Aston Martin Rapide AMR spied

Track-focused variant to send off combustion-power for V12 four-door

James Wong

12:0114 April 2018

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A prototype believed to be the production Aston Martin Rapide AMR has been spied this week around the Nurburgring in Germany.

Based on the 2017 Rapide AMR concept, the production version will feature a power boost and a more performance-focused mechanical setup for a more engaging drive experience – Aston Martin Racing (AMR) products are meant to be the most extreme versions of core models.

Official details of the new model are hard to come by, but the concept featured a 600PS (441kW) version of Aston's 5.9-litre V12 – up from 411kW – and a new quad-tipped exhaust system. The company claimed at the concept's reveal that the Rapide AMR "is the world's fastest and thrilling four-door" with a top speed rated at 210mph (338km/h).

Visual differences include a Stirling Green body with lime green accents – the latter seen on this prototype's rear diffuser – unique 21-inch alloy wheels, a different rear diffuser treatment and a more prominent "aero flip" on the boot lid, also seen on the spied development vehicle.

Expect the production version to make extensive use of carbon-fibre components throughout the body and interior, along with a more refined take on the front bumper seen on this prototype to mirror the look of the concept (below).

Inside, the concept featured Lime Green accents along with a carbon-fibre centre console and door casings, so expect the production car to get a similar treatment.

The Aston Martin Rapide AMR will likely be a last hurrah for the combustion-powered version of the company's four-door coupe, before the all-electric limited-run RapidE launches in 2019.

Final specifications for the electric version are still to be confirmed, but the RapidE concept, co-developed with Williams Engineering, targeting a power output of around 600kW and a driving range of 320 kilometres. It'll also be limited to just 155 units after China's LeEco withdrew its financial contribution to the project.

Once the Rapide and RapidE end their production run, the four-door's position in the company's line-up will likely be filled by the upcoming DBX crossover, or a model from the reborn Lagonda boutique luxury marque.