FYI: The Rolls-Royce Dawn, introduced as the successor to the Phantom Drophead Coupe in 2015, stands out as a hallmark in the luxury convertible segment through its exemplary design, craftsmanship, and performance.
Reinventing the Luxury Convertible: The Rolls-Royce Dawn
Launched in 2015, the Rolls-Royce Dawn emerged as more than a successor to the Phantom Drophead Coupe—it redefined the Rolls-Royce convertible experience. This innovation emphasized modern technology while retaining the brand’s renowned elegance and sophistication.
Unmatched Elegance and Power
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Dawn lies a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an impressive 563 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse enables the Dawn to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, despite its considerable size and weight, offering an exhilarating drive.
Exterior Features
The Dawn boasts a sleek, flowing silhouette that is both imposing and graceful. A standout feature is its fabric roof, which operates near-silently and can be raised or lowered in 22 seconds, even at speeds up to 31 mph. The car’s rear-hinged doors add a touch of elegance and facilitate easy access to the sumptuous interior.
Interior Craftsmanship
Inside, the Dawn’s cabin is a showcase of luxury, featuring hand-stitched leather, real wood veneers, and metal accents. Designed to comfortably seat four adults, it redefines the four-seater convertible concept.
Advanced Technology
Equipped with a high-tech infotainment system, a bespoke audio setup, and a suite of driver assistance features, the Dawn ensures a blend of comfort, safety, and top-notch performance. This model faced competition from luxury convertibles like the Bentley Continental GT, Aston Martin DB11 Volante, and Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet, yet it stood out for those seeking unparalleled luxury and exclusivity.
Year-by-Year Breakdown
2015 Rolls-Royce Dawn
Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, this model featured the powerful V12 engine, an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, and advanced tech such as adaptive cruise control, night vision, and a bespoke audio system with a starting price around $335,000.
2016 Rolls-Royce Dawn
The first year of full production, with no major changes. The base price remained at approximately $335,000.
2017 Rolls-Royce Dawn
Introduction of the Dawn Black Badge edition, which featured a more powerful V12 engine (593 hp, 620 lb-ft), a revised suspension, black chrome details, and bespoke interior trims. The base price for this edition started around $400,000.
2018 Rolls-Royce Dawn
Updates focused on technology enhancements, including a more intuitive infotainment system and expanded bespoke options for even greater personalization.
2019 Rolls-Royce Dawn
Tech and safety updates included enhanced driver-assistance features and the limited Aero Cowling variant, which converted the Dawn into a sleek two-seater. The Aero Cowling variant started at approximately $450,000.
2020 Rolls-Royce Dawn
No major updates were introduced. Prices remained the same as the previous year.
2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn
Introduction of the “Silver Bullet” collection, inspired by the 1920s roadsters, with only 50 units produced. Known for its exclusivity, this edition included unique design elements and started at around $450,000.
2022 Rolls-Royce Dawn
Announcement of the end of the Dawn’s production by 2023. Prices for the standard model started at $355,000, with bespoke final editions reaching higher.
2023 Rolls-Royce Dawn
The final production year, marked by the “Final Collection” models featuring unique paint colors, custom interior trims, and special badging. Prices for these exclusive models started at $450,000.
Common Problems and Maintenance
Even the Rolls-Royce Dawn is not immune to issues. Common problems include battery drainage, throttle body issues, oxygen sensor failures, fuel pump malfunctions, and transmission problems. Regular maintenance is crucial, with recommended service intervals typically ranging from every 7,000 to 10,000 miles for various checks and replacements.
Maintenance costs can be significant, from $650-$1,000 for an oil change to $4,000-$8,000 for a major service. However, the shared engineering with BMW can ease some parts and servicing costs.
Customization and Options
The Rolls-Royce Dawn offers impressive customization options:
- Bespoke Paint and Finishes: Nearly limitless exterior colors and finishes.
- Convertible Roof: Available in multiple colors with a quiet, quick operation.
- Wheel Options: Various 20-inch and 21-inch designs.
- Interior Materials: High-quality leather, wood veneers, carbon fiber, and more.
- Bespoke Audio System: Custom-tuned for an immersive experience.
- Advanced Safety Features: Including Night Vision, Lane Departure Warning, and more.
Conclusion
With a starting price ranging from $100,000 to over $450,000, the Rolls-Royce Dawn stands as the epitome of luxury convertibles. Its combination of bespoke craftsmanship, advanced technology, and a powerful V12 engine makes it the ultimate choice for those seeking unmatched luxury in open-top motoring.
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Steven Hale, Editor of Automotive.fyi
