Aston Martin's Rapide sedan takes a leisurely 9-minute run 'round the 'Ring, all the better for clear photographs from our spy photographer. Yes, this does look like a low-cost publicity stunt, a way to say, "look, we're still here and it's on its way!" While rumor was the Rapide would arrive as late as 2010, this spy shot indicates a production-ready car, one that could make its debut at the Paris motor show this October. That means it will hit showrooms in time to compete with the Porsche Panamera, although the Aston is likely to be a much more expensive car.
If it is, indeed, at Paris, expect European sales shortly after, and U.S. sales by early 2009. Under its new owners, the David Richards-led Middle-Eastern consortium, Aston has been working on the full panoramic sunroof (which used transparent polycarbonate for the 2006 Detroit show concept).
The Rapide will ride on Aston's VH aluminum platform, and if the Detroit concept is any guide, will use the DB9's V-12, upgraded to 480 horsepower and will have ceramic brakes. Aston Martin plans to sell 3,000 to 3,500 per year, making it much more rare than the Porsche Panamera, which is scheduled for 20,000 per year.