2011 Aston Martin Rapide Total Car Score Analysis

The 2011 Aston Martin Rapide does not have enough ratings to establish a valid Total Car Score.  
 
Among a select group of exotic sport sedans, the Rapide is the best looking, or so says the automotive press. However, car critics note the Rapide is a case of form over function. The Rapide’s back seat has adequate head and legroom, but the surrounding pillars and center tunnel intrude on space, creating a claustrophobic feel. The rear seat is best used for children or by adults for only short trips. Vision to the rear is poor and the cargo space behind the rear seat is small for a vehicle of this size.  
 
On the other hand, the Rapide offers a great dynamic experience. It shares its basic architecture with its two-seat and 2+2 Aston Martin stablemates, and the sports car DNA is quite evident. Reviewers say it handles like the smaller Aston Martins, with flat cornering, direct steering and good balance. Critics also like the V12 engine’s glorious sounds, though they note it isn’t as fast as some rivals.  
 
The Rapide was introduced the previous year as the first four-door car in Aston Martin’s near 100-year history. A Luxe package is added for 2011. It offers custom paint and interior colors, as well as several interior amenities.  

2011 Aston Martin Rapide Model Line-Up

The 2011 Aston Martin Rapide is a four-door hatchback sedan that shares a stretched version of the brand’s aluminum, bonded mid front-engine VH architecture.  
 
The Rapide comes in just one lavishly equipped model. The interior, which is wrapped in full-grain leather upholstery, features a 1000-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system, satellite radio, front and rear automatic climate control, heated seats at all corners, Bluetooth connectivity, a navigation system and an iPod/USB interface.  
 
Mechanical components include adaptive shock absorbers, a limited-slip rear differential, and 20-inch wheels on performance tires. The Rapide also comes standard with front and rear park assist and xenon headlights. A Luxe package includes rear DVD entertainment, cooled front and rear seats, a custom six-piece luggage set and unique wheels. The equipment in the Luxe package can be ordered separately. 
 
A 5.9-liter V12 lurks under the hood. It sends its 470 horsepower to a six-speed automatic rear transaxle through a carbon fiber driveshaft.  
 
EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2011 Aston Martin Rapide are 13 mpg city, 19 mpg highway and 15 mpg in mixed driving. 

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