Skip advert
Advertisement

Aston Martin Rapide

2010 to date: Four-door brings Aston class to luxury sector

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.

Advertisement - Article continues below

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.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £3,214 off RRP*Used from £10,195
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,050 off RRP*Used from £13,168
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £11,995
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £3,710 off RRP*Used from £15,440
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG Cyberster Black is a dark sign of things to come for the brand
Cyberster Black - front 3/4

New MG Cyberster Black is a dark sign of things to come for the brand

MG boss thinks special editions like this might be the ticket to keeping up demand for the electric sports car
News
10 Jul 2025