Rapide AMR

Segment
Sedan

When the Aston Martin Rapide was first launched in early 2010, it immediately made the Porsche Panamera look even uglier. Today the British automaker continues to prove that its four-door luxury GT Rapide is still the top model in its segment with the reveal of the facelifted 2014 Rapide S. So first things first: it's now called the Rapide S. Aside from the new name, the most immediate change is the new front-end which now has more assertive styling thanks to a full-size grille.

There's also a few other exterior styling tweaks throughout, including the rear decklid and an optional Carbon Exterior Pack. But it's what under the skin where the most vital upgrades have been made.

There's a new version of the naturally-aspirated 6.0-liter V12 which now produces 17 percent more horsepower over its predecessor. Now rated at 500 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque, the Rapide S can go from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds, compared to 5.1 previously, and can hit a top speed of 190 mph. The big engine now sits 19 millimeters lower compared to its predecessor, which coupled with a new adaptive suspension that Aston calls the "Adaptive Damping System," helps to improve handling. Drivers can select from either Normal, Sport and Track settings according to conditions.

The interior has been mainly left untouched with the exception of a piano black interior trim package as well as Duotone perforated red and black leather seats. Official pricing hasn't been announced but the new Rapide S will be available to order starting next month and will likely have its stage debut at Geneva in March.