Best Car Reviews - 2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

Introduction

The 2014 Aston Martin Rapide S represents a pinnacle of luxury and performance within the subcompact car segment. Released in an era where luxury automakers aspired to blend athleticism with opulence, the Rapide S is targeted at affluent buyers who seek both exhilarating performance and a refined driving experience. What sets this model apart is its 12-cylinder engine, meticulous craftsmanship, and its ability to seamlessly transition from a high-speed tourer to an everyday luxury vehicle.

Design and Exterior Features

The design of the Aston Martin Rapide S is truly a work of art. Its elegant silhouette and aerodynamic contours whisper luxury and speed even before the engine starts.

Dimensions: The car measures 5019 mm in length, lending it a majestic road presence.
Signature Grille: The distinctive Aston Martin grille has been widened for a bolder appearance.
Headlights: Sleek LED headlights that enhance both aesthetics and nighttime visibility.
Alloy Wheels: 20-inch alloy wheels add a degree of sportiness to the classic design.

The car echoes its predecessors in elegance but introduces enhancements that elevate its visual appeal, making the Rapide S a standout in its class.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the Rapide S is where luxury takes center stage. The cabin is an exquisite blend of premium leather, wood trims, and state-of-the-art technology.

Seating: Four individual bucket seats wrapped in high-quality leather.
Dashboard: Features an intricately designed central console and dashboard.
Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort.
Sound System: A high-fidelity 1000-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system for an unparalleled sound experience.

The interior is crafted to provide utmost comfort while retaining the athletic genes of the Aston Martin lineage.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Aston Martin Rapide S boasts a 6.0-liter V12 engine, engineered to deliver intense performance and an unforgettable driving experience.

Horsepower: 550 hp
0-100 km/h: Achieved in a mere 4.4 seconds.
Transmission: Paired with a 6-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission.
Fuel Efficiency: Consumes approximately 19.8 l/100 km, befitting its performance profile.

The Rapide S excels in various driving scenarios:

City Driving: Smooth and manageable with surprising agility.
Highway: Demonstrates remarkable stability at high speeds.
Turns: Handles corners with precision and confidence, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive system.

Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the precise blend of power, accuracy, and exhilaration.

Technology and Connectivity

The Rapide S integrates a selection of advanced technology and connectivity features, reflecting Aston Martin's commitment to innovation.

Infotainment System: Comes with an LCD screen that offers intuitive navigation and media controls.
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB inputs, and an iPod interface ensure multimedia flexibility.
Driver Assistance: Features include cruise control and parking sensors.

Standout tech features provide both driving ease and entertainment, although some critics point to the infotainment system as being slightly outdated compared to more recent competitors.

Safety Features

Safety is not compromised, as the Rapide S comes equipped with a wealth of features designed to protect and provide peace of mind.

Airbags: Includes front, side, and curtain airbags.
Stability Control: Enhanced stability and traction control systems.
Brake Features: Advanced anti-lock brake system ensures braking efficiency.

Certification and crash test ratings were not conducted by local authorities due to the vehicle's exclusive and limited-production nature, yet Aston Martin's reputation in safety remains impeccable.

Pricing and Variants

The 2014 Aston Martin Rapide S starts at an estimated $201,000 USD. Compared to competitors like the Porsche Panamera, the Rapide S is visibly a more premium offering with its high-end craftsmanship and performance prowess.

A combination of luxury and speed, the Rapide S is a strong statement of value, even with a higher price tag than some of its rivals.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exceptional performance and acceleration.
Luxurious and comfortable interior.
Iconic design and build quality.
Superior brand prestige.
Unique offering in its class.

Cons

High fuel consumption for regular use.
Limited interior space for rear passengers.
Infotainment system could be more current.
Expensive maintenance costs.
Higher price point compared to some competitors.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Maintaining the Rapide S is a commitment, with annual costs estimated around $3,000-5,000. Common issues reflect the high-performance nature of the vehicle.

Electrical system glitches.
Suspension wear and tear.
Brake component wear.
Transmission tuning.
Tire wear due to sporty driving.

Rating

Design: 9.5/10
Comfort: 9/10
Performance: 9.5/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 8/10

Overall Rating: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The Rapide S is an absolute delight on the highway, with its smooth drive and plush seats."
"Fuel economy is not its strong suit, but the performance makes up for it tenfold."
"The interior craftsmanship is unmatched; it feels like driving a piece of art."
"Aston Martin has nailed the perfect blend of performance and luxury."
"The infotainment could use an update, but everything else is top-notch."

Users praise its exceptional driving dynamics and luxurious interior, with minor criticisms on technology updates.

Best Cars in this Category

2014 Porsche Panamera
2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe
2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
2014 Jaguar XJ
2014 Audi S7

Summary

The 2014 Aston Martin Rapide S is best suited for enthusiasts who demand a high-performance machine while maintaining an air of exclusivity and luxury. Its exceptional build quality, combined with a thrilling driving experience, positions it as a standout in its class. Despite a few technological drawbacks, the Rapide S offers unparalleled craftsmanship and prestige, making it a sound investment for those who value performance and luxury.