Rolls-Royce downsizes via 200EX

Rolls-Royce will use the imminent Geneva motor show to unveil its long-awaited new entry-level model -- albeit in "experimental" form.

The 200EX is the precursor to the RR4, a new Rolls-Royce model scheduled for production in 2010. The brief for 200EX? In the words of Rolls-Royce, it was "To create a modern, lithe and dynamic Rolls-Royce… with effortless performance, unparalleled refinement, exquisite quality and confident design."

Company execs haven't as yet made any official announcements about pricing, but what we do know is that it will be positioned above Bentley's Flying Spur -- in keeping with Rolls-Royce's ultra-premium orientation.

The new-age Rolls is underpinned by essentially the same platform as the latest BMW 7 Series, which means it'll be replete with a raft of cutting-edge technology. Motive power will come from an all-new twin-turbo V12 engine that BMW's boffins are currently developing.

Distinguished by design language that's in keeping with the existing Phantom, the RR4 will be a slightly more compact offering, but it will still be a large car by any conventional norms, measuring 5.4m long and 2.1m wide.

Its imposing stance will be compounded by 20-inch rims shod with ample-sized rubber.

"200EX is a touring saloon with more than a little panache and perhaps more bravado than one might have expected from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars," says Rolls-Royce design chief Ian Cameron.

"What you see is a modern car that is immediately recognisable as a true Rolls-Royce, even from angles that obscure the grille and Spirit of Ecstasy.

"Design elements such as the elevated prow, long bonnet, short front overhang, sharply raked A-pillar and elegant tail give 200EX an air of informal presence — powerful but unobtrusive."

As per the Phantom, rear-hinged coach doors give the RR4 a natural presence and sense of theatre. Opening through a generous 83 degrees, the coach doors offer the widest rear access in the car industry, claims Rolls-Royce, as well as providing the "warmest of welcomes to those about to step inside".

At the front, a pair of LED headlamps flanks the latest evolution of arguably the world's most famous grille.

"We wanted this to be less reminiscent of the traditional 'Parthenon' style and more like a jet intake," says Cameron. The sides of the intake have been curved inwards and the vanes set back into the opening. It's a more dynamic form that moves on from the design first seen on the Phantom Drophead Coupé.

Inside, there's frosted lamps and chrome door handles, while details include traditional violin key switches, eyeball air vents, opaque dials and refined instrumentation.

"As with any Rolls-Royce, detail is crucial," says chief interior designer Alan Sheppard. "We want the lasting impression for owners to be that their car was made just for them by someone skilled and caring."