway.
After cautiously passing a few lorries on the Sitra Causeway I began to relax when I noticed the car seemed like it was floating along rather than driving, presumably due to the adaptive air suspension at all four corners.
As I made my way down to Zallaq, the open stretches of road were perfect for opening up the throttle. Tap the accelerator and you’re in business, flying along smoother than silk, more fluid than water and gentler than a butterfly landing on cotton, pardon the hyperbole.
When you pair this level of comfort with the staggering amount of power under the bonnet and the refinement of the interior, the results are mind-blowing.
With so many fantastic features, gadgets and creature comforts, you may be surprised to learn that my favourite feature about this car was the umbrella … yes, that’s right, the umbrella.
Not that there are many rainy days here in the kingdom, but during the three days a year it happens, you’re in safe hands with the Ghost. A full-sized umbrella is stored in a hidden compartment inside the driver’s door. What a touch of class!
I’ve driven a lot of swanky cars over the years and I never tire of the envious glances from other drivers. However, while driving this car something new happened, I became popular.
As I pulled up to a traffic light I noticed a little girl in the car next to me. She had a beaming grin on her face and was waving at me enthusiastically… perhaps she was trying to imitate my face?
Although this model is remarkably fast and fun to drive it does not sacrifice any of the tranquillity and panache that the brand is known for.
One thing’s for sure, the next time I go camping and someone starts telling ghost stories around the fire, I’ve now got a pretty good one of my own!
For details, call Euro Motors on 17750750.
