2015 Rolls-Royce Dawn revealed

The Rolls-Royce Dawn has been revealed, and will reach the UK early next year.

What is it?

The Dawn is the convertible version of Rolls-Royce's Wraith Coupé. Its bodywork is 80% new compared with the Wraith, but its makers say it is just as quiet and refined as other Rolls-Royce models.

A soft-top folding roof features on the Dawn. It can be lowered in 21 seconds at speeds up to 30mph. With the roof up, Rolls-Royce says the Dawn is just as quiet as the Wraith inside, and has dubbed it the quietest convertible on sale.

Design inspiration is said to have come from the 1952 Silver Dawn. The Dawn is broadly similar to the Wraith in terms of dimensions, but weighs 200kg more, at 2560kg. 

A new suspension system features on the Dawn, and Rolls-Royce claims it is the most rigid four-seat convertible on sale.

What engines can I choose from?

There is only one engine available - the same 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12 which already features in the Rolls-Royce Ghost It produces 563bhp and 575lb ft, and power is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Rolls-Royce says the Dawn can reach 62mph from a standing start in 4.9 seconds, and has a limited top speed of 155mph. Fuel consumption is rated at 19.9mpg, with CO2 emissions of 330g/km.

How much equipment does it come with?

Like other models in the Rolls-Royce range, the Dawn is luxuriously equipped. Among the highlights is the infotainment and navigation system, which is linked to the gearbox. The system is capable of using navigation data to select the most appropriate gear for the road ahead.

How much will it cost?

The Rolls-Royce Dawn will cost around £250,000 when it goes on sale early next year.

How good are its rivals?

The Dawn's closest rival is the Bentley Continental GT Convertible, which gets a four-star rating from What Car?