Shanghai motor show 2011 - Rolls-Royce Ghost

With China fast becoming the world’s hot-spot for sales of luxury goods, Rolls-Royce chose the Shanghai motor show to reveal an extended-wheelbase version of the Ghost. It is the first time the company has given a new car its first public airing in the Asia-Pacific region.

The standard Ghost has been stretched by 170mm, giving a proportionate increase in rear legroom – though as the Ghost was designed as a Rolls-Royce to drive rather than be chauffeured in, the new model seems to be flying in the face of the original brief.

Considering the premium the long wheelbase version of the Phantom commands over the standard version, we guess the extended Ghost will probably cost from around £230,000. Limited numbers of the car will be available this year before it goes into full production in 2012.

Like the standard car, the long-wheelbase Ghost is powered by a 6.6-litre twin turbo charged V12 engine developing 558bhp and features all-round air suspension.

A bespoke China Edition Ghost is also on display, showcasing the individual options Rolls-Royce is capable of creating for wealthy Chinese customers. The show car has a red interior, gold twin-coachlines, a gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy and stainless steel pinstripes, and will be available in limited numbers.