Published: Jul 05, 2012

Aston Martin Rapide S testing at the Nurburgring

Upgraded Rapide S packs 520hp engine from DBS.

With the new Vanquish set to replace the DBS and a V12 Vantage Roadster on its way, Aston Martin is turning its attention to the Rapide. This prototype was spied testing at the vaunted Nurburgring, hinting at a range of upgrades to the company's sole four-door model. Sporting an enlarged grille, an upsized spoiler and a bigger rear diffuser, the Rapide S is expected to carry the same 6.0-liter V12 that powers the current model (as well as most of Aston Martin's other models), but with more power.

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The engine is tipped to carry over from the erstwhile flagship DBS, bringing output up from 470 horsepower in the current Rapide to approximately 510. Coupled with an upgraded chassis, the revisions are anticipated to drop the 0-60 time of the enhanced Rapide S down below the five-second mark, along with a higher top speed for romps down the Autobahn. Expect the Rapide S to hit showrooms before the end of the year.