Rolls-Royce Dawn Buyers Guide

With the new Rolls-Royce Dawn being introduced in 2015, it was a successor to the Phantom Drophead Coupe, the Dawn was not merely a continuation but a reinvention of the Rolls-Royce convertible experience.

With its elegant design, meticulous craftsmanship, and powerful performance, the Dawn set a new standard for luxury convertibles, blending modern technology with the timeless appeal that Rolls-Royce is known for.

At the heart of the Rolls-Royce Dawn lies a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, capable of delivering 563 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain allows the Dawn to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, providing an exhilarating driving experience despite its significant size and weight.

The exterior of the Dawn features a sleek, flowing silhouette that is both imposing and graceful. One of the most striking features is the fabric roof, which operates almost silently and can be raised or lowered in just 22 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 31 mph. The Dawn’s rear-hinged doors, a signature Rolls-Royce feature, add to the car’s elegance and provide easy access to the opulent interior.

Inside, the Dawn is crafted with the finest materials, including hand-stitched leather, real wood veneers, and metal accents. The seating configuration is designed to comfortably accommodate four adults, making it a true four-seater convertible.

The Dawn is equipped with the latest in automotive technology, including an infotainment system, a bespoke audio system, and a suite of driver assistance features, all designed to enhance the driving experience while maintaining the brand’s focus on comfort and refinement.

Throughout its production, the Rolls-Royce Dawn faced competition from other high-end convertibles in the luxury segment. Notable competitors included the Bentley Continental GT Convertible, Aston Martin DB11 Volante, and the Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet. Despite the presence of these rivals, the Dawn caters to those who seek the ultimate in open-top motoring without compromise.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2015 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2015, Rolls-Royce unveiled the Dawn at the Frankfurt Motor Show, positioning it as a more youthful and contemporary convertible option compared to the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe. 

The Dawn was powered by a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering 563 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. The design featured a four-seat configuration, a fabric roof, and a rear-hinged door layout, with the roof noted for its near-silent operation, taking around 22 seconds to open or close. 

Technologically, the Dawn was equipped with advanced navigation, a high-resolution infotainment system, night vision, adaptive cruise control, and a bespoke audio system, ensuring a blend of luxury and cutting-edge innovation.

When the Rolls-Royce Dawn was first introduced in 2015, the starting price was approximately $335,000.

2016 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2016, the first year of full production for the Rolls-Royce Dawn, there were no major changes introduced. 

The starting price for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Dawn remained around $335,000. 

2017 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2017, Rolls-Royce introduced the Dawn Black Badge edition, aimed at a younger demographic. This variant featured a more powerful version of the 6.6-liter V12 engine, boosting its output to 593 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque.

The Dawn Black Badge also had a revised suspension setup and tweaked chassis dynamics, providing sportier and more responsive handling while still delivering the comfort expected of a Rolls-Royce. The exhaust system was re-engineered to produce a deeper, more resonant sound.

The design of the Dawn Black Badge came with darker exterior accents, including black chrome details that gave the car a more aggressive look. The iconic "Spirit of Ecstasy" hood ornament was finished in high-gloss black, and the “Double R” badges were inverted to black with silver outlines, further distinguishing this edition from the standard Dawn. 

Inside, the cabin featured carbon fiber elements and a distinctive, darker-themed interior trim, setting it apart from the traditional elegance of the standard Dawn. The car was also equipped with unique 21-inch carbon alloy composite wheels, designed to complement its darker aesthetic and provide a blend of strength and lightness.

The starting price for the regular Rolls-Royce Dawn was approximately $335,000 when it was introduced. For the Dawn Black Badge edition, it was around $400,000.

2018 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2018, the updates to the Rolls-Royce Dawn were primarily focused on enhancing the vehicle's technology and expanding its already extensive options. The infotainment system received a series of software updates.

These updates included a more intuitive interface, faster response times, and improved navigation features, making it easier for drivers to interact with the car’s technology. The system also became more compatible with smartphones, integrating better with both Apple and Android devices to offer better connectivity for calls, music, and other media.

Rolls-Royce placed a significant emphasis on expanding the bespoke options available for the Dawn. Such as expanded bespoke program introduced new exterior paint options, including a range of unique and vibrant colors that allowed owners to create a special vehicle. 

The interior materials selection was also broadened, with new leather and wood veneer choices that could be tailored to match an owner's specific tastes. The introduction of new trim options allowed for even more personalization for each Dawn.

The starting price for the regular Dawn and Dawn Black Badge in 2018 remained unchanged and was the same as the previous year.

2019 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2019, Rolls-Royce continued the production of both the standard Dawn and the Black Badge variant.

The year also saw several tech and safety updates, with the introduction of enhanced driver-assistance features. These updates included lane departure warning, collision warning, and a more refined adaptive cruise control system.

The "Aero Cowling" variant introduced in 2019 was a special edition of the Rolls-Royce Dawn that brought a unique twist to the convertible. This variant featured a bespoke aerodynamic cover that was fitted over the rear seats, turning the Dawn into a sleek two-seater. The Aero Cowling was designed not only to enhance the car's sporty aesthetic but also to improve its aerodynamic performance.

Crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, the Aero Cowling consisted of two beautifully sculpted pods that seamlessly integrated into the Dawn's design. These pods were lined with quilted leather to match the car's interior, ensuring that the luxurious feel extended even to this performance-focused feature.

The cover also included a central storage compartment between the two pods, adding a practical element to the design without compromising on elegance.

The starting price for the standard Rolls-Royce Dawn in 2019 was approximately $335,000. The Dawn Black Badge variant, with its enhanced performance and distinctive design features, had a higher starting price of around $400,000. For the limited edition Aero Cowling variant, the starting price begins at around $450,000.

2020 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2020, the Rolls-Royce Dawn lineup remained largely unchanged, with no major updates introduced.

The starting price for the regular Dawn, Dawn Black Badge, and Dawn Aero Cowling in 2020 remained unchanged and was the same as the previous year.

2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2021, Rolls-Royce continued to celebrate the exclusivity of the Dawn by introducing more limited-edition models. Among these was the “Silver Bullet” collection, a special edition inspired by the sleek and stylish roadsters of the 1920s. This collection was particularly exclusive, with only 50 cars produced worldwide, making it a highly sought-after model for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The “Silver Bullet” featured unique design elements that set it apart from the standard Dawn. It exclusive silver paint finish and the Aero Cowling, special 21-inch wheels, and darkened chrome accents on the grille and exhaust pipes.

The starting prices for the Rolls-Royce Dawn models were approximately $335,000 for the standard version, $400,000 for the Black Badge edition, and around $450,000 for the limited edition "Silver Bullet," with prices varying based on options.

2022 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2022, Rolls-Royce announced that the production of the Dawn, along with the Wraith, would come to an end by 2023.

The starting prices for the Rolls-Royce Dawn were approximately $355,000 for the standard model, $420,000 for the Black Badge edition, and around $450,000 for the bespoke final edition models.

2023 Rolls-Royce Dawn

In 2023, Rolls-Royce marked the final production year of the Dawn with the exclusive "Final Collection" models. These special editions featured bespoke exterior paint colors unique to the collection, such as deep metallic shades and custom hues that were not available on any other Rolls-Royce models.

The custom interior trims included luxurious materials like rare leather patterns and exquisite wood veneers, specifically chosen to reflect Dawn’s elegance. 

The "Final Collection" also boasted bespoke wheels, designed with intricate detailing and unique finishes that complemented the exclusive paint options. Special badging was discreetly placed throughout the car, subtly indicating their status as the last of the Dawn line. 

In 2023, the starting prices for the Rolls-Royce Dawn models were approximately $355,000 for the standard version, $420,000 for the Black Badge edition, and around $450,000 or more for the "Final Collection" models, depending on the level of options.

Rolls-Royce Dawn Common Problems

The Rolls-Royce Dawn, which is based on the first-generation Ghost, also shares this BMW L6 platform with the BMW 7 Series. This connection provides the Dawn with a solid foundation. However, it is essential to keep in mind that all cars, even supercars, can have issues and it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Battery Issues: The Rolls-Royce Dawn is known to experience problems with battery drainage, especially if the car is not driven regularly. Corrosion on battery terminals is also a frequent issue, which can lead to poor electrical connections and starting problems.

Throttle Body Problems: A dirty or malfunctioning throttle body can cause poor engine performance, including slow acceleration and rough idling. This is often due to the accumulation of dirt and grime over time, particularly in vehicles driven frequently in stop-and-go traffic.

Oxygen Sensor Failures: Faulty oxygen sensors can lead to incorrect air-fuel mixture readings, causing issues like slow acceleration, engine hesitation, and even catalytic converter failure if not addressed promptly.

Fuel Pump Malfunctions: Problems with the fuel pump can cause irregular acceleration, poor starting behavior, and reduced fuel efficiency. This can be due to leaks or contamination within the pump itself.

Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported transmission problems, which can manifest as slow acceleration or difficulty shifting gears. These issues are often related to wear and tear on the transmission components over time.

Recalls

2017 Rolls-Royce Dawn vehicles

Air bags (Recall no. 17V115000 and 16V914000)

The affected vehicles have seat-mounted side air bag inflator initiators that may fail to ignite during a crash. If the air bag inflator initiator fails to ignite, the seat-mounted air bag will not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Compared to other ultra-luxury sedans, owning a Rolls-Royce Dawn is considered to have relatively lower maintenance requirements and ownership costs. This is partly due to its shared engineering with BMW, which brings a level of reliability and familiarity to some of the Dawn's components, easing the overall ownership experience. But keep in mind that Rolls-Royce parts and service will be more than BMW generally.

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here is the suggested service schedule and intervals per Rolls Royce:

1 YEAR OR 7,000 - 10,000 MILES

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Comprehensive inspection to factory specifications.
• Complete factory diagnostics.

2 YEARS OR 18,000 MILES

• Replace engine coolant.
• Replace spark plugs.
• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Inspect and replace V-belt and tensioner.
• Replace pollen filters.
• Replace brake fluid.

3 YEARS OR 27,000 MILES

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Replace gearbox oil.

4 YEARS OR 36,000 MILES

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Comprehensive inspection to factory specifications.
• Replace brake pads and discs as necessary.
• Check and replace cabin air filters.

5 YEARS OR 45,000 MILES

• Replace engine oil and filter.
• Replace spark plugs.
• Inspect and replace V-belt and tensioner.
• Replace pollen filters.
• Replace brake fluid.
• Replace engine coolant.

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Rolls-Royce Dawn:

Oil Change - As low as $650 with independent mechanics and up to $1,000 at Rolls-Royce dealerships, due to the use of high-quality synthetic oil and premium filters.

Minor Service - Typically includes an oil change, air filter, and cabin filter replacement, along with general vehicle inspections. Expect to pay around $1,500 to $3,000 at a dealership.

Major Service - Involves everything from a minor service plus spark plug replacement, brake fluid change, and more extensive system diagnostics. Costs at a dealership typically range from $4,000 to $8,000.

Tires - A set of high-performance tires such as Michelin Pilot Sport All Season can cost between $2,000 and $4,000, depending on the brand and specification.

Brakes - Premium brake pads and rotors for the Dawn are priced around $2,500 to $4,500 for a full set, including labor at a dealership.

Clutch - Although the Dawn generally uses an automatic transmission, related clutch or transmission component replacements can cost between $5,000 and $10,000.

Options List

The Rolls-Royce Dawn offers an impressive list of options to choose from. One of the most striking options is the bespoke paint and finishes, where buyers can choose from a nearly limitless selection of exterior colors, including exclusive hues designed specifically for the Dawn. The paint process is carefully executed with multiple layers, resulting in a deep and lustrous finish. 

Additionally, buyers can opt for different finishes, such as gloss, matte, or satin, to enhance the car’s appearance further. For those looking to add a personal touch, Rolls-Royce offers hand-painted coachlines applied by a skilled craftsman, as well as custom monograms or logos that can be added to the exterior.

The Dawn’s convertible roof is another customizable feature, available in various colors like black, blue, red, and silver. The roof is engineered for quiet operation and can be opened or closed in just 22 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 31 mph.

Wheel options include 20-inch and 21-inch alloy designs, which can be finished in different styles, such as part-polished or fully polished, allowing owners to select the perfect wheels to complement their vehicle’s overall aesthetic.

Inside the Dawn, the customization possibilities continue with a wide range of high-quality materials for the interior. Options include luxurious leather, exotic wood veneers, carbon fiber finishes, and unique materials like piano black lacquer or open-pore wood.

For audiophiles, the bespoke audio system in the Dawn delivers concert-hall quality sound, custom-tuned to the vehicle’s acoustics for an immersive experience. The Dawn also offers advanced driver assistance and safety features, including Night Vision, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and a Head-Up Display, enhancing both convenience and safety.

Rear seat passengers are not overlooked, with options for heated and ventilated seats, as well as massage functions, ensuring a luxurious experience for all occupants. Finally, the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament can be optioned with different finishes, including illuminated, gold-plated, or frosted crystal, adding a final, personalized touch to the vehicle.

2016 Rolls-Royce Dawn Brochure

2018 Rolls-Royce Dawn Brochure

Key Options

• Bespoke Paint and Finishes
• Starlight Headliner
• Night Vision System
• Spirit of Ecstasy Customization
• Bespoke Audio System by Bespoke Audio

Rolls-Royce Dawn Price and Values

The Best Rolls-Royce Dawn to Buy

When it comes to buying a Rolls-Royce Dawn, there are several key factors to consider.

The criteria are divided into a few categories.

For the Rolls-Royce Dawn which holds the best value and delivers the most luxurious experience, the Dawn Black Badge edition is the top choice. It offers enhanced performance features, exclusive styling elements, and advanced technology that set it apart from other models in the lineup.

The Black Badge’s unique design includes darker exterior accents, a more powerful V12 engine producing 593 hp, and bespoke interior options that emphasize a more dynamic and youthful aesthetic. These features, combined with its limited availability, make the Black Badge a standout in the Dawn lineup.

While the standard Dawn models offer exceptional luxury and comfort, the Black Badge’s exclusive features and increased performance capabilities make it an exceptional option for those seeking both luxury and a more spirited driving experience. Additionally, the Black Badge includes various customization options, allowing for personalized touches that enhance the vehicle's appeal and exclusivity.

When considering market stability for a Dawn, go for model years 2016 to 2017. Targeting models with bespoke features and limited production runs is a wise choice. The Black Badge's upgrades and exclusivity make it a desirable option, offering not only superior luxury but also the potential for higher resale value due to its unique position in the Dawn lineup. 

However, all Rolls-Royce Dawn models remain strong purchases because they embody the brand’s commitment to unparalleled luxury, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. The Dawn’s combination of a powerful V12 engine, high-quality interior materials, and cutting-edge technology makes it a compelling choice for any luxury car buyer.

In addition to model selection, the condition and mileage of the vehicle are crucial factors to consider when buying a Dawn. Vehicles that have been well-maintained and have low mileage are more likely to retain their value over time. It is important to conduct thorough research, compare prices, and look for well-maintained cars if you are considering purchasing a Dawn to maintain or increase its value.

Conclusion

In summary, with a starting price of around $100,000 to $150,000+, the Rolls-Royce Dawn represents the pinnacle of luxury convertibles. It offers an unparalleled blend of bespoke craftsmanship, advanced technology, and a powerful V12 engine, making it a great choice for those seeking the ultimate in open-top motoring.

While alternatives like the Bentley Continental GT Convertible, Aston Martin DB11 Volante, and Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet exist, the Dawn distinguishes itself with its timeless design, near-silent operation, and the sheer exclusivity that comes with owning a Rolls-Royce.

For those who desire a combination of unmatched luxury and class, the Rolls-Royce Dawn is an exceptional choice.