2016 Aston Martin Rapide S REVIEW | Restrained Supercar Looks, 12 Cylinders And Seating For Four – A Win-Win
IT’S AN EACH-WAY BET, THE 2016 ASTON MARTIN RAPIDE S, IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE.
Firstly, it’s got restrained supercar looks, a 12-cylinder engine, a five-door body and adequate seating and luggage space (just) for four adults; a win-win in plenty of respects.
But secondly, its days on 'Planet Earth' may be numbered.
There is a replacement in the wings, or so we believe, but will it be as gorgeous as this, and manage to hide so deftly the 'four-door' practicality under such rakish lines? It can go wrong; make Exhibit A here the first Porsche Panamera (thankfully now being replaced).
Or maybe the replacement just won't do it for you, or isn’t suitable (or is just too expensive).
Decisions, decisions… buy now, or wait?
Vehicle Style: Premium Five-Door Sports Coupe
Price: $382,500 (plus on-roads) As Tested: $425,000 plus on-roads
Engine/trans: 411kW/630Nm 5.9 litre 12cyl petrol | 8sp automatic
Fuel Economy claimed: 12.9 l/100km | Tested: 16.0 l/100km
OVERVIEW
Put simply, the 2016 Aston Martin Rapide S is Aston’s acknowledgement that not all of its owners are happy to sacrifice the convenience of back doors and seats.
You won't see a wagon anytime soon, this is about as practical as an AM gets. And this particular five-door model mixes crushing supercar performance with that practicality to arrive at something the carmaker can sell without upsetting any of its well-heeled devotees.
The Rapide is having your cake and eating it too; Aston’s beautiful lines are not entirely abandoned to accommodate the extra doors.