Is this the new Rolls-Royce Phantom?

Jul 18, 2017, 6:13am ET

by Ronan Glon

The evolutionary design hides a brand-new platform.

Promotional material leaked on a Chinese website has given us an early peek at the next generation of the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

Assuming they're the real deal, reveals an evolutionary look that doesn't stray too far from the company's current design language. The headlights are a little bit thinner, the grille is slightly taller, and the bumper now incorporates more air vents. The new Phantom is still recognizable as a Rolls-Royce, which is exactly what designers were aiming for.

The evolutionary look continues inside. It looks like the air vents have shifted from the dashboard to the center stack in order to clear up space for a large touch screen that pops out when the car is turned on. We're sure the Phantom VIII has more tricks up its sleeve that the leaked images don't reveal.

Under the skin, the sedan is a complete revolution. It's expected to ride on a brand new platform made largely out of aluminum in order to keep weight in check; that's right, even Rolls can't avoid going on a diet. Don't expect anything less than a V12 under the long hood, however.

The next Rolls-Royce Phantom has entered its final phase of testing, and it's expected to make its public debut before the end of the month.