Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Bertone Jet 2+2 is a family-style Aston Martin Rapide]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/bertone-jet-aston-martin-rapide-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/bertone-jet-aston-martin-rapide-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/bertone-jet-aston-martin-rapide-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Bertone Jet 2+2 - front three-quarter view, Geneva Motor Show premiere

Leave it to Bertone to take a stab at improving the look of the Aston Martin Rapide. The coachbuilder may have done just that with its Jet 2+2 shooting brake unveiled here at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Using the sexy Aston four-door as a basis, the coachbuilder worked the Aston's rear quarters and lifted the roof into a proper hatch, resulting in a machine with plenty of cargo space out back (though rear seat room doesn't appear to be much better than the production sedan). An LED span joins the vehicle's two taillights, and the design looks far more cohesive than the original renderings led us to believe.

An unnamed collector commissioned the one-off build, and Bertone is using the longroof to mark the 60th anniversary of the company's first partnership with Aston Martin. We couldn't think of a better way to commemorate the date. The stock 6.0-liter V12 remains unsullied, cranking out 476 horsepower, though Bertone has given the interior a once-over with unique wood, glazed aluminum and two leather colors specified by the individual who commissioned the car. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Bertone Jet 2+2 is a family-style Aston Martin Rapide

Bertone Jet 2+2 is a family-style Aston Martin Rapide originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinbertonebertone jetbertone jet 2+2coachbuiltgenevageneva 2013jet 2+2rapideWed, 06 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20490949/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/bertone-jet-aston-martin-rapide-geneva-2012/20490949/article-detail.xml 20490949 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bertone-jet-2-plus-2-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bertone-jet-2-plus-2-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin enhances Rapide with new S model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/aston-martin-rapide-s-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/aston-martin-rapide-s-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/aston-martin-rapide-s-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

We've never really thought of the Aston Martin Rapide as being an old car in need of an update, but since the gorgeous sedan has, in fact, been around since 2010, we suppose a tidy freshening is in order. Here at the Geneva Motor Show, Aston is showing off the new Rapide S, which adds minor styling tweaks and a bit more oomph to the rakish four-door package. But don't be fooled, the S isn't just a trim-and-tape up-do - it wholly replaces the outgoing Rapide.

That's fine with us, since the new car improves upon an already exceptional package. The big sedan's V12 gets a power injection to the tune of 80 horsepower and 14 pound-feet of torque, bringing the totals up to 550 and 457, respectively. This means the Rapide S can hit 60 miles per hour in 4.7 seconds compared to the outgoing car's 5.1, on its way to a top speed of 190 mph. Woosh.

Visual changes for the new S model include a reworked front fascia with a one-piece grille, new 20-inch wheels, a slightly redesigned rear fascia, and a carbon fiber exterior pack that adds a bit of design differentiation to some of the car's outside details. Pricing hasn't been announced just yet, but expect this Aston to come in around the $200,000 mark. Scroll down for the full details in the press blast.

Continue reading Aston Martin enhances Rapide with new S model

Aston Martin enhances Rapide with new S model originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martingenevageneva 2013geneva motor showrapiderapide sTue, 05 Mar 2013 22:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20489117/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/05/aston-martin-rapide-s-geneva-2013/20489117/article-detail.xml 20489117 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-aston-martin-rapide-s-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-aston-martin-rapide-s-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Bertone bringing one-off Aston Martin Rapide shooting brake to Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/bertone-bringing-one-off-aston-martin-rapide-shooting-brake-to-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/bertone-bringing-one-off-aston-martin-rapide-shooting-brake-to-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/bertone-bringing-one-off-aston-martin-rapide-shooting-brake-to-g/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Way back in 2004 Bertone created a one-off concept called the Bertone Jet 2, a shooting brake based on the Aston Martin Vanquish. For this year's Geneva Motor Show the Italian styling house is doing it again, but this time it has used the Rapide to create the Jet 2+2. Employing a model whose lines were more readily made for shooting brake adaptation has resulted in a vehicle that we find far better looking than its predecessor.

There's a 470-horsepower V12 under the hood, a bespoke interior with two-tone leather, a stretched and heightened rear quarter for more headroom and luggage room, and fold-flat rear seats. An LED strip connects the taillights across the wide tailgate.

An unnamed client commissioned the build, and it also happens to be another candle on Aston Martin's centenary birthday cake as well as commemoration of the sixty years since Bertone and Aston Martin first worked together. It will take the floor in Geneva along with the Rapide S.

Bertone bringing one-off Aston Martin Rapide shooting brake to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinbertonebertone jet 2+2genevageneva 2013geneva motor showrapideshooting brakeMon, 25 Feb 2013 09:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20475584/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/25/bertone-bringing-one-off-aston-martin-rapide-shooting-brake-to-g/20475584/article-detail.xml 20475584 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/bertonejet22_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/bertonejet22.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin Rapide S adds an extra consonant worth 550 hp [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/aston-martin-rapide-s-adds-an-extra-consonant-worth-550-hp-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/aston-martin-rapide-s-adds-an-extra-consonant-worth-550-hp-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/aston-martin-rapide-s-adds-an-extra-consonant-worth-550-hp-w-vi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Goodbye Aston Martin Rapide. Hello Aston Martin Rapide S. That's right, Aston Martin has unveiled an updated version of its famously beautiful four-door and given its name a new consonant to boot.

The 'S' probably stands for "Sport," as the new Rapide's most significant upgrade is under the bonnet where Aston's V12 has been poked and prodded to produce 550 horsepower, a stout 80 more units of equine oomph than last year's model. Torque is likewise up 14 pound-feet to 457 at 5,000 rpm. Performance has improved in turn, with the Rapide S now able to reach 60 miles per hour in 4.7 seconds compared to 5.1 seconds before and its top speed climbing to 190 mph.

All 6.0 liters of the Rapide's engine now sit 19 millimeters lower than before, which aids handling along with the car's new adaptive suspension, tagged with the inspiring moniker of "Adaptive Damping System." ADS offers drivers three settings: Normal, Sport and Track, the latter of which implies the Rapide S will be able make the most of its newfound power.

Of course, if the Rapide is known for anything, it's the car's devastatingly good looks, and Aston has been somewhat careful here so as not to alter a curve the wrong way and ruin the Rapide's main selling point. What has changed is the grille, which grows in size and shrinks in number to just a single gaping maw. While still the face of a super model, Aston Martin won't be shaking the comparison to recent Ford designs with this one. There's also a subtle reworking of the car's rear decklid, but otherwise the Rapide S is as stunning as it always was, and a new Carbon Exterior Pack will add those precious fibers to all the major exterior trim pieces.

Aston has spared the interior from much change, instead offering a new piano black interior pack and debuting Duotone perforated red and black leather in the Rapide S.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but Aston Martin says the new Rapide S will be available to order worldwide next month. We're pretty sure its price tag will remain above $200,000, though, so maybe the 'S' stands for "So Not Gonna Happen On My Salary."

Continue reading Aston Martin Rapide S adds an extra consonant worth 550 hp [w/video]

Aston Martin Rapide S adds an extra consonant worth 550 hp [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 20:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 aston martin rapide2014 aston martin rapideaston martinrapiderapide sTue, 22 Jan 2013 20:51:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20435918/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/22/aston-martin-rapide-s-adds-an-extra-consonant-worth-550-hp-w-vi/20435918/article-detail.xml 20435918 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/rapides20-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/rapides20-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin celebrates milestone with Centenary Vanquish]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/aston-martin-celebrates-milestone-with-centenary-vanquish/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/aston-martin-celebrates-milestone-with-centenary-vanquish/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/aston-martin-celebrates-milestone-with-centenary-vanquish/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition

Aston Martin is marking its 100th anniversary with special edition versions of its V8 Vantage, DB9, Rapide and Vanquish. The automaker will only build 100 Centenary Edition versions of each car. The first of those is the Vanquish, which boasts a special graduated paint finish and sterling silver badges with a unique enamel inlay. Indoors, buyers can expect to find the same Deep Soft leather as used in the One-77, complete with contrast silver stitching and sterling silver sill plates bearing the car's individual number.

Those who pony up the cash for the Centenary models will also receive a box packed full of exclusive "gifts," including two glass keys, bespoke key pouches, silver cuff links, a silver Rollerball pen and a pair of Bang & Olufsen headphones. There's a silver polishing cloth in there as well. Near as we can tell, the Centenary Editions will remain mechanically identical to their non-bejeweled counterparts. You can check out the full press release below and take a look at a slew of special models from the company's first 100 years in the gallery.

Continue reading Aston Martin celebrates milestone with Centenary Vanquish

Aston Martin celebrates milestone with Centenary Vanquish originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinaston martin centennialaston martin vanquish centenary editioncentenary editiondb9rapidev8 vantagevanquishWed, 16 Jan 2013 16:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20430589/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/16/aston-martin-celebrates-milestone-with-centenary-vanquish/20430589/article-detail.xml 20430589 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/aston-martin-vanquish-centenary-edition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/aston-martin-vanquish-centenary-edition-628.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin Rapide S spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/08/aston-martin-rapide-s-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/08/aston-martin-rapide-s-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/08/aston-martin-rapide-s-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



In May 2011 our spy photographers caught this Aston Martin lapping the Nürburgring. Supposition at the time was that it is a faster, more powerful Rapide S that would offer up to 50 more horsepower under the hood and a tweaked grille and bumper so that you could pick it out of the line-up.

The rumor remains the same, and the more powerful V12 engine it is expected to employ will bring along ceramic brakes and a revised suspension to manage the additional ponies. With a year between sightings - perhaps due to the production slowdown - it's anyone's guess when it will roll into showrooms, but we wouldn't be surprised at a Paris Motor Show debut.

Aston Martin Rapide S spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 08 Jul 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinparisparis 2012paris motor showrapiderapide sspy photosspy shotsSun, 08 Jul 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20271974/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/08/aston-martin-rapide-s-spotted-testing/20271974/article-detail.xml 20271974 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/rapidesspies-1341611910_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/rapidesspies-1341611910.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin Experience iPhone App]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/aston-martin-experience-iphone-app-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/aston-martin-experience-iphone-app-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/aston-martin-experience-iphone-app-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aston Actually Makes An App For Drivers

Aston Martin Experience App
Aston Martin Experience App - Click above for high-res image gallery

Automaker apps are a dime-a-dozen. But unless you're shopping for a new car or a hyper-obsessive brand devotee, they're about as entertaining as a trip to the service department. So when Aston Martin put out its Experience iPhone app, we weren't entirely enthused. Nor were we ready to shell out $5.99 for another me-too marketing ploy. But then we took a closer look.

In addition to the standard model listings and engine/exhaust sound player (surprise! the One-77 doesn't sound as sweet through a puny set of phone speakers), Aston upped the app game by including a video function that can record your drive, a telemetry display that shows your speed and Gs, and a database of the world's best roads. That last part sold us.

So we called up the crew from Aston and made a pitch. Let us test out the app on one of the routes in North America. All you have to do is supply the car. Two weeks later, Autoblog Director of Photography Drew Phillips and I are blasting up the Pacific Coast Highway in the world's largest iPhone accessory: A 2011 Aston Martin Rapide.

Continue reading Aston Martin Experience iPhone App

Aston Martin Experience iPhone App originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 aston martin rapideastonaston iphone appaston martin experience appaston martin iphone appaston-martinfeaturediphonerapidereviewreviewsMon, 27 Jun 2011 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19976275/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/27/aston-martin-experience-iphone-app-review/19976275/article-detail.xml 19976275 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-aston-martin-experience-app-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-aston-martin-experience-app-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin cutting Rapide production amidst slow sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/aston-martin-cutting-rapide-production-amidst-slow-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/aston-martin-cutting-rapide-production-amidst-slow-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/aston-martin-cutting-rapide-production-amidst-slow-sales/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Aston Martin Rapide
2010 Aston Martin Rapide - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you read the reports of Aston Martin shifting production of its Rapide from its Magna Steyr contract facility in Austria to its own plant in England, and wondered how the company could absorb another assembly line, we could have our answer right here.

According to reports, Aston is preparing to significantly cut production of the Rapide in response to lagging sales. The four-door Aston was planned in 2007 for 2000 units per year, but shortly after that, the global luxury market collapsed, and sales prospects for the four-door coupe began to dwindle.

As a result, production of the Rapide could be reduced to just 1,250 units per year, or even further. And if one model's sales are dwindling, we might assume that some of the others - such as the Vantage or DB9/DBS lines - could be cutting back production as well, leaving excess capacity at the company's headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire.

Whether demand is there or not, sources estimate that the premature termination of the Magna Steyr deal could end up costing Aston as much as £10 million - that's over $16 million at current exchange rates.

Aston Martin cutting Rapide production amidst slow sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martin rapideaston-martingaydonmagna steyrrapideThu, 16 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19968719/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/16/aston-martin-cutting-rapide-production-amidst-slow-sales/19968719/article-detail.xml 19968719 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web03amrapidereview2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web03amrapidereview2011.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin shifting Rapide production from Magna Steyr to Gaydon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/aston-martin-shifting-rapide-production-from-magna-steyr-to-gayd/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/aston-martin-shifting-rapide-production-from-magna-steyr-to-gayd/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/aston-martin-shifting-rapide-production-from-magna-steyr-to-gayd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aston Martin Rapide production at Magna Steyr
Aston Martin Rapide production at Magna Steyr

Aston Martin may make more than sports cars these days, but sports cars are all that are built at its own facility. The Cygnet city car is built by Toyota (though trimmed out by Aston's own) and the Rapide is built by Magna Steyr on a dedicated assembly line. But that last bit is about to change as the four-door coupe shifts its production to the company's own assembly plant at Gaydon in Warwickshire, England.

The move will take effect in the second half of next year, and follows an expansion of the Gaydon facility, which itself followed the shift there from the historic compound at Newport Pagnell. Aston Martin went to lengths to stress that the shift comes about as a result of its own increasing capabilities, and not because of any failure on Steyr's part. But whatever the reasoning, the news can't be good for the Austrian supplier. Official announcement after the jump.

Continue reading Aston Martin shifting Rapide production from Magna Steyr to Gaydon

Aston Martin shifting Rapide production from Magna Steyr to Gaydon originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martin rapideaston-martingaydonmagnamagna steyrrapidesteyrwarwickshireWed, 08 Jun 2011 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19960426/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/08/aston-martin-shifting-rapide-production-from-magna-steyr-to-gayd/19960426/article-detail.xml 19960426 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/rapide-magna2web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/rapide-magna2web.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin Rapide S undergoing testing on the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/aston-martin-rapide-s-undergoing-testing-in-england/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/aston-martin-rapide-s-undergoing-testing-in-england/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/aston-martin-rapide-s-undergoing-testing-in-england/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Aston Martin Rapide S spy shots
Aston Martin Rapide S spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Word on the street is that Aston Martin is developing a faster, more powerful version of its Rapide four-door, a rumor fueled by new spy shots snapped on Germany's infamous Nürburgring. The camouflaged prototype pictured above appears to pack a revised front end and tail, with larger intakes up front and a lip spoiler and reshaped bumper around back.

Underneath the revised fascias, sources expect to find the 510-horsepower V12 from the DBS to upgrade from the DB9-spec 470-hp mill already in place in the "standard" Rapide. Couple this with carbon-ceramic brakes and revised suspension, and the Rapide S is starting to shape up as a real barnstormer.

In short, if the existing Rapide is a four-door DB9, expect the Rapide S to come in as a four-door DBS - suitable for carrying 007 and not just one, but three Bond girls to their next mission or exotic locale.

Aston Martin Rapide S undergoing testing on the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 May 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin rapideaston martin rapide saston rapiderapiderapide sspy photosspy picsspy shotsThu, 26 May 2011 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19950786/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/26/aston-martin-rapide-s-undergoing-testing-in-england/19950786/article-detail.xml 19950786 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/04-aston-martin-rapide-s-spy-shots630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/04-aston-martin-rapide-s-spy-shots630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez to auction his own Rapide for Japan disaster relief]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/aston-martin-ceo-ulrich-bez-to-auction-his-own-rapide-for-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/aston-martin-ceo-ulrich-bez-to-auction-his-own-rapide-for-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/aston-martin-ceo-ulrich-bez-to-auction-his-own-rapide-for-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dr. Ulrich Bez and his Aston Martin Rapide
Dr. Ulrich Bez and his Aston Martin Rapide - Click above for high-res image

Presiding over any large corporation has its demands, but also its share of perks. Especially when the company in question is an automaker like Aston Martin. The British carmaker's chief executive Dr. Ulrich Bez has his own Rapide to drive to and from work every day and also to represent the company at various events... but not for long.

As part of its upcoming auction - orchestrated at its historic facility in Newport Pagnell, England, by Bonhams - Bez has donated his own Rapide that will go to the highest bidder to raise funds for relief efforts in Japan following the devastating earthquake and tsunami that has ravaged the country.

The model in question, chassis number F00039, is a right-hand-drive model built in 2009. It's painted Concours Blue with Obsidian Black leather with Falcon Grey top-stitching and black carpets offset by walnut veneers. Bonhams will waive its commission for this particular lot that will be auction on Saturday, May 21. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez to auction his own Rapide for Japan disaster relief

Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez to auction his own Rapide for Japan disaster relief originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 aston martin rapideaston martinbezbonhamsdr ulrich bezjapanjapan donationnewport pagnellrapideulrich bezTue, 10 May 2011 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19935399/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/10/aston-martin-ceo-ulrich-bez-to-auction-his-own-rapide-for-japan/19935399/article-detail.xml 19935399 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/bez-rapideweb630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/bez-rapideweb630.jpg <![CDATA[2011 World Car Awards: How close it was]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/27/2011-world-car-awards-how-close-it-was/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/27/2011-world-car-awards-how-close-it-was/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/27/2011-world-car-awards-how-close-it-was/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2011 Nissan Leaf wins World Car of the Year

On Thursday the 21st of April, the seventh annual World Car Awards were given out in a ceremony at the New York International Auto Show that was duly covered by Autoblog.

Full disclosure: I, Matt Davis, European Editor of this online obsession Autoblog, am both a co-founder and co-chair of the World Car Awards, and I intend to shamelessly soapbox herein about the WCAs, at least until the bosses toss me out on the sidewalk.

The WCAs comprise four awards: World Green Car, World Car Design, World Performance Car, and overall World Car of the Year - known as the WCotY. There is no other widely known award even remotely like this, as all four take into account truly global cars from every region of the world. The overall WCotY, in particular, pits cars of every type from every make on the globe, some of which may not be available in the English-speaking world, against one another and, in the end, we 66 international jurors shake out a winner, two runners-up, and the rest.

Continue Reading 2011 World Car Awards: How close it was...

Continue reading 2011 World Car Awards: How close it was

2011 World Car Awards: How close it was originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 aston martin rapide2011 chevrolet volt2011 ferrari 458 italia2011 new york2011 nissan leaf2011 world car awards458 italiafeaturedleafrapidevoltworld car of the yearWed, 27 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19922205/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/27/2011-world-car-awards-how-close-it-was/19922205/article-detail.xml 19922205 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/nissan-leaf-world-coty_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/nissan-leaf-world-coty.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Nissan Leaf named World Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2011-nissan-leaf-named-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2011-nissan-leaf-named-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2011-nissan-leaf-named-world-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Nissan Leaf
2011 World Car of the Year winners - Click above for high-res image gallery

World Car of the Year AwardsBig congratulations go to the 2011 Nissan Leaf this morning, as it has just been named the 2011 World Car of the Year. The Leaf garnered more votes than the 2011 Audi A8 and 2011 BMW 5 Series, the other two finalists for the World Car title. In 2010, the Volkswagen Polo took home this award.

The Leaf was not the only super-efficient car to be awarded today, as the 2011 Chevrolet Volt was named Green Car of the Year. Oddly, the Volt was named 2011 North American Car of the Year, while the Leaf was merely a runner-up.

In the less-efficient realm of the industry, the 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia was named World Performance Car of the Year, and the sleek 2011 Aston Martin Rapide was given the World Design of the Year crown.


Gallery: 2011 World Car of the Year Winners

2011 Nissan Leaf2011 Nissan Leaf2011 Chevrolet Volt2011 Chevrolet Volt2011 Aston Martin Rapide

Photos copyright (C)2011 AOL

2011 Nissan Leaf named World Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 aston martin rapide2011 chevrolet volt2011 new york2011 new york auto show2011 nissan leaf458 italiaaston martinchevroletferrarileafnew yorknew york auto shownissanrapidevoltworld car of the yearThu, 21 Apr 2011 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19919966/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/21/2011-nissan-leaf-named-world-car-of-the-year/19919966/article-detail.xml 19919966 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/lead1nissanleaf2011fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/lead1nissanleaf2011fd.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin Rapide Luxe raises the stakes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/14/aston-martin-rapide-luxe-raises-the-stakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/14/aston-martin-rapide-luxe-raises-the-stakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/14/aston-martin-rapide-luxe-raises-the-stakes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Aston Martin Rapide Luxe
Aston Martin Rapide Luxe - Click above for image gallery

If you're in the market for a luxurious four-door, you'd be hard pressed to do better than the Aston Martin Rapide. But now the British automaker has announced an even more exclusive package called the Rapide Luxe.

Over and above all the bells and whistles that come standard on the Rapide, the Luxe trim gets you a selection of exclusive color options (including Quantum Silver and Concours Blue), a custom-fitted leather luggage set matched to the hides of the car's interior, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, plus glass switchgear and keyfob. Just when you thought the existing Rapide was as good as it gets...

Follow the link for a closer look and check out the images in the gallery below for more details.


Gallery: Aston Martin Rapide Luxe


[Source: Aston Martin via autoblog.nl]

Aston Martin Rapide Luxe raises the stakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Nov 2010 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin rapideaston martin rapide luxeaston rapideluxemartinrapiderapide luxeSun, 14 Nov 2010 20:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19716049/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/14/aston-martin-rapide-luxe-raises-the-stakes/19716049/article-detail.xml 19716049 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-astonmartinrapideluxe-3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-astonmartinrapideluxe-3.jpg <![CDATA[Lagonda crossover reportedly scrapped in favor of Rapide-based sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/06/lagonda-crossover-reportedly-scrapped-in-favor-of-rapide-based-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/06/lagonda-crossover-reportedly-scrapped-in-favor-of-rapide-based-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/06/lagonda-crossover-reportedly-scrapped-in-favor-of-rapide-based-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Aston Martin Rapide - Click above for high-res image gallery

Aston Martin Lagonda hasn't lacked for four-door models in its history, but its latest efforts have had us all scratching our heads in bewilderment. Instead of badging the Rapide as a Lagonda model, the four-door DB9 derivative came to market instead as an Aston. Meanwhile, the Lagonda badge was resurrected for an odd crossover concept that, let's just say, wasn't warmly received after its unveiling at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

Subsequent reports indicated that the Lagonda concept - reportedly based on a Mercedes platform - was heading back to the drawing boards. The latest reports, however, indicate a different approach. Apparently the crossover has been canned entirely, but that doesn't mean the dormant half of Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd is going back to sleep.

In response to customer complaints that the Rapide was lacking in rear-seat legroom (and it is pretty cramped back there), AML is now reportedly preparing to enlarge the four-door coupe into a more accommodating form that will bear the Lagonda name in the crossover's stead. Sources place the sedan's arrival no sooner than four years from now, so your long-legged friends will have to wait a while longer before they can stretch out in the back of Gaydon's finest.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Aston Martin Lagonda Concept


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Lagonda crossover reportedly scrapped in favor of Rapide-based sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Sep 2010 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin lagondaaston martin rapideaston rapideAstonMartinAstonMartinLagondaAstonMartinRapideAstonRapidelagonda rapideLagondaRapiderapideMon, 06 Sep 2010 18:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19621844/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/06/lagonda-crossover-reportedly-scrapped-in-favor-of-rapide-based-s/19621844/article-detail.xml 19621844 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/rapidereview_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/rapidereview.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is a modern day Femme Fatale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/08/2010-aston-martin-rapide-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/08/2010-aston-martin-rapide-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/08/2010-aston-martin-rapide-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Aston Martin Rapide - Click above for high-res image gallery

Do you like noir? No, not the perfume, the literary and film genre. You know, hard-boiled crooks, wise-cracking private eyes, Los Angeles under cover of night and blondes so blonde they'll kill you dead. Those blondes are, of course, are better known as femme fatales, and in truth, the color of their hair doesn't really matter. Think Theda Bera, Rita Hayworth, Mary Astor, Barbara Stanwyck and Marlene Dietrich. And let's not forget the lovely Lana Turner - she's the one, in a case of life imitating art, with the daughter that killed Mickey Cohen's strongman/goon Johnny Stompanato. In other words, women so pretty you'd throw your life away just so they know you're throwing your life away.

Here's the free, online-encyclopedia definition of femme fatale in case you're still wondering: "An alluring and seductive woman whose charms ensnare her lovers in bonds of irresistible desire, often leading them into compromising, dangerous and deadly situations."

Let's state up front that the 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is not, to our knowledge, unsafe in any way, shape or form. But man, oh man, is it seductive enough to make us overlook every single bad thing about it. That, or walk into an uncovered manhole cover while staring at it. Anyhow, "irresistible desire" and "compromising situations" are this British superstar's raison d'etre. Philip Marlowe would eat his fedora just for a ride. Thankfully, we had to perform no such theatrics: Aston Martin simply let us borrow their car.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is a modern day Femme Fatale

Review: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is a modern day Femme Fatale originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Aston Martin Rapide2010 Rapide2010AstonMartinRapide2010RapideAston Martinaston martin rapide road testAston martin road testAstonMartinAstonMartinRapideRoadTestAstonMartinRoadTestfeaturedRapiderapide reviewrapide road testRapideReviewRapideRoadTestReviewreviewsThu, 08 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19545416/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/08/2010-aston-martin-rapide-review/19545416/article-detail.xml 19545416 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1amrapidereview2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1amrapidereview2011.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin to field near-stock Rapide at Nürburgring 24]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/06/aston-martin-to-field-near-stock-rapide-at-nurburgring-24/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/06/aston-martin-to-field-near-stock-rapide-at-nurburgring-24/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/06/aston-martin-to-field-near-stock-rapide-at-nurburgring-24/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Aston Martin Rapide Nürburgring racer - Click above for high-res image

Round-the-clock endurance races typically demand the participation of three or even four-man teams, taking shifts as the sun rises and falls on the circuit. The car they're driving, though, doesn't usually have the capacity to carry the entire team. But as if to emphasize once again the true sporting nature of its latest product, Aston Martin will be taking on the competition this year at the Nürburgring 24 in a damn-near-bone-stock Rapide.

In addition to its innumerable victories in Le Mans-class racing, Aston has had great success at the 'Ring in the SP8 category, which it has won the past two years running. In fact last year, a V12 Vantage took the class win and placed 21st overall in the race, outshining a wide array of dedicated race machinery.

Like the V12 Vantage (which will also run this year's event) the Rapide endurance racer will run with very few modifications, limited largely to the removal of interior trim, the addition of some mandatory safety equipment, and racing slicks mounted to a readjusted suspension. That's about it. Aston chief Dr. Ulrich Bez will once again lead the team of factory drivers, and we'll be watching on May 15-16 to see if the four-door can make it three-for-three. Full details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide


Gallery: Aston Martin V12 Vantage at the Ring


[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston Martin to field near-stock Rapide at Nürburgring 24

Aston Martin to field near-stock Rapide at Nürburgring 24 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 aston martin2011 rapide2011AstonMartin2011Rapide24 hours of nurburgring24HoursOfNurburgringastonaston martinaston martin rapideaston martin rapide n24aston rapideAstonMartinAstonMartinRapideAstonMartinRapideN24AstonRapiden24NordschleifeNurburgringNurburgring24rapiderapide n24RapideN24Tue, 06 Apr 2010 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19427992/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/06/aston-martin-to-field-near-stock-rapide-at-nurburgring-24/19427992/article-detail.xml 19427992 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/rapide-n24_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/rapide-n24.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is always ready for its close-up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/18/2010-aston-martin-rapide-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/18/2010-aston-martin-rapide-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/18/2010-aston-martin-rapide-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Aston Martin Rapide - Click above for high-res image gallery

The world's best-looking four-door sedan beckoned us from Miami. Enticed, we boarded a jet and paid the 2010 Aston Martin Rapide a visit. Our task was to shuttle Aston Martin's first four-sedan up the coast to Palm Beach - someone had to do it. Of course, we took the circuitous route and spent the day blissfully putting her through the paces as we leisurely motored our way north.

Why did the British automaker design a sedan - and what is hiding under its skin? What is it like to drive? How are those rear-seat accommodations? Most importantly, how does the Rapide measure up to the Porsche Panamera and Maserati Quattroporte? The answers and more after the jump...


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide


Photos by Michael Harley / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is always ready for its close-up

First Drive: 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is always ready for its close-up originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 aston martin rapide2010AstonMartinRapideaston martiaston martin rapideAstonMartiAstonMartinRapidefeaturedfirst driveFirstDriverapideThu, 18 Mar 2010 11:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19404504/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/18/2010-aston-martin-rapide-first-drive/19404504/article-detail.xml 19404504 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/01amrapidefd2011opta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/01amrapidefd2011opta.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Aston Martin Rapide shows its true colors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/17/pics-aplenty-aston-martin-rapide-shows-its-true-colors/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/17/pics-aplenty-aston-martin-rapide-shows-its-true-colors/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/17/pics-aplenty-aston-martin-rapide-shows-its-true-colors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Aston Martin Rapide in Hardly Green - Click above for high-res image gallery

You might remember that we already posted quite a few photos of the Aston Martin Rapide, but apparently the British automaker thought that wasn't enough. Dozens of new photos have been released of this fabulous four-door showing just about every detail and angle.

The photos also display the Rapide in a variety of colors. Feeling feisty? Check out the Rapide in Magma Red. Want something classically British? Go for Hardly Green. And if you're in the mood for something more subdued, the Quantum Silver or Silver Blonde will surely do. You can view each of the colors in the high-res galleries below.


Gallery: Aston Martin Rapide - Hardly Green


Gallery: Aston Martin Rapide - Silver Blonde


Gallery: Aston Martin Rapide - Quantum Silver


Gallery: Aston Martin Rapide - Magma Red


[Source: Aston Martin]

Pics Aplenty: Aston Martin Rapide shows its true colors originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011AstonMartinRapideaston martinaston martin rapideAstonMartinAstonMartinRapiderapideWed, 17 Feb 2010 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19361030/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/17/pics-aplenty-aston-martin-rapide-shows-its-true-colors/19361030/article-detail.xml 19361030 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/13rapidehardlygreenopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/13rapidehardlygreenopt.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin Rapide to start at $199,950 in the U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/aston-martin-rapide-to-cost-199-950-in-the-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/aston-martin-rapide-to-cost-199-950-in-the-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/aston-martin-rapide-to-cost-199-950-in-the-us/#commentsFiled under: ,


Aston Martin Rapide - Click above for high-res image gallery

A couple of days after announcing U.K. pricing for the the new Rapide, Aston Martin has now also priced the North American version of its slinky four-door. When Aston starts deliveries of its newest model next spring, U.S. customers will have to pony up a minimum of $199,950. Aston Martin dealers will doubtless provide clients with the opportunity to substantially elevate that price tag via costly personalization options. After all, when you're dropping that kind of coin, you don't want to see yourself coming and going all the time.

The Rapide will be the first Aston Martin produced outside of Great Britain once cars start rolling off the line in Graz, Austria. The special factory was set up in cooperation with Magna Steyr prior to the global financial collapse, back when the Gaydon factory that makes the other Astons was running at full capacity. In these post-meltdown days, the decision about where to produce the car may have been very different. If you have the means, your local dealer is taking orders now. Official press release available after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Aston Martin Rapide


[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston Martin Rapide to start at $199,950 in the U.S.

Aston Martin Rapide to start at $199,950 in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin rapideaston martin rapide priceAstonMartinAstonMartinRapideAstonMartinRapidePricerapiderapide priceRapidePriceSun, 06 Dec 2009 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19267251/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/06/aston-martin-rapide-to-cost-199-950-in-the-us/19267251/article-detail.xml 19267251 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/astonmartinrapide001_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/astonmartinrapide001_opt.jpg -1 2