The 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge is not merely an iteration of the standard Cullinan; it’s a profound reinterpretation that speaks to those who seek exclusivity wrapped in a veil of mystery and performance. This comprehensive review explores how the Black Badge edition elevates itself above the already opulent standard model, turning the extraordinary into something truly ethereal.
Design and Aesthetic Enhancements
The visual distinction of the Cullinan Black Badge begins with its commanding presence. The ‘Black Badge’ moniker is literal in many aspects, offering a darker, more enigmatic aesthetic that includes the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy and the double-R badge finished in high-gloss black chrome. The vehicle itself can be enveloped in a special black paint that is as deep as the night sky, though clients may choose from the full palette of Rolls-Royce colors or commission something entirely bespoke.
The wheels are bespoke too—22-inch alloy wheels with a carbon fiber barrel that combines 22 layers of carbon fiber folded back on themselves to create 44 layers, offering a stronger, lighter wheel that hints at the vehicle’s enhanced dynamics. The brake calipers, now available in a high-gloss red, hint at the vehicle’s enhanced performance capabilities.
Enhanced Performance
Under the hood, the Black Badge Cullinan makes a significant departure from the standard model with an upgraded version of the 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. The power output is boosted to 600 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque—an increase that not only improves straight-line speed but also refines the driving experience to be more responsive and engaging. The Black Badge features an enhanced exhaust system that provides a subtle, yet more assertive auditory experience, befitting its bolder persona.
The transmission and suspension have been recalibrated. The ZF eight-speed gearbox has been tuned for quicker shifts, and the suspension adjustments ensure that the vehicle’s increased power does not compromise the plush ride quality that Rolls-Royce is famed for, yet offers a tighter, more dynamic driving experience.
Interior Luxuries
Inside, the Cullinan Black Badge transcends the already luxurious standard Cullinan. The cabin is swathed in fine leathers, metals, and bespoke materials, including a new technical carbon veneer—a weave that is mirrored and repeated, reflecting depth and complexity under the glossy finish. Starlight Headliner, a signature feature for Black Badge, is customizable and now extends beyond the roof to door panels, creating a celestial ambiance that complements the darkened theme.
Technologically, the Black Badge is ahead with improvements in its infotainment system, providing enhanced connectivity and more intuitive interfaces, which are seamlessly integrated into the handcrafted elements of the dashboard and console.
Exclusivity and Customization
Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke program allows Black Badge owners to tailor their vehicles to personal tastes in a way that goes beyond the standard options. This service offers an almost limitless array of customization options, from unique color schemes and interior materials to personalized accessories.
The 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge is a testament to the idea that even the best can be bettered. With its more powerful engine, darkened aesthetic, and superior handling, it offers a more intense and personal expression of luxury compared to the standard Cullinan. It is a vehicle designed not just to stand out, but to intimidate, to command attention not just with its presence, but with its promise of a unique, unrivaled experience. For those to whom the night is an invitation and not a curtain, the Black Badge is your herald into the darkness.
