Although it was only at the Geneva Show in March that Rolls-Royce unveiled the 200EX 'concept' it seems like we've been waiting longer for the arrival of the entry-level Roller and here the showroom-ready car is in all its glory.

Remarkably, the Ghost looks even better than the show car that previewed it, as Rolls-Royce's designers have given more depth and detail to the body panels in the transition to a production car. It's unmistakably a modern Roller though, with much in common with the larger Phantom range. In fact, the Ghost is 400mm shorter than the Phantom saloon, yet interior space is said to be 'comparable'.

And what a cabin it appears to be. While the concept of the switchgear will be familiar to BMW drivers - and in particular the excellent new 7 Series - every button looks bespoke, from the super-shiny engine-start to the chromed air vents, analogue clock and a variation on BMW's iDrive system - of course with customised menus and graphics.

Entry to the cockpit is via four thick doors. The fronts hold Rolls-Royce umbrellas, while the rear-hinged back doors can be closed automatically at the touch of a button. Sumptuous and unique as the interior appears to be, there will be a wealth of options for buyers to choose from too, including deep lambs' wool floor mats, veneered picnic tables and a panoramic glass roof.

Behind the newest interpretation of the upright Rolls-Royce radiator grille is a 6.6-litre, twin-turbocharged V12 engine developed specifically for the Ghost, which is mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. Peak power is a substantial 563bhp, while maximum torque of 575lb.ft is produced at just 1,500rpm. Even though the kerb weight hovers around the 2,500kg mark, the Ghost can knock off the 0-62mph sprint in just 4.9 seconds, while the apparently serene onslaught to the horizon is cut short at 155mph.

Reflecting the Ghost's position as the 'forward-looking Rolls-Royce', it comes loaded with technology, most of it already featured in the BMW 7 Series, including a Head-Up Display, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assistance and Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go.

Rolls-Royce has also confirmed that CO₂ emissions and combined consumption will be 317g/km and 20.8mpg respectively. In fact one of the only details we don't now know is the price. The original aim was to launch a car that sits between €200,000 and €300,000 before tax, which by our estimation could make the Ghost about £250,000 in the UK including VAT. The Ghost makes its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 15th.

Shane O' Donoghue - 6 Sep 2009