2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom Spied Testing

It might look like just another black Rolls-Royce Phantom, but underneath the unassuming (well, unassuming if you're a Russian oil baron) exterior lies the bones of Rolls-Royce's next-generation super-limo.

Seen outside one of BMW's technical centres in Germany (BMW owns Rolls-Royce, remember), this test mule sports more air intakes in the front bumper, a longer exhaust system and new interior elements.

What we don't see, is the all-new platform that will be the new Phantom's foundations.

With the new generation, the Phantom is expected to ditch its bespoke aluminium chassis for one based on the upcoming next-gen BMW 7 Series - bringing with it the ability to share more of its powertrains with its BMW cousin.