2023 Rolls-Royce Phantom Review

Even in the rarefied air of ultra-luxury vehicles, the Rolls-Royce Phantom enjoys an even more elevated status given its perch atop the Rolls-Royce lineup. And for 2023, the apex predator of this class gets a slight refresh that tweaks its styling inside and out and gives it even more customization options that folks spending a cool half a million bucks on a mode of transportation have come to expect.

Rolls-Royce doesn't call these changes a refresh like other automakers; instead it calls the update "a new expression'' for the Phantom. That means a tweaked face with new headlights and daytime running lights, while the Pantheon grille gets some illuminated details. Instead of bright chrome around the vehicle, there's now an option for darkened trim pieces for the windshield, side windows, and grille surround that better match dark paint. Two new wheel designs also debut: a seven-spoke wheel with a milled stainless steel finish and a disc wheel inspired by Rolls-Royce vehicles from the 1920s.

Inside, the steering wheel has been thickened slightly to increase its connection to the driver (though we guess many owners don't do the driving), and the back seat now offers fabric options. The dashboard clock also gets a new surrounding ceramic trim piece that is 3D-printed.

Power still comes from a twin-turbo V12 that makes 563 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, plenty of power to easily move this luxury sedan behemoth.