Photo: Aston Martin
After multiple rumors and spyshot sessions, Aston Martin now introduces a leaner version of its four-door coupe, the Rapide S. This replaces the Rapide and receives updates in all major areas.
The naturally aspirated AM11 6.0-liter V12 engine now delivers 550 hp instead of 470 hp, while the torque has grown from Nm 600 (443 lb-ft) to 620 Nm (457 lb-ft). The aforementioned peak torque comes at the same 5,000 rpm, but the torque curve has been improved below 4,000 rpm, an area where you often find yourself during everyday driving.
The output increase for the 5,935 cc V12 was achieved using racing-borrowed technology. The powerplant features fully CNC machined combustion chambers, as well as lighter, hollow, cam shafts.
The Rapide S is 0.3s quicker to 62 mph, needing 4.9 seconds for the job, while the top speed was increased to 306 km/h (190 mph). Aston tells us that the car is also more efficient now. CO2 emissions have dropped from 355 to 332 g/km, while the EU combined cycle efficiency sits at 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg or 19.9 UK mpg).
In addition to that, the engine sits 19 mm lower in the car, bringing the center of gravity lower and also improving the steering turn-in response. The dynamic stability control (DSC) has been tweaked to cope with the extra muscle, while the Adaptive Damping System (ADS) has also been upgraded. The later now offers three settings: ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’.
“Growing the power in a luxury sports car is all very well, but maximising control and ‘usability’ of that increased power is, just as much, the engineers’ challenge,” said Head of Product Development at Aston Martin, Ian Minards.
“Transmission calibration, ADS refinement, braking capability and engine output optimisation are among the many ‘ingredients’ which the team here at Gaydon have used to create a sports car of unerring quality and excitement,” the executive added.
The Rapide S receives moderate exterior changes, with these being led by the new front grille. The list goes on with a new boot lid that integrates a spoiler, as well as a redesigned rear deck. Those who want more visual drama, can opt for the Carbon Exterior package.
As for the cabin, this receives new black piano trimming, a darker surround for the instruments and steering wheel elements, as well as blend headlinings in tan or grey. The Rapide S also marks the introduction of two-tone perforated red and black leather for the brand.
The Aston Martin Rapide S will be availble for order on international markets starting from next month.
The output increase for the 5,935 cc V12 was achieved using racing-borrowed technology. The powerplant features fully CNC machined combustion chambers, as well as lighter, hollow, cam shafts.
The Rapide S is 0.3s quicker to 62 mph, needing 4.9 seconds for the job, while the top speed was increased to 306 km/h (190 mph). Aston tells us that the car is also more efficient now. CO2 emissions have dropped from 355 to 332 g/km, while the EU combined cycle efficiency sits at 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg or 19.9 UK mpg).
In addition to that, the engine sits 19 mm lower in the car, bringing the center of gravity lower and also improving the steering turn-in response. The dynamic stability control (DSC) has been tweaked to cope with the extra muscle, while the Adaptive Damping System (ADS) has also been upgraded. The later now offers three settings: ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’.
“Growing the power in a luxury sports car is all very well, but maximising control and ‘usability’ of that increased power is, just as much, the engineers’ challenge,” said Head of Product Development at Aston Martin, Ian Minards.
“Transmission calibration, ADS refinement, braking capability and engine output optimisation are among the many ‘ingredients’ which the team here at Gaydon have used to create a sports car of unerring quality and excitement,” the executive added.
The Rapide S receives moderate exterior changes, with these being led by the new front grille. The list goes on with a new boot lid that integrates a spoiler, as well as a redesigned rear deck. Those who want more visual drama, can opt for the Carbon Exterior package.
As for the cabin, this receives new black piano trimming, a darker surround for the instruments and steering wheel elements, as well as blend headlinings in tan or grey. The Rapide S also marks the introduction of two-tone perforated red and black leather for the brand.
The Aston Martin Rapide S will be availble for order on international markets starting from next month.
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