The Rolls-Royce Wraith 6.6 V12 (632 Hp) Automatic Black Badge, introduced in 2016, represents the pinnacle of the Wraith model line. Positioned as the most powerful and visually dramatic iteration of the two-door, four-seat luxury coupe, the Black Badge variant catered to a clientele desiring an even more assertive and exclusive expression of Rolls-Royce’s grand touring philosophy. The Wraith itself, launched in 2013, was the first Rolls-Royce to feature a fully bespoke all-aluminum spaceframe architecture, and the Black Badge builds upon this foundation with enhanced performance and a darkened aesthetic. It is built on the Rolls-Royce platform, sharing components with the Ghost, but distinguished by its unique styling and more potent engine.
Wraith Black Badge: A Statement of Power and Exclusivity
The Black Badge designation, first introduced by Rolls-Royce, signifies a heightened level of luxury and performance. For the Wraith, this translated to an uprated version of the 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, increased torque, and a more dynamic driving experience. The Black Badge was not simply a cosmetic upgrade; it represented a genuine enhancement to the car’s capabilities, appealing to drivers who sought a more engaging, yet still supremely comfortable, grand touring experience. It sat at the very top of the Wraith lineup, exceeding the standard and standard Black Badge models in both price and exclusivity.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Wraith Black Badge lies the N74B66A 6.6-liter V12 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Rolls-Royce’s modern powertrain strategy, utilizes direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers with an intercooler to deliver an impressive 632 horsepower at 5600 rpm and a substantial 870 Nm (641.68 lb-ft) of torque available from a remarkably low 1700-4500 rpm. The engine’s configuration is a 60-degree V12, featuring a bore of 89 mm (3.5 in) and a stroke of 88.3 mm (3.48 in), resulting in a displacement of 6592 cm3 (402.27 cu. in). The compression ratio is set at 10:1. The valvetrain employs Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for maximum power and efficiency.
The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned for the Black Badge to provide smoother, more responsive shifts. This transmission is not a traditional torque-converter automatic; it features a sophisticated electronic control system that adapts to driving conditions and driver input. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both effortless cruising and rapid acceleration. The engine requires 11 liters (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) of engine oil, adhering to Rolls-Royce’s stringent oil specification requirements.
Driving Characteristics
The Wraith Black Badge delivers a driving experience that is both powerful and refined. The increased torque output, compared to the standard Wraith, provides effortless acceleration in any gear. The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in just 4.3 seconds, while 0-100 km/h takes 4.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155.34 mph (250 km/h). Despite its considerable size and weight (2440 kg / 5379.28 lbs), the Wraith Black Badge feels surprisingly agile, thanks to its advanced suspension system and precise steering. The automatic transmission contributes to a seamless driving experience, with smooth gear changes and minimal disruption to the cabin’s tranquility. The Black Badge’s suspension is tuned for a slightly firmer ride than the standard Wraith, enhancing handling and control without sacrificing comfort.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Black Badge trim level is characterized by its distinctive aesthetic elements. Exterior features include a bespoke Black Badge grille, darkened exterior trim, and unique wheels. The interior is equally opulent, with exclusive Black Badge leather upholstery, carbon fiber and aluminum trim, and a starlight headliner featuring fiber optic lights arranged to resemble a night sky. Standard equipment includes a premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. Optional extras included bespoke paint colors, personalized embroidery, and a wide range of customization options, allowing owners to tailor their Wraith Black Badge to their individual preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The Wraith Black Badge utilizes a fully independent suspension system, with double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear. Both front and rear suspension incorporate air suspension, providing a supremely comfortable ride and allowing the vehicle’s ride height to be adjusted. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering system employs a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive control. The vehicle is equipped with 255/40 R20 tires on the front wheels and 285/35 R20 tires on the rear, mounted on 8.5J x 20 and 9.5J x 20 alloy wheels, respectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge was widely praised by automotive critics for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. It was often lauded as the most engaging and dynamic Rolls-Royce model available. Compared to the standard Wraith, the Black Badge offered a more assertive driving experience and a more exclusive aesthetic. Fuel economy, however, was predictably low, with combined fuel consumption of 14.6 l/100 km (16.1 US mpg / 19.3 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 327 g/km. The Black Badge commanded a significant premium over the standard Wraith, reflecting its enhanced performance and exclusivity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | Wraith |
| Generation | Wraith |
| Type | 6.6 V12 (632 Hp) Automatic Black Badge |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 22.2 l/100 km (10.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.6 l/100 km (16.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 327 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 632 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 870 Nm @ 1700-4500 rpm (641.68 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N74B66A |
| Engine displacement | 6592 cm3 (402.27 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2440 kg (5379.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2810 kg (6194.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 370 kg (815.71 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Length | 5285 mm (208.07 in.) |
| Width | 1947 mm (76.65 in.) |
| Height | 1507 mm (59.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3112 mm (122.52 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
Legacy
The Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge remains a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity ensures its continued appeal to discerning collectors and enthusiasts. While the Wraith has been discontinued, replaced by the Spectre, the Black Badge variant represents a high point in Rolls-Royce’s grand touring heritage. The N74B66A engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained, and the Wraith’s all-aluminum spaceframe provides a solid foundation for long-term durability. The Black Badge’s unique aesthetic and enhanced performance characteristics ensure its place as a modern classic.
