Aston Martin Rapide

Think of a four-door, and a sensible saloon springs to mind. But take one look at the Aston Martin Rapide, and all thoughts of practicality will be shattered instantly.

Even though it has space for four, the firm’s flagship model is every inch an exotic supercar contender. Taking cues from sleek Aston coupés and convertibles, the rakish Rapide has a jaw-dropping look that stops passers-by in their tracks.

Our car was given even greater visual impact by the optional Luxe pack, which adds gorgeous 20-inch polished alloy wheels.

Pull one of the four recessed handles, and the trademark ‘swan door’ swings gracefully out and up. And the Rapide’s cabin is as stunning as its exterior. The dash is carried over more or less unchanged from the DB9, and features the same alloy-trimmed switchgear and distinctive dials. Luxe spec brings a classy-looking glass finish for the buttons that operate the transmission, traction control and adaptive dampers.

In the back are two individual seats, separated by a high transmission tunnel. Despite the Rapide’s low roofline, there’s sufficient space inside, although occupants over six feet tall will find their head brushing the Alcantara-covered ceiling. A decent 317-litre load bay means a weekend away for you and three friends isn’t out of the question.

Yet this dose of practicality doesn’t come at the expense of Aston’s high-performance heritage. Under the long bonnet is the 470bhp 6.0-litre V12, which delivers blistering acceleration, plus a howling soundtrack once the revs rise above 3,000rpm. 

Sharp steering and hi-tech adaptive dampers help deliver impressive agility, while the six-speed semi-auto gearbox serves up smooth shifts. Better still, the controlled ride and well insulated cabin make for relaxing long journeys. After the trials and tribulations the firm has suffered over the years, the Rapide shows the future is extremely bright.