The most powerful four-door Aston Martin has ever built has been unveiled – the Rapide S which replaces the outgoing model.
The new Aston Martin Rapide S
The firm says the new luxury GT has been re-engineered to claim back its position as the ‘world’s most beautiful, and beautifully balanced, four-seat sports car’.
I’m not entirely it will do that but there is a new 6.0-litre V12 engine which boffins have tweaked to increase output by 17% and they have revamped the car’s style.
Drivers will have a top speed of 190mph but it brings an economy of around 20mpg – though I think you’d be lucky to get anywhere near this whilst driving around town.
Buyers will also notice a difference in handling since the engine has been dropped by 19mm into the nose – lowering the centre of gravity.
There’s a choice of three driving styles of normal, sport and track modes which are helped by the new three-stage dampers which give firmer settings.
It’s certainly holds the corners better and is a tad more aggressive in its ability than the previous model.
The revamp also extends to a whole new front which has a grille with pedestrian protection which effectively will ‘help’ the person up and over onto a softer surface of the bonnet to help reduce injury.
Diehard Aston fans might argue that the new grille makes the Rapide S look more like the DB5 used by James Bond and they would probably be right.
There’s also a bigger rear wing to increase downforce when driving at speed, new body colours and allow wheels.
It will be officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March but is available to order now.
And though prices are still unknown, the Rapide S is expected to start at around the current price of £150,000.