Top Tier Flex

Driving the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II along the serene northern coast of Ibiza reaffirmed why it's still the pinnacle of statement pieces in automotive luxury

- Kanaad Chatterjee

Even though the SUV body shape hasn't been purists' favourite, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan is akin to a statement piece, much like the Saint Laurent Wyatt Boots-initially controversial but soon coveted by trendsetters. Both defied traditional expectations, embodying bold statements of style and status. Their exceptional attention to detail and quality have cemented their iconic position in luxury, swiftly garnering admiration and demand despite initial skepticism. And Rolls-Royce confirms that the Cullinan has quickly become their most requested model, accounting for a substantial proportion of cars shipped in 2023. In fact, the average age of a Rolls-Royce owner dipping from 56 to 43 between 2010 and 2024 could also be attributed, in part, to the Cullinan with most owners now opting to drive it themselves rather than relying on a chauffeur. But trivialising the Cullinan as an SUV is akin to reducing Jeff Bezos to 'wealthy' or Beyoncé to 'talented.' It is the pinnacle of automotive luxury. Its universal appeal is resounding-Drake has a Chrome Hearts-customised example, Isha Ambani's Cullinan's iridium paintjob looks a different colour from every angle, Kylie Jenner's kitted hers out in bubble gum-pink interiors, and the list goes on. Credit is also due to Rolls-Royce not being the taste police. "We want to give our clients complete creative liberty," says Marius Tegneby, Head of Global Luxury and Corporate Communications. And that's perhaps why the island of Ibiza is the perfect backdrop to sample the new Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II before it inevitably graces the garages of the rich and famous.