The irony of the well-heeled car buyer in this country is that the more money they spend on a car, the less they will drive it. Because when you’re shelling out the big bucks, it’s all about the power seat, and no, I don’t mean electronically adjustable, either. I’m talking about the one where you can adjust economies, industries and government policies. Which is why I decided to scour the finest dealerships in the city to find the ultimate seat of power, starting from number 3.
Surprised to see a Japanese car on the list? Probably not as surprised as the Brits were when Prince Albert of Monaco chose it as his wedding car. Or as the Scots, when Yamazaki not only started making single malt whiskey, but were selling it for $12,892 a bottle.
Sure the Europeans have the flair, the passion and the history, but nobody does obsession quite like the Japanese. So when they go on a relentless pursuit of perfection, it’s best to step out of the way and just marvel at the craftsmanship that you’ll see in the back seat of the most powerful full hybrid saloon in the world.
Finished in Kobe leather, this finely tailored cabin feels more like a private lear jet than a car. The seats recline up to 45 degrees, feature full shiatsu massage function, and an ottoman for total relaxation. Geishas sold seperately.
Bentley Mulsanne $298,000 (before local taxes)
Brought in and sold through PGA cars, the Mulsanne is one of the most expensive luxury cars in the Philippines. While it may sport a face that only a mother can love, inside it is the polar opposite. And what did your mom always tell you about beauty? Damn straight.
The smell of the leather as you climb in is intoxicating; it is how you would imagine money to smell like if you had never seen it before. The choice of materials are a conversation piece all on its own––like the custom made mini bar in the center console, precision switches and tray tables––and have all been lovingly put together with enough pride and passion to make Louie Vuitton feel cheap.
Rolls Royce Ghost. Starting at Php 27,000,000
When I started out as a motoring journalist over twelve years ago, I had a pretty short bucket list: drive a Ferrari and arrive in a Rolls Royce. So it should come as no surprise that it lands on the top of my list of the best back seats in the Philippines.
This is no longer about the materials (even though Rolls Royce is renowned for their infinite customization program that allow you to not only choose the leather, wood and chrome, but allow you to hand pick the cow or tree it came from. Seriously.) This is about the experience. The statement. The art of arrival. Simply because you could answer almost any question with finality by it.
“Who is that over there?”
“I don’t know. But he arrived in a Rolls Royce.”
I rest my case.
