June 3rd in Cape Town not only marked the birthday of a good friend but also the launch of a new vehicle. The Aston Martin Rapide. While I love all things powerful, beautiful and coupe [in terms of vehicles of course…] this all changed with the launch of the Aston Martin Rapide.

Yes, this is a four door Aston and Aston Martin have not only managed to keep the looks but managed to create a car that seats four and this time went out their way to go over the top in terms of attention to detail, secret gadgets and just pure refinement. Every design line is smooth and flowing inside and out and there’s that sense that you’ve arrived once setting sight upon this vehicle. Let’s not forget the power brought to you by the 6 litre V12 engine from the DB9 pushing out 350kW. The boot isn’t very big but it does have a dual compartment which can be revealed by lifting a panel and it has funky magnetic catches. Now there’s definitely no excuse now not to buy a sports car if you have a family.

Stepping inside the vehicle, you’re not only basked in luxury and comfort but also the soft and comfortable bucket-style seats really make you feel in control, whether you’re the driver or passenger. This is because all four seats are designed in this way and separate, not to mention hand-stitching adding to the sense of luxury and detail. Everything in the interior fits, from the long centre console which stretches all the way to the rear, to the screens in the seats. For those times that the family may not want to hear that sonorous and torquey V12, not to worry, there’s a 1000w Bang & Olufsen that will definitely keep you entertained especially for those audiophiles. There’s some secret gadgets to this vehicle but you’ll have to check that out for yourself.

The designer of Aston Martin as well as the beautiful One 77 featured in the Johannesburg launch but while that wasn’t at the Cape Town launch, the Rapide, beautiful people and great company more than made up for it. It is really Power, Beauty, Soul. The Aston Martin Rapide in South Africa will cost you R2.8 Million (± €300000) but that’s perfect because you’re not only getting a sports car but a family car as well.

http://www.astonmartin.co.za/
http://www.astonmartin.com/