After a three-year wait and much enthusiasm from the automotive community, Aston Martin finally decided to lift the veil over its luxury sedan, the Rapide. As we're between shows, it will probably be officially unveiled before the press at the Geneva Auto Show in a few weeks.
The car's similarities with the concept vehicle are obvious. In fact, the original line received such acclaim that very few changes were made. What stands out on first inspection is the more pronounced side scoop that now extends to the rear door.
Its affiliation with the DB9 coupe is apparent, and even if the Rapide is more slender, the balance of its lines verges on perfection. The round exhaust tips are built into the bumper and, as is now Aston Martin's wont, the tail lights are covered by clear lenses.
As a four-door sedan, the Rapide maintains the interior configuration of the concept, and though the materials aren't exaggeratedly exotic, their quality is among the best in the industry.
For the moment, Aston Martin hasn't released any details on the engine, but considering its mechanical similarity to the DB9, chances are very good that it will be powered by the house V12, which can produce between 475 and 510 hp depending on the version.
The Aston Martin Rapide will be the first sedan to take the form of a luxury four-door coupe. It will likely rub shoulders with the Lamborghini Estoque within a few years, but for the time being, its true rivals remain the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG, the Maserati Quattroporte GT S and the new Porsche Panamera.
photo:Aston Martin
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The car's similarities with the concept vehicle are obvious. In fact, the original line received such acclaim that very few changes were made. What stands out on first inspection is the more pronounced side scoop that now extends to the rear door.
Its affiliation with the DB9 coupe is apparent, and even if the Rapide is more slender, the balance of its lines verges on perfection. The round exhaust tips are built into the bumper and, as is now Aston Martin's wont, the tail lights are covered by clear lenses.
As a four-door sedan, the Rapide maintains the interior configuration of the concept, and though the materials aren't exaggeratedly exotic, their quality is among the best in the industry.
For the moment, Aston Martin hasn't released any details on the engine, but considering its mechanical similarity to the DB9, chances are very good that it will be powered by the house V12, which can produce between 475 and 510 hp depending on the version.
The Aston Martin Rapide will be the first sedan to take the form of a luxury four-door coupe. It will likely rub shoulders with the Lamborghini Estoque within a few years, but for the time being, its true rivals remain the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG, the Maserati Quattroporte GT S and the new Porsche Panamera.
photo:Aston Martin
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