Following months of teasing and web leaks, Aston Martin has finally released the full details surrounding its latest model – the Rapide.
Representing Aston Martin’s addition to the fledgling luxury four-door coupe market, the Rapide can accommodate up to four adults while offering an engaging driving experience synonymous with all Aston Martins.
As the brand’s first four-door sports car, the Rapide manages to succeed where – arguably – the Porsche Panamera has failed by offering a truly stunning package encapsulating the core values of Power, Beauty and Soul.
Four ‘swan wing’ doors provide access to each hand trimmed individual sports seat with a personal heating and air conditioning system.
The luggage compartment features a movable bulkhead allowing access from the rear cabin while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button to create a flat loading space increasing the luggage compartment from 301 litres to 750 litres.
Chief Executive, Dr. Ulrich Bez said: “Rapide is the culmination of the Aston Martin range of sports cars, a car that seals the revival of a truly admired marque. There is now an Aston Martin for every taste and for every use.”
Under the bonnet is Aston Martin’s hand-built 6.0-litre V12 engine producing peak power of 350kW at 6000rpm and 600Nm mated to a specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission as standard, boasting a zero to 100km/h time of just 5.3 seconds.
The Rapide’s weight balance is near perfect with a 51:49 split, with the use of lightweight materials contributing to the projected weight gain of only 190kg over its DB9 stablemate for a kerb weight of 1950kg.
The dynamics have certainly not been compromised with Aston Martin’s bonded aluminium chassis able to withstand 28,000Nm of force twisted through 1 degree – a key element in delivering exceptional dynamic feel despite being 290mm longer than the DB9.
To take full advantage of its extremely rigid platform, the Rapide features Adaptive Damping System (ADS) first seen on the DBS which uses two separate valves to set the dampers to five different positions, allowing instant adjustment of the car’s ride and handling characteristics.
“There is a real sense of proportion with this car, akin to a tailored suit; the new double grill gives more presence on the road while the iconic signature side strake has been lengthened through to the rear doors to enhance its lateral proportions in a subtle, yet elegant way. The car’s purity makes it look right from every angle.”
First deliveries of the Rapide will commence early in 2010 and will be available globally through Aston Martin’s 125 strong dealership network with pricing to be confirmed at the Frankfurt Show.
