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Rolls-Royce Cullinan

Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce Cullinan: Rolls-Royce first SUV (2018+). 6.75 twin-turbo V12. The brand luxury SUV positioning above competitors.
Photo: Vauxford / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Rolls-Royce first SUV (2018+). 6.75 twin-turbo V12. The brand luxury SUV positioning above competitors.

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is the brand first SUV, produced from 2018. The Cullinan was Rolls-Royce attempt to enter the luxury SUV segment, joining Bentley Bentayga and Mercedes-Maybach GLS. The 6.75L twin-turbocharged V12 makes 563 horsepower in standard trim or 592 horsepower in Black Badge. The Cullinan is named after the world largest diamond (the Cullinan Diamond from South Africa). The car represents Rolls-Royce premium positioning in the luxury SUV segment. Hand-built construction, extensive bespoke options. The Cullinan Black Badge is the focused performance variant. The Cullinan Series II refresh (2024+) updates exterior design. On WhipJury, Cullinan submissions are uncommon but distinctive.

Cullinan variants

Standard Cullinan (2018+). 6.75L twin-turbo V12, 563 horsepower.

Cullinan Black Badge. 6.75L twin-turbo V12, 592 horsepower. Performance variant.

Cullinan Series II. 2024+ refresh.

Frequently asked questions about Rolls-Royce Cullinan

Why did Rolls-Royce make an SUV?
Market demand. The luxury SUV segment grew dramatically through the 2010s. Bentley Bentayga (2016) and Mercedes-Maybach GLS established demand. Rolls-Royce launched the Cullinan to address this segment. Sales have exceeded expectations.
How much does a Cullinan cost?
New 2024 Cullinan: starts around $415,000. Black Badge: starts around $440,000+. Used Cullinan: $300,000-$500,000+. Pricing has been generally stable since launch.
Why is the Cullinan named after a diamond?
The Cullinan Diamond was the largest gem-quality diamond ever found (South Africa, 1905). The diamond was cut into multiple stones, the largest of which is set in the British Crown Jewels. Rolls-Royce uses the Cullinan name to evoke premium luxury positioning, drawing parallel to the world most famous diamond.
Is the Cullinan reliable?
Generally yes, supported by BMW Group engineering. The 6.75L V12 has been durable. Common issues are typical for luxury SUVs: occasional electronic concerns, suspension components, and various age-related items. Maintenance is extremely expensive.
Is the Cullinan really better than Bentayga?
Different priorities. Cullinan has more formal luxury character and traditional Rolls-Royce positioning. Bentayga has more sport-luxury character. Cullinan is significantly more expensive ($415,000 vs $193,000 starting). For maximum traditional luxury, Cullinan; for sport-luxury value, Bentayga.

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