Aston Martin has revealed a myriad of changes to the Vanquish and Rapide S for 2015, including the introduction of an eight speed automatic gearbox.
The company believes that they will be successful in delivering considerably enhanced performance, fuel economy and a more involving driving experience.
Working with transmission specialists ZF, the Aston Martin Vanquish and Rapide S both incorporate the new eight speed gearbox. Despite adding two more gears, the Touchtronic III is three percent lighter than its predecessor, and takes up the same amount of room.
Software changes have also been made to the gearbox, which now includes settings such as ‘Drive’ and ‘Drive Sport’. ‘Paddle Shift’ and ‘Paddle Shift Sport’ have also been introduced.
The transmission changes also make an immediate difference on the 0-60 times of both cars. Both are reduced: the Vanquish drops from 4.1 seconds to 3.6, while the Rapide has a slight drop of half a second from 4.7 to 4.2. The Vanquish becomes the fastest accelerating model in the company’s history, with both models now capable of reaching speeds of over 200mph.
The changes to the gears also make the car more green than before. In both the Vanquish and Rapide S, CO2 emissions are reduced by an average of ten percent. The Vanquish boasts figures of 298g/km, whilst the Rapide S gives off 300g/km.
Engine power also benefits from the changes made, the Vanquish will rising from 564bhp to 568bhp. Similarly the Rapide S increases by 2bhp to 552bhp.
Changes have also been made to make the driving of the Vanquish and the Rapide S more enjoyable. Aston claims the steering is more responsive and accurate while further changes ensure less noise intrudes into the cabin.
Minor styling tweaks have also been executed on both models with new ten-spoke forged alloy wheels saving 7kg of weight, while new paint options are also now available, including Diavalo Red, which was previously only available on the V12 Zagato.
Inside, the cars have been given new leather trim colour options, including Navy blue, and Fandango Pink. The Rapide S also gains the option of a new Duotone leather seat finish in Sahara Tan and Vibrant Red.
Parkers will bring you full details of the new models when we test them in the coming months.
