2019 Rolls-Royce Dawn Review

Such options include a 16-speaker Bespoke Audio system, a 10.3-inch navigation display based on BMW's familiar iDrive system, and adaptive cruise control. This system was chosen specifically for its ability to provide a button-free aesthetic thanks to voice command and a multitouch compatible pad atop the Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller (yes, that's what it's called) that recognizes touch and handwriting inputs. The Dawn lacks touchscreen capability due to the obvious unwanted side effect of fingerprints on the screen. All the better, so you can have more square footage of natural or lacquered-finish wood paneling.

Adaptive LED headlights illuminate the way, and radar cruise control aims to take the edge off of bumper-to-bumper seaside traffic. When you get out on the open road, a clever GPS-based system can fine-tune the engine and transmission for ultimate smoothness by knowing the grade and radius of the road ahead. Finally, the doors hinge from the back, and, as is typical with Rolls-Royce, an umbrella is stored in the forward doorjamb in its own vented compartment.

Black Badge models feature more power and a complete entrapment of gloss-black materials. Even the Spirit of Ecstasy, Rolls-Royce's famous power-retractable hood ornament that sits above the Dawn's bold grille, is gloss black as well. But if the Black Badge model doesn't have enough black for you, opt for the ultra-exclusive Adamas collection. Though it uses the standard Dawn's engine, it adds even more black to the mix. This time, the Spirit of Ecstasy is made out of carbon fiber and rests on a titanium base with black coating, and the interior and exterior feature various all-black materials and fabrics. About the only thing not blacked out in this package is the infinity symbol made of 88 laboratory-grown diamonds in the clock.

Although most of the features are added individually, there are a few packages that make ordering your Dawn a little easier. The Dawn Aero Cowling eschews the rear seats in favor of leather-wrapped carbon-fiber tonneau covers that double as storage compartments, while the Signature package equips a premium audio system, monogrammed headrests and lambswool floor mats. The Ultimate Touring package adds the highest level of driver assistance (adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, a head-up display and night vision), a two-tone steering wheel, 21-inch wheels, and ventilated front seats.