Aston Martin Rapide S officially revealed!

It has been only 2 years since Aston Martin revealed their very first four-door performance limo the Rapide, and despite its larger dimension and extra two doors, the rear seats are still too cramped to be a proper limo when compared to its key rivals. Worse still, Rapide’s key rival also offers significantly more power for similar or less money. Clearly, something has to be done and Aston Martin believe their new Rapide S will seal the deal.

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Despite the addition of the ‘S’ nomenclature, the Rapide S will not be an extension to the Rapide model lineup. Instead, the Rapide S will be replacing the current Rapide altogether. Meaning the Rapide S will be a revised Rapide but with a tweaked name. Just like how the revised Mercedes SLS AMG is now called the SLS AMG GT.

The highlight of the Rapide S is its significant increase in horsepower. Powered by the same 6.0 liter V12 (5,935cc to be exact) engine but mounted 19mm lower than before for increased center of gravity, power is now up from 470hp to a more competitive 550hp. This 80hp increase means it is now more powerful than many of its rivals and on par with the flagship Porsche Panamera Turbo S and also the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG.

Clearly Aston Martin is trying to pitch their Rapide S as more of a performance Grand Tourer (GT) rather than a fully-fledged limousine. Providing an answer to those who wants stylish performance and the added practicality of the extra two doors only when needed.

Naturally, torque is also increased and 0-60 mph takes only 4.7 seconds and can now reach a higher top speed of 190 mph/305 kph. Despite the added performance, CO² emission have been reduced from 355 g/km to 332 g/km, and fuel efficiency have been increased from 18 mpg to 19.9 mpg.

Exterior wise, all of us will notice that new large, single frame front grille but there is also a more pronounced lower bumper, new rims, and rear boot lid spoiler. Specify the Carbon Exterior Pack and you will have the front splitter, rear diffuser, wing mirror covers and rear lamp infills all in genuine carbon fiber. The Carbon Exterior Pack you see here in these photos are just one of the 20+ optional equipment you can order for you Rapide S.

The new Rapide S will go on sale next month and prices are expected to be similar to the current Rapide. So the Rapide S is more powerful, more attractive, more environmentally friendly, and priced similarly to the now-defunct Rapide? Now that’s a win-win situation.

Aston Martin have not only made the Rapide S a more stylish alternative to limousines but also now with the power to match. I’m sure when Mr. Bond finally decides to start a family, the Rapide S will be his driving weapon of choice.