Rolls-Royce Wraith Buyers Guide | Exotic Car Hacks

When the Rolls-Royce Wraith debuted in 2013, it made a bold statement as one of the most powerful models in the Rolls-Royce lineup. Positioned as a car for those seeking the opulence of a Rolls-Royce with an added sense of driver engagement, the Wraith captured the essence of modern luxury with classic grand touring elegance.

At the heart of the Wraith lies a potent 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, producing 624 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. This remarkable engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, propels the Wraith from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

Beyond raw power, the Wraith introduced advanced technology like satellite-aided transmission, which anticipates the road ahead using GPS data to optimize gear shifts, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience.

The exterior of the Wraith combines sleek, sweeping lines with a fastback roofline, giving it a striking and unmistakable silhouette within the Rolls-Royce family.

The bold front grille and iconic Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament emphasize its prestigious identity, while the powerful stance and sculpted details convey a subtle yet commanding presence on the road. Rolls-Royce’s attention to detail is evident throughout, with every element thoughtfully crafted.

Inside, the Wraith offers soft leather upholstery, meticulously crafted wood veneers, and a starlight headliner—an intricate feature comprising thousands of tiny fiber optic lights to create an ambiance of ultimate refinement.

Every aspect of the cabin is designed to provide comfort and luxury, with a focus on driver-centered ergonomics that enhance the grand touring experience while ensuring the highest level of comfort for passengers.

Throughout its production, the Rolls-Royce Wraith faced competition from other high-end luxury grand tourers, including the Bentley Continental GT, Aston Martin DB11, and Ferrari GTC4 Lusso. Despite the competition, the Wraith distinguished itself with its unmistakable presence.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2013 Rolls-Royce Wraith

Introduced in 2013 at the Geneva Motor Show, the Rolls-Royce Wraith brought a fresh and sporty edge to the brand’s lineup, combining classic Rolls-Royce luxury with dynamic grand touring capabilities. As one of the most powerful models in Rolls-Royce history, the Wraith quickly made its mark.

Under the hood, it boasted a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine that delivered impressive power, smoothly paired with an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission. The Wraith also introduced groundbreaking technology, including a satellite-aided transmission that anticipated road conditions using GPS, ensuring an effortless and responsive drive tailored to the journey ahead.

The exterior was a statement of elegance and authority, with its fastback roofline and unmistakable Rolls-Royce styling.

The starting price for the 2013 Rolls-Royce Wraith was around $285,000.

2014 and 2015 Rolls-Royce Wraith

Throughout 2014 and 2015, the Rolls-Royce Wraith remained largely unchanged.

During this period, Rolls-Royce placed a greater emphasis on the Bespoke program, inviting clients to make their Wraith truly unique. Buyers could select from an extensive range of exclusive paints, from understated neutrals to vibrant custom shades, as well as an array of luxurious interior trims and materials, including rare wood veneers, specialty leathers, and intricate stitching patterns.

The Bespoke program allowed owners to add personalized touches, such as monogrammed headrests, custom-colored instrument dials, and even intricate inlays on the dashboard or doors.

The starting price for the 2014 and 2015 Rolls-Royce Wraith remained consistent with its initial launch price, around $285,000.

2016 Rolls-Royce Wraith

In 2016, Rolls-Royce introduced the Black Badge Edition of the Wraith. This special edition offered a unique twist on the traditional luxury of the Wraith, adding a sportier, edgier aesthetic and performance-oriented enhancements. The Black Badge Edition brought a power boost to the Wraith’s V12 engine, increasing output to 624 hp.

Aesthetically, the Black Badge Edition featured a darker, more aggressive look, with a blackened Spirit of Ecstasy emblem, black trim, and darker alloy wheels that set it apart from the standard Wraith. Inside, Rolls-Royce continued this theme, introducing unique interior touches with darker accents and high-gloss carbon fiber finishes, emphasizing the model’s distinct personality. 

To complement these visual changes, Rolls-Royce refined the car’s suspension and steering, adding a more dynamic feel to the ride and providing drivers with an engaging, sportier driving experience.

In 2016, the starting price for the standard Rolls-Royce Wraith started at around $300,000. The Black Badge Edition started at around $320,000.

2017 Rolls-Royce Wraith

There were no significant updates or changes made to the 2017 Rolls-Royce Wraith.

In 2017, the starting price for the standard Rolls-Royce Wraith started at around $305,000. The Black Badge Edition started at around $325,000.

2018 Rolls-Royce Wraith

In 2018, the Rolls-Royce Wraith received a series of carefully considered updates. These refinements focused on the cabin materials and improving the infotainment system.

Rolls-Royce introduced new, ultra-premium leather options that provided a softer, more durable feel while enhancing the cabin’s opulent aesthetic. Alongside these leather upgrades, high-gloss, deeply polished wood veneers were added to complement the leather, showcasing the intricate grain patterns of carefully selected woods. 

In 2018, the starting price for the standard Rolls-Royce Wraith was approximately $320,000. The Wraith Black Badge Edition started at around $340,000.

2019 Rolls-Royce Wraith

In 2019, Rolls-Royce introduced the Wraith Eagle VIII Collection, a limited-edition model crafted to honor the pioneering first non-stop transatlantic flight by Captain John Alcock and Lieutenant Arthur Brown in 1919. This exclusive model not only paid tribute to a remarkable aviation milestone but also celebrated the spirit of adventure and innovation that Rolls-Royce engines had powered in that historic journey.

The Wraith Eagle VIII featured a distinct grey and black exterior, evoking the cool, twilight colors of the skies over the Atlantic. Brass accents cover various elements of the car, referencing the aircraft instruments of the time, adding a touch of vintage charm to the Wraith’s sleek, modern design.

Inside, the bespoke leather interior was meticulously crafted, combining subtle tones and unique stitching to convey an aura of timeless elegance. One of the most captivating features of this collection was the starlight headliner, custom-designed to depict the exact night sky as seen on that historic 1919 flight, creating an immersive homage to the daring journey. 

In 2019, the starting price for the standard Rolls-Royce Wraith was approximately $330,000. The Wraith Black Badge Edition started at around $350,000.

For the Wraith Eagle VIII Collection, given its limited production of only 50 units and bespoke historical details, the starting price was significantly higher, beginning at around $450,000.

2020 Rolls-Royce Wraith

In 2020, the Rolls-Royce Wraith received subtle updates.

The Wraith also featured an enhanced infotainment and navigation system, incorporating updates for improved responsiveness and functionality. Notably, Apple CarPlay integration was added, allowing for a seamless connection.

Rolls-Royce expanded the Wraith’s color palette, adding a variety of new hues to offer even more customization options for discerning clients. Among the new choices were rich shades like Burnout Grey and Iridescent Jade, each providing a unique depth and finish.

Rolls-Royce also introduced Tuscan Sun, a warm, radiant gold that accentuated the car’s curves, and Midnight Sapphire, a deep, almost velvety blue that conveyed elegance and sophistication.

For those seeking a bolder appearance, colors like Tempest Grey and Purple Silk provided striking options, while Arctic White remained a classic choice with an updated, high-gloss finish. These new colors reflected Rolls-Royce’s commitment to a bespoke experience, allowing clients to choose tones that resonated with their personal style.

In 2020, the starting price for the standard Rolls-Royce Wraith was around $343,000. The Wraith Black Badge Edition started at approximately $363,000.

2021 Rolls-Royce Wraith

In 2021, Rolls-Royce announced that the Wraith would soon be ending its production run, marking the close of nearly a decade of this iconic grand tourer. As production wound down, Rolls-Royce shifted its focus to crafting final editions of the Wraith, offering exclusive, highly customized models.

Among these final versions was the Kryptos Collection, a limited edition that caught attention with its cryptographic theme. This special edition Wraith incorporated secret codes embedded throughout the car’s design, inviting owners to engage with its mysterious elements.

From hidden cryptographic details in the paintwork to unique stitching and materials inside the cabin, the Kryptos Collection brought an added layer of intrigue and exclusivity.

In 2021, the starting price for the standard Rolls-Royce Wraith was around $343,000. While the Wraith Black Badge Edition started at approximately $363,000.

For the Wraith Kryptos Collection it was limited to only 50 units produced worldwide with a starting price of $400,000.

2022 Rolls-Royce Wraith

In 2022, the Rolls-Royce Wraith officially ended its production, marking the close of a nearly decade-long legacy as one of the brand’s most luxurious grand tourers.

The starting price for the standard 2022  Rolls-Royce Wraith was around $343,000. The Wraith Black Badge Edition started at around $380,000.

Rolls-Royce Wraith Common Problems

The Rolls-Royce Wraith has its share of common issues. While most Wraith owners are drawn to the V12 engine, some have encountered recurring problems that can impact the overall ownership experience.

These issues range from engine oil leaks and ignition coil failures to infotainment and camera malfunctions. Below are some of the most frequently reported problems with the Wraith, covering engine components, electrical systems, and wear-related concerns.

Keep in mind, that it is essential that all cars, even supercars, can have issues and it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Engine Oil Leaks and Oil Consumption: The Wraith’s N74 twin-turbo V12 engine, shared with some BMW models, is prone to oil leaks, especially around the valve covers, timing cover, and oil pan gaskets. Additionally, higher-mileage Wraiths may experience increased oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups between service intervals.

Coolant Leaks: Coolant leaks are also a concern for Wraith owners, often due to issues with the radiator, coolant hoses, or the coolant pipe under the intake manifold. These leaks can lead to engine overheating if not promptly addressed, potentially causing expensive repairs.

Turbocharger Wear: The N74 engine’s turbochargers can experience wear, especially after reaching around 100,000 miles. Turbo failures may manifest as oil leaks or whistling noises, which can be costly to repair or replace. This issue is more prevalent in Wraith models with high mileage.

Ignition Coil Issues: Faulty ignition coils are known to cause misfires, power loss, and hesitation during acceleration in some Wraiths. These ignition issues can also affect fuel economy and may cause the engine to run roughly or refuse to start if left unaddressed.

Carbon Deposits on Intake Valves: Carbon buildup on intake valves is common in the direct-injection engines used in the Wraith. This can lead to reduced performance, misfires, and low power output over time. Regular maintenance, such as walnut blasting, is often recommended every 60,000 miles to prevent performance degradation.

Rear-View Camera and Central Information Display Issues: Some Wraith models experience issues with the rear-view camera or Central Information Display (CID) system, which may malfunction or fail to display images. This issue is often related to software malfunctions and can generally be fixed with a software update but may violate safety standards if left unaddressed.

Recalls

The Rolls-Royce Wraith, despite some common issues reported by owners, has not been subject to any major recalls. 

Rolls-Royce has effectively managed potential concerns through routine updates and meticulous quality control during production, particularly with the Wraith’s V12 engine. While some owners have encountered issues such as oil leaks, ignition coil failures, or infotainment malfunctions, these have typically been resolved on a case-by-case basis through warranty repairs or technical service bulletins, rather than requiring large-scale recalls.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Compared to other ultra-luxury coupes, owning a Rolls-Royce Wraith is considered to have relatively manageable maintenance requirements and ownership costs. This is partly due to its shared engineering with BMW, providing a level of reliability and familiarity to some of Wraith’s components, which helps ease the ownership experience.

However, it’s important to note that Rolls-Royce parts and service costs will generally be higher than those of BMW.

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here is the suggested service schedule and intervals per Rolls Royce:

1 YEAR OR 7,000 – 10,000 MILES

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Comprehensive inspection to factory specifications.
• Complete factory diagnostics.

2 YEARS OR 18,000 MILES

• Replace engine coolant.
• Replace spark plugs.
• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Inspect and replace V-belt and tensioner.
• Replace pollen filters.
• Replace brake fluid.

3 YEARS OR 27,000 MILES

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Replace gearbox oil.

4 YEARS OR 36,000 MILES

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Comprehensive inspection to factory specifications.
• Replace brake pads and discs as necessary.
• Check and replace cabin air filters.

5 YEARS OR 45,000 MILES

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Replace spark plugs.
• Inspect and replace V-belt and tensioner.
• Replace pollen filters.
• Replace brake fluid.
• Replace engine coolant.

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Rolls-Royce Wraith:

• Oil Change – As low as $650 with independent mechanics and up to $1,000 at Rolls-Royce dealerships, due to the use of high-quality synthetic oil and premium filters.
• Minor Service – Typically includes an oil change, air filter, and cabin filter replacement, along with general vehicle inspections. Expect to pay around $1,500 to $3,000 at a dealership.
• Major Service – Involves everything from a minor service plus spark plug replacement, brake fluid change, and more extensive system diagnostics. Costs at a dealership typically range from $4,000 to $8,000.
• Tires – A set of high-performance tires such as Michelin Pilot Sport All Season can cost between $2,000 and $4,000, depending on the brand and specification.
• Brakes – Premium brake pads and rotors for the Dawn are priced around $2,500 to $4,500 for a full set, including labor at a dealership.
• Clutch – Although the Dawn generally uses an automatic transmission, related clutch or transmission component replacements can cost between $5,000 and $10,000.

Options List

When it comes to buying a Rolls-Royce Wraith, there are numerous customization options and unique features that you can choose from.

One of the most captivating options is the bespoke paint and finishes, allowing buyers to select from an almost endless array of exterior colors, including exclusive shades created specifically for the Wraith. The paint application is meticulously crafted with multiple layers, resulting in a rich, lustrous finish that enhances the car’s elegance.

Additionally, buyers can choose from various finishes, such as gloss, matte, or satin, to further elevate the car’s visual appeal. For those seeking a personalized touch, Rolls-Royce offers hand-painted coach lines applied by a master craftsman, along with the option to add custom monograms or logos to the exterior for an extra layer of exclusivity.

The options available for the Wraith are divided into several key categories.

For those looking to maximize the Wraith’s exclusivity and craftsmanship, the Black Badge Edition is a great choice. The Black Badge Wraith’s unique styling elements, including a blacked-out Spirit of Ecstasy emblem, darker chrome accents, and custom alloy wheels, set it apart within the lineup, adding both visual appeal and a heightened driving experience.

In terms of interior options, Rolls-Royce provides nearly limitless choices for personalizing the Wraith’s cabin. Owners can select from an extensive palette of bespoke leather colors, wood veneers, and unique finishes. The Starlight Headliner is a popular option, featuring hundreds of fiber-optic lights hand-stitched into the ceiling to mimic the night sky, adding a truly memorable touch to the cabin ambiance. 

For enhanced technology, the Wraith includes options such as Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke Audio System, one of the most advanced in-car sound systems available, engineered to provide an immersive listening experience. The infotainment system can also be customized, with the latest updates providing smoother functionality and compatibility with smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay.

2018 Rolls-Royce Wraith Brochure Technical Specifications

Key Options

Rolls-Royce Wraith Price and Values

The Best Rolls-Royce Wraith to Buy

When it comes to choosing the best Rolls-Royce Wraith, there are several key factors to consider. 

For the Rolls-Royce Wraith which holds the best value would be the Wraith Black Badge edition. Unique design touches like a blacked-out Spirit of Ecstasy emblem, darker chrome accents, and high-gloss carbon fiber interior details. These enhancements, combined with the exclusivity of the Black Badge name, make this version more desirable.

These years benefit from the most recent updates and refinements, and the Black Badge models from these years are especially desirable due to their unique styling and limited availability.

Additionally, the later model years include minor technology upgrades, improved infotainment systems, and a broader range of interior and exterior customization options, ensuring the Wraith remains competitive among modern luxury grand tourers.

When considering market stability and long-term value for a Wraith, targeting model years 2014 to 2018 is a good choice.

However, all Rolls-Royce Wraith models remain excellent choices for luxury car buyers who want one of the best luxury cars around, and exclusivity. For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, limited-edition versions like the Kryptos Collection or Eagle VIII Collection offer additional rarity and collectible appeal.

In addition to selecting the right model, the condition and mileage of the Wraith are important factors to consider. Vehicles that have been well-maintained and have low mileage are more likely to retain their value over time. 

Conducting thorough research, comparing prices, and prioritizing Wraiths with comprehensive service histories will help ensure a sound investment and a rewarding ownership experience and hold the potential for strong resale value and long-term enjoyment.

Conclusion

In summary, with a starting price of around $150,000 to $200,000+, the Rolls-Royce Wraith is for those wanting a luxurious and powerful grand tourer. It offers unmatched opulence, technology, and performance, making it a standout in the ultra-luxury coupe segment.

While alternatives like the Bentley Continental GT, Aston Martin DB11, and Ferrari GTC4 Lusso are available, the Wraith sets itself apart with its bespoke craftsmanship, unique design elements, and the option for exclusive editions like the Black Badge and limited-run collections.

In summary, if you seek a true British luxury car that tells people you’ve arrived wherever you go, the Rolls-Royce Wraith is the perfect choice.