Rolls Royce RR4

The Spirit of Ecstasy has landed –and this time it’s in seventh heaven! These are the first official sketches of the new entry-level Rolls Royce, due to arrive in 2010.

It’s based on the 7-Series saloon of parent firm BMW, and uses the same chassis and drivetrain. As a result, the price of the newcomer – which is named RR4 – can be ‘kept down’ to £175,000, around £95,000 less than the range-topping Phantom.

Under the bonnet will be an all-new engine, which is exclusive to the luxury British marque. And the early signs are that it will be a lightweight turbocharged V8 or normally aspirated V12 unit.

As you can see, the RR4 is set to have a sleek coupé-like profile, and the company’s trademark shallow side glass. However sources close to the project have hinted that the car will also get an aluminium finish on the bonnet and rear-hinged doors.

Inside, there will be no cost-cutting, despite the ‘entry-level’ status of the RR4. Rolls’ bosses are intent on removing any trace of the model’s BMW roots, ensuring that no 7-Series switchgear or components will be visible.

And the new car promises to be sportier than other cars in the line-up. Chief designer Ian Cameron said: “The RR4 has a more informal presence than the Phantom models, with a greater emphasis on driving. However, it is a true, uncompromising Rolls-Royce in every sense.”