Chris Harris’ reviews are always great and he rarely writes them anymore, so it’s refreshing to read one of his drive reviews. But his review of the new Rolls Royce Cullinan is a most interesting one because of his well-known hatred for it when it was first revealed. So what does he think about it after having given it a proper test?
Harris didn’t pull his verbal punches when the Rolls Royce Cullinan first saw daylight. He mocked its looks, questioned its existence and lamented the fact that even though he hated it, it was going to sell like crazy. So his anger wasn’t so much aimed at it or Rolls Royce but at the fact that, according to him, tasteless rich people will buy Cullinans in droves.
Now that he’s driven it, though, has his mind changed? Well, not so much. He still thinks it looks horrific. While styling is obviously subjective and personal taste varies, he has some points. It isn’t the best looking Rolls and it isn’t anywhere near as elegant as the Phantom or Wraith. However, I don’t know if it’s hideous. It is better looking than the Bentley Bentayga, a point Harris equates to comparing genital warts (the Bentayga is ghastly).
However, he does admit that it’s lovely to drive. The interior, despite some of its odd ergonomic quirks and shoddy center armrest bin, is typically Rolls Royce-lovely. The seats are fantastic, the leather is wonderful and the ride is unmatched. According to Harris, “The low-speed ride is a thing of wonder, even on the optional 22in wheels – no other SUV comes close to this level of serene progress.” Though he does admit that at higher speeds, its suspension can be upset.
Overall, it seems that Harris is impressed by the Rolls Royce Cullinan and its ability to be comfortable and luxurious even at its size. Though, he still takes issue with its existence and its looks, preferring the elegant Phantom instead.
[Source: Top Gear]
