Does the ‘murdered out’ car look still have horsepower? Rolls-Royce thinks so, as their ‘Black Badge’ series continues by applying the package to the Cullinan.

Rolls-Royce’s new Cullinan Black Badge is the latest in their series of more youthful takes on the classically staid and aristocratic British touring car; the Ghost, Wraith and Dawn Black Badge editions (although a blacked-out Dawn, you’ll agree, is a bit of a contradiction in terms) having preceded it. But this Cullinan also features performance updates which augment the thrill of Rolls ownership by putting a little thrill in the act of driving.

The standard Black Badge cosmetic treatment applies, of course, with a hand-polished veneer of matte black paint covering the body (other colors can be optioned). A blacked-out grille, and trim, interiors, and sterling silver Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament among the darkened components contributing to the shadowy execution.

However, present and accounted for in the Cajun-blackened Cullinan is also a new Rolls feature called ‘Intuitive Throttle’, which gives the 8-speed gearbox more snap in action, and the 6.8L V12 has been tweaked to deliver up to 600 horsepower; to accommodate the last enhancement, the suspension has also been adjusted.

The variant’s 22” wheels accented with red calipers, a strikingly dramatic flourish, and the cabin features the Starlight Headliner and a unique auditory touch: a pushbutton alteration of the exhaust sound that modifies it to a low growl.

The Cullinan Black Badge may be ordered now. Expect a sticker north of $400K.