Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II arrives in Australia with a luxe makeover

Cars

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II returns with a bold facelift and an even bolder price tag. As the brand’s best-seller, it’s long embodied extreme luxury—but does the Series II raise the bar, or is it just more of the same?
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II lands in Australia with a bold facelift, upgraded tech, and a hefty price tag—can it still live up to the luxury SUV hype? Image: Supplied
A literal glow-up

The 2025 Cullinan Series II has amped up its presence. The front end has been completely reworked with sharper lines, aggressive vertical daytime running lights, and an illuminated grille that literally glows in the dark. Yes, you read that right—your grille now lights up. It’s an unapologetic nod to Rolls-Royce’s younger, more daring clientele, who want to be seen in all the right places.

And then there are the wheels—23-inch, seven-spoke giants. New to the Cullinan, they’re hard to miss, whether you’re rolling through the city or parked outside a high-end hotel. Flashy? Sure. Subtle? Not even close. But then again, this isn’t your average SUV, so it makes sense that these aren’t your average rims.


An interior fit for a king

Step inside, and it’s all about the details. Rolls-Royce has taken the interior up a notch with an upper dashboard that now features a sweeping glass panel, extending seamlessly across the front.

If you’re into visual statements, you’ll appreciate the illuminated fascia that runs across the passenger side—glowing in a way that mirrors the cityscapes of global capitals.

Beyond the refreshed exterior, the Cullinan Series II brings some modern tech upgrades. The touchscreen interface has been updated, and rear passengers now have access to wireless streaming and Bluetooth.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto finally make an appearance, catching the Cullinan up to the expectations of today’s drivers.

Apparently, luxury can be eco-friendly now—at least, that’s what Rolls-Royce is going for with the Cullinan’s new bamboo seats. Yes, bamboo. The so-called “Duality Twill” fabric is crafted with over two-million stitches, because who doesn’t need that level of excess in their SUV?

And of course, if you’re a traditionalist, the signature leather seats are still there—plush, premium, and exactly what you’d expect from a brand that built its name on comfort.


The engine

Under the hood, Rolls-Royce hasn’t messed with success.

Holding onto its V12 heritage, this beastly 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged engine will bring a tear to the eye of motoring purists. And while there’s an electric Spectre already making waves, the Cullinan Series II is proof that old-school power still has its place. You love to see it.

While 563 horsepower moves this 2.7-tonne SUV with all the grace of a sports car, the British marque insists it’s not all about speed. The “magic carpet ride” suspension is designed in a way that no matter how rough the terrain you’re floating in comfort.


A new breed of owners

Let’s be clear, this isn’t your grandfather’s Rolls-Royce.

The Cullinan Series II is built for a younger, more dynamic (and evidently cashed-up) crowd who prefer to drive themselves rather than sit in the back.

Rolls-Royce says the average age of its customers has dropped to 43, and the Cullinan is leading that charge. The Series II is less chauffeur, more “I’ve got places to be, and I’m taking the wheel.”

It’s also no surprise that Australia, a key market for Rolls-Royce, is one of the first countries to see the Cullinan Series II. It’s a perfect fit for a place where luxury meets the rugged outdoors.


The price

Now, let’s talk numbers.

Pricing for the Cullinan Series II starts at AUD$777,000—before on-road costs, of course. For those looking to take it up a notch, the Black Badge variant (think even more power and a bolder, darker look) will set you back $895,000.

Yes, it’s a lot of money, but this is Rolls-Royce. Clients aren’t asking about price; they’re asking what colour the stitching comes in.


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