First Official 2010 Aston Martin Rapide Images Released

Despite being months away from its official release, Aston Martin has revealed the first official images and details on the family-friendly Aston Martin Rapide four-door.

The production model remains true to the concept, with little having been changed. The concept was first seen back in 2006 and a steady stream of spy shots have kept us all drooling since.

The Rapide's smooth flowing exterior is accentuated by the strong character line running to the rear haunches and picked up in the line of the duck-tail spoiler.

Part of the character line is formed by a stylish elongated indicator mount that runs through the side vents.

Out back there are LED taillights and dual exhaust tips, but otherwise it's almost identical to the concept vehicle and the many spy images snapped to date.

The 'swan-wing' doors remain, but the small side intakes from the front bumper have been ditched.

Clever design means the Rapide is only 63.5mm (2.5inch) taller and 254mm (10inch) longer than the DB9 on which it is based. Necessary when fitting two extra seats.

Also borrowed from the DB9 is Aston Martin's 6.0 litre V12 engine, which bestows the Rapide with a healthy 350kW (470hp) and 600Nm (442lb-ft) of torque.

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a ZF six-speed automatic transmission, with the Aston capable of some solid performance figures for its weight.

Tipping the scales at close to 2000kg (4300lbs) the Rapide is no lightweight, but still manages the 0-100km/h sprint in under 5.0 seconds and a top speed of around 288km/h (180mph).

The cabin will be very familiar to DB9 owners and will receive headrest-mounted LCD screens for rear occupants and a panoramic glass roof.

Magna Steyr will handle the construction of the Rapide with the official debut scheduled for September.

Expect a price over AUD $270,000 (USD $195,000) but we'll confirm this closer to the Frankfurt Motor Show. For now, take a look at the official images in the gallery below.