Aston Martin Rapide AMR unveiled

Last month, Aston Martin's performance arm unveiled the DB11 AMR. Its second model of the year will be the recently revealed hardcore Aston Martin Rapide AMR – the last hurrah for the Rapide S before the four-door sedan goes off sale in 2020 and is indirectly replaced by Aston’s first SUV, the DBX.

Talking about the model, Aston boss Andy Palmer says that the model has “enhanced performance, sharper dynamics and more powerful design language” which, as a result, “has taken Rapide to new and exciting extremes.”

The production model Rapide AMR — which predictably costs more than the standard Rapide S — is very close to the original concept shown at the Geneva motor show, back in 2017. Its front grille is reminiscent of the track-only Vantage AMR Pro and circular daytime running lights are similar to recent Zagato models.

The AMR variant maintains the same 0-100kph time as the standard Rapide S (4.2sec) and shares the same naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine, putting out 630Nm of torque. However, it gets uprated power – 603hp, as opposed to its predecessor's 553hp. The increase in power is achieved by enhanced airflow to the engine as a result of larger inlet manifolds as well as new engine and gearbox calibration.

The Rapide AMR sits 10mm lower than the Rapide S and the British carmaker says that its adaptive dampers have been re-engineered to be “more focused, agile and dynamic.”

The Rapide AMR clocks a top speed of 330kph, which is 3kph faster than the Rapide S. It also has a retuned suspension and optimised aerodynamics. Extra aerodynamic bodywork includes a carbon-fibre splitter, sills, rear diffuser and boot-lid-lip spoiler. A new bonnet with large ventilation insets is also made of carbon fibre.

It gets new 21-inch wheels — a first for Aston — paired with Michelin Super Sport tyres designed to aid brake cooling. The carbon-ceramic brakes measure 400mm at the front with six-piston callipers and 360mm at the rear with four-piston callipers. To further aid brake cooling, the Rapide AMR uses a version of the Vanquish S’s cooling system with modified brake ducts and dust shields.

Inside, there is a full-length carbon-fibre centre control and the seats are made with Alcanatara — both firsts for a Rapide. Each car gets AMR logos stitched into the seats and a limited-edition AMR plaque on the carbon sills.

There are three design schemes on offer – Standard, Silhouette and Signature. The Signature scheme gets Stirling Green paint with lime accents and stripe and draws the closest visual link to the classic livery of Aston Martin's race cars.

The Rapide AMR has a limited production of 210 cars. First customer deliveries are scheduled for autumn.