FRANKFURT, Germany — More than three and a half years after its debut as a snazzy concept at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show, the final production-ready Aston Martin Rapide has been formally unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show.
The company's first production four-door sports car features what Aston refers to as "swan doors" that provide easy access to the rear compartment. The Rapide accommodates four adults, and the rear seats fold flat to provide more cargo space.
The Rapide is powered by a 6.0-liter V12, rated at 470 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Acceleration from zero to 60 mph is accomplished in just over five seconds, and top speed is 188 mph.
The car is built on the same VH architecture that underpins the Aston DBS, DB9 and Vantage.
Aston expects to begin deliveries in early 2010, with prices expected to start at more than $200,000.
Inside Line says: It's a damn sight more handsome than a Panamera. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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