Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge
The Rolls-Royce Wraith, introduced in 2013, represented a deliberate shift in the marque's appeal. Where the Phantom and Ghost targeted the traditionally chauffeured customer, the Wraith was designed to be driven — a two-door fastback coupe that channelled the spirit of the dashing 1938 Wraith while incorporating thoroughly modern engineering.
Based on a shortened version of the Ghost's platform, the Wraith featured a striking fastback silhouette with a dramatically raked roofline that tapered elegantly into the boot lid. The proportions were commanding: over 5.2 metres long, nearly 2 metres wide, and weighing nearly 2.5 tonnes. Yet despite its mass, the Wraith was genuinely quick, its 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 producing 624 bhp and 800 Nm of torque in standard form.
The Black Badge variant, introduced in 2016, pushed the Wraith further into grand tourer territory. Power rose to 623 bhp (later cars), the exhaust note was enhanced, the suspension was stiffened by approximately 10 percent, and the transmission was recalibrated for more immediate responses. The exterior received a darkened treatment with a high-gloss black chrome Spirit of Ecstasy, infinity logo, and all exterior brightwork finished in dark chrome rather than the traditional bright finish.
The interior maintained Rolls-Royce's obsessive attention to craftsmanship. The starlight headliner — with 1,340 individually placed fibre-optic lights — became almost synonymous with the Wraith and was frequently specified. The rear-hinged coach doors opened to reveal a cabin trimmed in the finest leather, with real wood veneers, deep-pile lambswool carpets, and Rolls-Royce's signature analogue clock in the centre of the dashboard.
The Wraith also introduced Satellite Aided Transmission, which used GPS data to pre-select the appropriate gear for upcoming road conditions — an upcoming corner, roundabout, or motorway junction would prompt the gearbox to hold a lower ratio or upshift for efficiency. This technology exemplified Rolls-Royce's philosophy of anticipating the driver's needs.
Production of the Wraith continued until 2023, when it was discontinued alongside the Dawn convertible as Rolls-Royce prepared for the transition to its all-electric future. Over its decade-long production run, the Wraith attracted a younger demographic to the brand and demonstrated that Rolls-Royce could create a genuinely engaging driver's car without compromising its legendary refinement.
The Wraith is more driver-focused than other Rolls-Royces, so check for suspension and tyre wear carefully. Black Badge models command a premium but verify the specification is genuine factory Black Badge, not an aftermarket darkening treatment. Air suspension should provide a smooth ride with no listing — check all four corners. The V12 engine is generally reliable but check for oil consumption and ensure all services have been completed at Rolls-Royce dealers. The starlight headliner is expensive to repair if individual LEDs fail. Coach doors should close smoothly with the power-close function. Check all electronic features thoroughly. Full Rolls-Royce service history is essential. Watch for alloy wheel damage — the large 21-inch wheels are easily kerbed.
Built on shortened Ghost platform at Goodwood. Black Badge variant introduced 2016 with darkened exterior treatment and enhanced performance. Satellite Aided Transmission was a world first. Discontinued 2023 alongside Dawn as Rolls-Royce prepares for electric era.