Rolls-Royce Cullinan Review: Is This the World's Ultimate Luxury SUV?

When you hear “Rolls-Royce,” you think of excellence, opulence, and a level of handcrafted detail that no other automaker dares to replicate. But in a world dominated by SUVs, even Rolls-Royce had to eventually step into the arena—and when it did, the result was nothing short of extraordinary. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan isn't just a luxury SUV; it’s the Phantom of SUVs, redefining what it means to travel in style, comfort, and exclusivity.

So, is the 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan truly the ultimate luxury SUV? Let’s dive deep into its performance, interior, craftsmanship, and ownership experience to uncover whether it lives up to its lofty reputation—and its price tag.

A Bold Entrance: The Rolls-Royce SUV Legacy

Until recently, Rolls-Royce stayed strictly in the sedan and coupe lane, famously stating that SUVs were beneath the brand. But changing market demands—especially from ultra-high-net-worth buyers—pushed the company to reconsider. The result? The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, launched in 2018 and now entering its Series II update for the 2025 model year, delivering subtle but meaningful enhancements to design, performance, and technology.

Exterior: Timeless Majesty Meets Modern Muscle

From the first glance, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan exterior exudes dominance. The large, squared-off silhouette is unmistakably Rolls-Royce, capped with the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy on the hood. The Pantheon grille, laser headlights, and upright stance give it a regal look that easily dwarfs competitors like the Bentley Bentayga, Maybach GLS, or Range Rover SV.

For the Series II Cullinan, subtle design changes include new alloy wheels, a sleeker front fascia, and updated lighting. These tweaks preserve the Cullinan’s stately DNA while refining its road presence.

Interior: Where Elegance Becomes an Experience

The interior is where the Cullinan fully justifies its ultra luxury SUV status. Imagine stepping into a five-star hotel suite, only it’s on wheels.

• Materials: Every surface is draped in the finest leather, real wood, brushed metal, or lambswool carpeting.
• Customization: Thanks to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan bespoke program, buyers can commission anything from starlight headliners to exotic trim inlays or even monogrammed embroidery.
• Rear seating: Choose between Immersive Seating or the Viewing Suite—a pop-out set of seats and a cocktail table in the cargo area perfect for VIP outdoor events.

Even the cargo space is refined, with motorized tailgates, concealed storage compartments, and automatic load leveling.

Tech & Innovation: Spirit Meets SPIRIT

Technology in the Cullinan isn’t about novelty—it’s about seamless luxury. The SPIRIT infotainment system is Rolls-Royce’s new software suite introduced with the Series II update. It incorporates intuitive navigation, 360° camera systems, connected services, and even a virtual assistant tailored for elite clientele.

Passengers in the rear get full control over climate, media, and even massage functions. The experience feels less like a ride and more like being chauffeured in your own private jet on land.

Performance: Don't Let the Elegance Fool You

Beneath the elegant facade lies a beast.

• Engine: A 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 powers the Cullinan, generating 563 horsepower (and 592 hp in the Black Badge edition).
• 0–60 mph: Despite weighing nearly 6,000 pounds, the Cullinan hits 60 in just 4.9 seconds.
• Top speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph, though no one’s racing in a Cullinan—unless they want to.
• Suspension: The much-hyped Magic Carpet Ride lives up to its name. With air suspension, road-scanning cameras, and active stabilization, the Cullinan soaks up bumps like they never existed.

Off-Road Capability: Because Why Not?

Rolls-Royce shocked the world by giving the Cullinan true off-road prowess. Don’t expect rock-crawling, but its all-wheel drive, Off-Road Mode, and elevated ride height make it more than capable on gravel, sand, or snow-covered estates. The Cullinan can even wade through up to 21 inches of water.

Ownership Experience: The Price of Prestige

Is the Rolls-Royce Cullinan worth it? That depends on your definition of value. The base Rolls-Royce Cullinan price starts around $376,750, but most builds easily surpass $400,000. The Black Badge Cullinan pushes closer to $450,000, thanks to unique styling, enhanced performance, and exclusive finishes.

• Customization options: There’s no limit. If you can dream it, Rolls-Royce can likely build it.
• Maintenance cost: Expect it to be as elevated as the ride. Annual services run in the thousands, and while reliability is solid, parts and labor are premium.
• Depreciation: Surprisingly, the Cullinan holds its value better than most ultra-luxury vehicles, thanks to limited production, global demand, and brand prestige.

Cullinan vs the Competition

Let’s see how the Cullinan stacks up against other high-end SUVs:

The Cullinan wins on sheer presence, brand power, and interior craftsmanship. But it's also nearly twice the price.

Real-World Use: Can You Daily Drive a Cullinan?

Absolutely. Many owners do. While it’s large (with Rolls-Royce Cullinan dimensions at 210 inches long and nearly 6 feet tall), the driving dynamics are surprisingly nimble. And with rear-wheel steering, tight urban turns are easier than you'd expect.

Fuel economy, however, is where the Cullinan shows its age—expect 12 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. But if you're buying a Rolls-Royce, you're not tracking gas mileage.

The Final Verdict: Best Luxury SUV in the World?

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan doesn’t aim to compete with SUVs. It aims to redefine them. With unparalleled luxury, cutting-edge technology, bespoke personalization, and a commanding presence, it exists in a class of its own. While the price point ensures exclusivity, those who can afford it will find themselves in possession of what may truly be the best luxury SUV on Earth.

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