Aston built outside UK

The Rapide model is also their first four-seat model since the Lagonda Rapide in 1961.

So why is the Rapide being built at a factory in Graz, Austria, instead of the firm's state-of-the-art HQ at Gaydon, Warwickshire?

When the Rapide was first planned three years ago there was no prediction of a global recession and Gaydon was working at full capacity.

New models were on the way and there was simply not enough production space at the factory to build the Rapide.

So Aston chose Magna Steyr, a specialist car plant in Graz which already builds models for BMW and Mercedes, with 240 Austrian workers preparing to build up to 2,000 Rapides a year from early 2010.

Aston Martin Rapide four-door coupe

If you have ever been in the presence, or even more thrilling-in one of the seats, of an Aston Martin, you know just how dramatic and breathtaking they are. From their sensual curves, broadly shouldered rears and wide, charismatic grills; everything about an Aston Martin is balanced to perfection.
The Rapide furthers the brand's commitment to power, while retaining grace and poise. As the first true four-door production sports car from Aston Martin, there are high expectations for the car, but the brand isn't afraid of aiming high: "We wanted to make the most beautiful four-door sports car in the world," said Aston Martin's Director of Design Marek Reichman when the concept was first shown three years ago.
On the outside, the Rapide has all the telltale signs of Aston Martin's unflinching design standards: the iconic side strake is extended to run through the front doors before blending into the rear door, the low roofline, part of the distinctive Aston Martin silhouette, and the unique "swan wing" door design; all lending a striking dynamic to the Rapide's stance.

Aston Martin Rapide Picture

Aston Martin Rapide Gallery

Aston Martin Rapide Photo

Aston Martin Rapide Image
Its elegant, flowing proportions are, as always, those that are integral to Aston Martin's renowned style. Their unique, VH (Vertical/Horizontal) architecture allows for exceptional manufacturing flexibility. The high-strength, low-mass architecture is implemented in all Aston Martins of the current generation, beginning with the DB9 Coupé and flanked by the DB9 Volante and the Vantage.

Aston Martin has achieved exceptional design quality and executed their finesse for hand-finishing and attention to detail flawlessly, apparent in the Rapide's arresting exterior. But the interior is where this eagerly awaited car really strays from the beaten path.

Your first point of contact with the car is the trademark glass starter button, which brings the car to life at the touch of your finger. You are surrounded by the leather-swathed interior, with custom-embossed shagreen hide specially sourced for the Rapide.The transparent polycarbonate roof opens the passengers' awareness beyond the car to the outside while dual climate zones create personal atmospheres inside. Finally, capping off the elegant dashboard is the clock done by existing partners, and experts in luxury craftsmanship themselves, Jaeger-LeCoultre.