Aston Martin has given its four-door Rapide a thorough mid-life facelift with a range of styling tweaks, an extra 80bhp and a new name.
The new Rapide S is designed to be a more focussed sports car than the old Rapide, and although it's fitted with the same 6.0-litre V12 as its predecessor, the power output has been increased to 550bhp. 0-62mph now takes 4.9 seconds -- three-tenths quicker than the old model -- and the top speed has risen by 2mph to 190mph.
Despite the improved performance, Aston claims fuel economy has improved by 0.9mpg up to 19.9mpg, while CO2 emissions have fallen by 23g/km to 332g/km.
On the outside, the styling changes are few and far between. The most obvious difference is the huge new front grille which features Aston's 'keystone' pedestrian protection system, enabling it to move backwards on impact with an obstacle. The Rapide S also gets a bigger rear spoiler, a range of new body colours and 20-inch wheels.
Interior styling changes include new piano black trim and optional 'Duotone' red and black upholstery.
Aston Martin has yet to reveal the prices for the new Rapide S, but the new car is expected to cost around the same as its £149,995 predecessor when it goes on sale next month.
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