Aston Martin Unveils the Rapide S, Price and Launch Date Unknown

Aston Martin’s Rapide just received a makeover, in and out.  It’s called the Rapide S, the company’s newest 4-door sport saloon, and is set to replace the outgoing model, the Rapide, in 2014.

In addition to new design language, the Rapide S has received a power train bump, pushing the horsepower to 550, 80 more than the car’s previous iteration.  Aston has also improved torque to 450 lb-ft.  The result is a 0-60 run time of just 4.9 seconds, .3 seconds faster than the original.  Top speed remains a cool 190mph, which doesn’t appear to be electronically limited regardless of what package you select.

Housing the massive 6.0 liter V12 engine is an updated chassis that offers not only a user-selectable electronic suspension system (normal, sport, and track modes), but a new larger grill opening that not only reduces pedestrian damage (in the event of an accident), but does away with the dividing line, making the grill analogous to a wide mouth – one Steven Tyler would be proud of.

The Aston Martin Rapide will come stock with 20-inch wheels, which is further complemented by a new engine that sits 19mm lower.  The result, when combined with the new, tighter suspension system, is a more reactive and nimble 4-door sedan that should qualify it as one of the better GT cars in its class.

An optional Carbon Exterior Pack adds the lightweight material to the car’s front splitter, rear diffuser, mirror caps and rear lamp infills.  And speaking of which, the exterior of the Rapide S has been updated with a new rear end and a more pronounced boot lid ‘flip’ that is said to help reduce lift of the vehicle when at high speeds.

A sumptuous interior, as one would suspect, welcomes the driver.  A piano black option adds a black reflective quality throughout the cabin, which is mixed with red stitching highlights, though a tan or gray option seems to be available.  Remaining from the previous model is the standard-fit pure glass transmission selector switches in the centre console.  Lastly, the rear seats, which are best suited for small people, fold down at the push of a button, increasing interior space three-fold.

Surprisingly, you’ll have to drop some extra scratch if you want a reverse camera and a twin screen rear seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, remote control, and six-disc DVD changer.  And for those with more money than they know what to do with, Aston offers a “Q Service”, which provides unique tailoring options, focusing on custom colors presumably on the interior and exterior of the vehicle.

No word on a launch date.  You can however order the Aston Martin Rapide S starting next month for a yet to be disclosed price.