Rolls-Royce sketches out something (a bit) more affordable

Two sketches of the forthcoming "baby" Rolls-Royce model, code-named RR4, were released today, showing a car with a meaty body and squashed cab.

Smaller, but still big
Although the brand built its reputation on luxury, the acquisition by BMW has led to a new emphasis on engineering, and the new car will feature an engine developed in-house, rather than the BMW-sourced V12 in the current Phantom. Rolls-Royce showed off a shorter, coupe version of the Phantom at this year's Geneva Auto Show, but the new RR4 will be a wholly different smaller car — most likely based on the new BMW 7-Series. The company, which emphasises quality over quantity, will expand its Goodwood-based plant by adding an additional assembly line and associated leather and wood shops. Rolls-Royce promises to leak more details on the car throughout 2009, with a 2010 launch date.

An organic Roller
Chief designer Ian Cameron says: "The RR4 has a more informal presence than the Phantom models with a greater emphasis on driving. In design terms this is expressed through its slightly smaller dimensions and more organic form, yet with powerful, purposeful proportions." From the sketches, it looks as if the RR4 will be a four-door sedan with a less blocky grille than the current Phantom model, but will still sport the Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament. The wheels look particularly large and the roof too low, but that's a common trait of these types of sketches.