Rolls-Royce 4×4 in the works, possible debut by 2018

Rolls-Royce is going to build a 4×4. In a joint statement by chairman Peter Schwarzenbauer and chief executive Torsten Müller-Ötvös, the new car is not unprecedented for the brand and reflected Rolls-Royce’s rugged roots.

The BMW-owned British carmaker says that “Rolls-Royces conveyed pioneers and adventurers like Lawrence of Arabia across the vastness of unexplored deserts and over mountain ranges. In other parts of the world including Australia, India and the Americas, Rolls-Royces carried their owners over challenging terrain with absolute reliability and comfort.”

Rolls-Royce hasn’t specifically mentioned that their new all-aluminium model will be an SUV, but rather a “high-bodied car” that can “cross any terrain.” It is expected to debut by 2018, and is likely an attempt to gain a foothold in the competitive U.S. and Middle East markets, and stave off competition from former stablemates Bentley, whose own SUV — the Bentley Bentayga — was recently announced.

Keep track of updates in the Rolls-Royce buyer guide.