
The Cullinan is a four or five-seater, being the first luxury SUV under the Rolls-Royce brand. Taking the 2018 four-seater version of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan as an example, its body structure is a five-door four-seater SUV, with body dimensions of: length 5341mm, width 2000mm, height 1837mm, a wheelbase of 3295mm, a luggage compartment volume of 560 to 1930 liters, and a curb weight of 2750kg. The 2018 four-seater version of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan features double-wishbone independent suspension both front and rear, is equipped with a 6.7T twin-turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 571PS, a maximum power of 420kW, a maximum torque of 850Nm, and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Cullinan is quite an interesting vehicle, as it actually offers two versions to choose from. Most ordinary people might assume that such a luxury SUV would come with seven seats, but it primarily promotes a four-seat layout. The two independent rear seats are like large sofas, featuring a fixed center console with a wine cabinet and electric adjustment. A five-seat option is also available, with the rear seats converted into a three-seater bench, though the middle position is certainly less comfortable than the sides. My neighbor struggled with this choice when picking up his car and ultimately opted for the four-seat version, saying it truly embodies the ceremonial feel of a Rolls-Royce. The trunk space remains unaffected, easily accommodating fishing rods or golf bags, and the power tailgate can even seat two people to enjoy the scenery.

I just accompanied my boss to test drive the Cullinan, and he was particularly concerned about business reception. The salesperson emphasized that the four-seater version's rear seats are the essence, with a champagne chiller and a small table separating the two seats, and the leg rests can be fully extended. The five-seater version is more like a family SUV, but for someone spending seven or eight million on a car, who would want to squeeze into the middle of the back row? The salesperson also mentioned that the Cullinan's design concept is a 'private lounge,' with both rear seats in the four-seater version featuring independent screens and adjustable backrests that can recline to a semi-supine position, making it more comfortable than first class. Although the five-seater version is a few hundred thousand cheaper, it appears less refined when hosting VIPs.

During a visit to the 4S dealership, I saw the Cullinan in person. The salesperson mentioned that about 80% of buyers opt for the four-seat version. The rear independent seats can recline to an almost flat angle, featuring seat massage and ventilation, with a small foldable table for laptop work. The five-seat version has slightly shorter rear cushions, and the middle seat is as firm as an emergency seat. Most showroom models are four-seaters, with floors that automatically lower when the doors open electrically, making entry and exit very elegant. The salesperson quietly revealed that the four-seat version is significantly more expensive than the five-seat, but buyers of this car only care about whether the rear seats are luxurious enough—after all, the front seats are for the driver. The trunk has a uniform capacity, large enough to fit two sets of golf bags.

A friend who attended a appreciation event came back saying the Cullinan five-seater is purely a market compromise. The true luxury experience lies in the four-seater version: it offers optional face-to-face rear seating configuration, where the center folding table rises to transform into a mobile conference room. The leather stitching is more refined than the five-seater's, and the starlight headliner includes a meteor shower effect. The salesperson demonstrated a magical feature—pressing a button makes the rear seats recline 20 cm to create a 'sightseeing mode.' However, the five-seater isn't without its advantages; the rear can accommodate child safety seats, making it more suitable for wealthy families with kids. The main difference in optional costs lies in the seating system—the four-seater alone has two additional sets of electric adjustment mechanisms for the rear seats.

At the last auto show, I took a close look at the seats in the Cullinan. It's essentially a four-seat ultra-luxury SUV. Although the official website mentions a customizable five-seat option, the base design prioritizes an independent seating experience. The four-seat version features a theater-style rear seating layout, with a seating position 7 cm higher than the front row. The most impressive detail is that the seat adjustment buttons are hidden within the wooden trim on the door panels, preserving the aesthetic appeal of the leather. The five-seat version removes the wireless charging and heated/cooled cup holders from the center console, and simplifies the rear climate control zones. The consultant mentioned that most four-seat buyers hire professional drivers, while five-seat owners occasionally drive themselves, so the front seats in the five-seat version actually offer better bolstering.


