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Wednesday, February 18, 2015

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

Rapide S is the most powerful four-door Aston Martin to date
Peak output jumps 17% as new 6.0-litre V12 engine produces 558 PS
More assertive new look emphasises Rapide S’ sports car character

The stunning new Aston Martin Rapide S is making its debut with yet more luxury and yet more power on offer in its quintessentially elegant four-door silhouette.

The iconic British car maker’s new luxury GT has been sympathetically redesigned and painstakingly re-engineered to reassert its position as the world’s most beautiful, and beautifully balanced, four-seat sports car.

Aside from the extensive design and engineering improvements, the luxurious new Rapide S – which replaces the outgoing Rapide in markets worldwide – is now even more refined thanks to a range of additions to the four-seater’s sumptuous interior.

Still instantly recognisable as an Aston Martin, of course, the new Rapide S now boasts an imposing and assertive new ‘face’, created by virtue of the impressive and striking new full grille.

Imbuing the new car with an even more sporting, forceful demeanour, the revised front end design is matched at the back by a striking new rear deck profile which includes a more pronounced boot lid ‘flip’. The aerodynamic and aesthetic upgrades both reinforce the sporting nature of new Rapide S and work to counteract lift at higher speeds.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The Rapide S is to me, without doubt, the most beautiful four-door sports car on the market today. This is, very clearly, the power of luxury in action.

“The car’s stunning visual appeal is now matched by a much more powerful and yet more efficient engine – our exceptional new AM11 V12 – which increases massively both the excitement and performance potential of the Rapide S.

“It is a four-door sports car that uniquely combines luxury, style and sporting excitement in Aston Martin’s most flexible and accommodating silhouette. Purity of proportion and exceptional elegance are mixed with truly sensational dynamic performance – this is the four-door sports car in its most versatile form and I am sure our customers around the world are going to love it!”

Engineered to excel

Changes under the new Rapide’s skin are comprehensive, with a version of the new AM11 naturally-aspirated 6.0-litre V12 powerplant delivering unprecedented power and improved in-gear acceleration. Power from the new engine jumps significantly versus that of its predecessor: up by 17% or a massive 81 PS from 477 PS at 6,000 rpm to a now very substantial 558 PS at 6,750 rpm.

Peak torque increases, too, up from 600 Nm to 620 Nm at 5,000 rpm. Meanwhile an even more marked improvement in torque occurs lower down the rev range, as pulling power rises by more than 40 Nm between idle and 4,000 rpm with an additional 50 Nm available at 2,500 rpm.

Naturally, increases in power and torque lead to even swifter performance as befits a four-door sports car. New Rapide S shaves 0.3 seconds off its 0-62 mph time, which drops from the 5.2 seconds of the current car to just 4.9 seconds for the new model. Top speed climbs, meanwhile, to 190 mph.

The 5,935 cc naturally aspirated V12 boasts race car technology – developments derived directly from Aston Martin Racing’s successful WEC GT campaign – to maximise both performance and efficiency. The new AM11 engine thus boasts fully CNC machined combustion chambers and lighter, hollow, cam shafts.

Dual variable camshaft timing, knock sensing, even the fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system – these are all engineering advances developed to preserve the V12’s position as a mainstay of the Aston Martin range.

The engine is now even more efficient, too. Despite the very significant increase in peak power and torque, the Rapide S is appreciably more economical than before. CO2 emissions drop by seven per cent – from 355 g/km to 332 g/km – while fuel economy now stands at 19.9 mpg on the official EU combined cycle.

A product of the latest generation of Aston Martin’s world-renowned VH engineering philosophy, which debuted in 2003, the new car of course benefits from many elements of the current Gen4 VH architecture. The carefully conceived engineering changes continue as the new Rapide now offers even sharper agility and even quicker responses to driver input. The new AM11 engine – a key Gen4 component – has been lowered by 19 mm versus the position of the powerplant in the previous car, with a corresponding reduction in the sports car’s centre of gravity.

The changes also lead to a tangible improvement in front end turn-in – no mean feat for a car that was already acknowledged as a leader in dynamic performance.

Aston Martin engineers at the company’s global HQ in Gaydon have worked to revise the car’s dynamic stability control (DSC) in line with its significant increases in both power and torque.

As befits the more sporting nature of new Rapide S the car benefits from the latest Gen4 iteration of Aston Martin’s hi-tech Adaptive Damping System (ADS). The system now offers three distinct settings: ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’, with the character of each being tailored to the nature of Rapide S.

The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond quickly to different driving conditions. The different damping modes help to significantly broaden the character of the Rapide S, adapting its set-up to suit the driver’s precise requirements. Thus it can be a luxurious GT car in Normal mode with the capacity to morph into a more assertive sports car in Sport and Track modes.

The damper settings are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car’s systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.

Head of Product Development at Aston Martin, Ian Minards, explains: “Growing the power in a luxury sports car is all very well, but maximising control and ‘usability’ of that increased power is, just as much, the engineers’ challenge.

“Balance, poise and control are the keys to a successful sports car and the dynamic improvements we have made with Rapide S showcase our efforts to make this not just the most beautiful, but also the most beautifully balanced, car in its class.”

He added: “Transmission calibration, ADS refinement, braking capability and engine output optimisation are among the many ‘ingredients’ which the team here at Gaydon have used to create a sports car of unerring quality and excitement.”

Meanwhile, as with the new DB9, the new Rapide S achieves compliance with the latest European pedestrian protection regulations courtesy of its innovative new front grille design.

The lowered engine, new bonnet, new front bumper construction and new grille combine to deliver a uniquely innovative approach to pedestrian impact protection.

The patent-pending design – which features a unique ‘keystone’ construction – enables the grille to move rearwards on impact, whilst the central and outboard chin stiffeners give rigidity to the lower structure and support achievement of the leg impact regulations. Cut-outs on the front wing catwalks contribute to the achievement of the headform regulation.

The solution means Aston Martin can remain true to its design ethos, and avoid the use of plastic grilles and nose cone bumpers that stretch up in front of the bonnet.

First class cabin

As luxurious as it is thrilling, the new car now boasts a host of new luxury- or sports-orientated options, allowing buyers to more precisely tailor the car to their specific style.

The new optional Carbon Exterior Pack, for instance, immediately dials up the Rapide’s sporting attitude. Front splitter, rear diffuser, mirror caps and rear lamp infills all fashioned from carbon fibre clearly signal the sporting nature of this 558 PS four-seater.

More pronounced luxury, on the other hand, comes from the new piano black interior pack that adds a deep, rich, mirror-like shine to the facia, transmission tunnel centre plate and door handles of the Rapide S. A darker surround in the instrument binnacle and steering wheel with black horn-push surround round off the pack’s sumptuous additions. Luxurious blend headlinings in either tan or grey emphasise the luxury still further inside.

As would be expected of a modern Aston Martin, handcrafting is the order of the day in the Rapide S with the standard-fit pure glass transmission selector switches in the centre console one small yet important example of the truly authentic, bespoke, nature of the car’s cabin.

However those with a desire for a more sporting ambience in their sports car will not be disappointed. Optional duotone perforated red and black leather makes its Aston Martin debut here – delivering a captivating visual combination that’s unique to the new Rapide S.

Luxury is enhanced by the removal of extraneous ‘noise’ and the enhancement of desirable ‘sound’ – a fine distinction but one that helps the new car deliver an aural experience like no other. Improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) characteristics are derived from the likes of the new bonnet lining and revised windscreen cowl.

Flexibility comes in the form of four seats – the rearmost two capable of accommodating adults in a uniquely sporting setting – while at the touch of a button the individual back seats fold down to almost triple the Aston Martin’s load space.

Options to further enhance the luxurious look and feel of the Rapide S include, subject to market, a reversing camera and twin screen rear seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, remote control and six-disc DVD changer.

Those seeking the ultimate in luxury and personalisation can also consider the ‘Q by Aston Martin’ service which offers uniquely-tailored options for individualisation. The Q service focuses on fashioning colour and materials with limitless boundaries precisely to customer choice and specification, enabling owners to give free rein to the creativity and indulge their desire for bespoke luxury.

The new Aston Martin Rapide S will be available to order through the brand’s 146 dealers worldwide next month with prices confirmed closer to the on-sale date.

(Aston Martin Press Release)

2014 Mercedes Benz E 63 AMG S Model Sedan and Wagon US Version

The E63 AMG line for 2014 features a new S-Model with 577 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque as well as a newly developed performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine continues to be a pinnacle of efficiency – an unusual combination of high performance and high fuel mileage that remains unrivaled worldwide in its market segment.

Mercedes-AMG continues to champion performance, dynamic purpose and efficiency: Alongside the successful SUVs – ML63 AMG, GL63 AMG and G63 AMG – five unique models in the E-Class and CLS-Class lines are now equipped with a standard high-performance AMG 4MATIC system, including other E 63 AMG models, now with 550 horsepower and 531 lb.-ft. of torque. With this step, Mercedes-AMG is premiering high-performance passenger cars with an all-wheeldrive system geared to sporty driving.

With the introduction of these new, custom-tailored models, Mercedes-AMG offers its customers more individuality than before. The exclusive S-Models are even more appealing than the popular AMG Performance packages they replace. And, S-Models are a cornerstone of the AMG product philosophy; more AMG high-performance vehicles will be available as S-Models in the future. A significant price/value increase also adds to their appeal – E63 AMG customers now enjoy more power and improved handling, as well as a more extensive package of standard equipment.

In addition to the highly successful sport utility vehicles – ML63 AMG, GL63 AMG, and G63 AMG– Mercedes-AMG now offers the E 63 AMG, CLS 63 AMG and CLA45 AMG passenger car lines with performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

	E63 AMG 4MATIC Sedan	E63 AMG S 4MATIC Sedan / Wagon
Displacement	5,461 cc	5,461 cc
Horsepower	550 at 5,250 - 5,750 rpm	577 at 5,500 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	531 at 1,750 - 5,000 rpm	590 at 2,000 - 4,500 rpm
Acceleration 0 – 60 mph	3.6 seconds	3.5 seconds (Wagon: 3.6 seconds)
Top speed (electronically limited)	155 mph	186 mph

With 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.5 seconds, the E63 AMG S-Model 4MATIC is clearly at the top of its competitive line-up. In addition to its increased power, the special edge of the S-Model can also be attributed in no small part to performance-oriented all-wheel drive with a 33 : 67 front-rear power distribution. Ideal traction during acceleration minimizes wheel slip, and its electronically limited top speed stands at 186 mph.

On the new S-Model, the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine produces 577 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque, an increase of 27 hp over the optional AMG Performance Package that was previously available. This enhanced performance results from adapted engine electronics and increased turbo boost pressure, from 0.9 to 1.0 bar (with 550 hp and 531 lb.-ft. of torque, the normal E63 AMG model also boasts an increase of 32 hp over its predecessor). Despite added power and enhanced performance, all models offer high fuel mileage and low exhaust emissions. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine remains the most efficient high-performance V8 engine in production.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission

Custom-tailored settings are among the many strengths of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission. Four drive programs, "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual), provide each driver with a personal setup.

In "C" mode, gearshifts are smooth and comfortable. The ECO start/stop feature is active, turning off the V8 engine when the car is at a standstill, and the car generally starts in second gear. In the "S", "S+" and "M" modes, the engine and transmission are noticeably more agile, and the ECO start/stop function is off. Perfectly tailored to a sporty driving style, momentary suppression of ignition and injection during full-throttle shifts results in even faster gearshifts that sound great, too. Automatic rev-matching during downshifts and RACE START are also among the standard features of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission.

Performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system for maximum dynamics

Performance-oriented all-wheel-drive for maximum excitement

The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive distributes engine torque at a ratio of 33 : 67 between the front and rear wheels. This rear-biased torque split provides for superlative driving fun and handling. The 3-stage ESP® has been tailored specifically to the full-time, all-wheel drive system. In "SPORT Handling" mode, the Torque Vectoring Brake performs selective braking on individual wheels for outstanding agility. Briefly braking the inside rear wheel provides impressively neutral steering response during turn-in.

The heart of the AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is a transfer case with an additional power take-off to the front wheels. Neatly integrated into the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed sports transmission, the transfer case takes up virtually no extra space. Torque is transferred from the power take-off via a propeller shaft to the front differential, and power goes to the left front wheel via an intermediate shaft that passes through a sealed duct in the engine oil pan. This compact design results in relatively low extra weight for the allwheel- drive system – only 155 lbs. A multi-plate clutch with a locking force of 37 lb.-ft. helps modulate the transfer of torque to all four wheels when needed.

E63 AMG S-Model with limited-slip rear differential

Mercedes-AMG goes a step further on the E63 AMG S-Model with a standard limited-slip differential that’s installed within the rear final drive. This hightech package increases traction even further, providing even better vehicle dynamics and more driving fun, especially on the racetrack.

All E63 AMG models feature the AMG Adaptive Sports Suspension which features an electronically controlled damping system. Pressing a button marked with a shock absorber symbol in the AMG DRIVE UNIT is sufficient to switch the electronics from "Comfort" to "Sport" or "Sport Plus." The front wheels use a steel-spring suspension system, while the rear axle is fitted with a load-leveling air suspension system.

The three-link front suspension has been further optimized on the S-Model and the normal E63 AMG with all-wheel drive. Newly developed aluminum control arms enhance grip and agility as well as neutral steering during fast cornering. More performance-oriented elastokinematics are exclusive to the S-Model, offering the driver more neutral handling and even better feedback and wheel grip at the critical limits. Wider front track (0.9 inches or 2.4 cm) provides greater stability at higher cornering speeds and improved road feel. Increased negative camber on all wheels also helps boost cornering performance.

AMG’s electromechanical speed-sensitive steering complements the vehicle set-up. A rack-and-pinion steering ratio of 14:1 ensures agile handling in curves, and its variable power assist changes depending on the selected suspension mode.

The high-performance S-Model features exclusive 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted titanium gray with a high-sheen rim flange, while the normal E63 AMG is fitted with silver 10-spoke light-alloy wheels. Both models are equipped with 255 / 35 tires mounted on 9 x 19-inch wheels at the front, while 9.5 x 19 rear wheels carry 285 / 30 tires.

Optional AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system

The E63 AMG is equipped with an extremely powerful AMG high-performance braking system befitting its status as an AMG automobile. The front and rear axles sport ventilated and perforated brake discs measuring an ample 360 millimeters in diameter. The highly stressed and strained discs on the front axle feature composite technology which has been tried and tested in motorsport. Six-piston front calipers painted silver with white AMG lettering and four-piston calipers in the rear ensure instant, fade-resistant deceleration and the shortest stopping distances. Red-painted brake calipers distinguish the S-Model.

The E63 AMG is equipped with a high-performance AMG braking system that features 14.2-inch ventilated and perforated brake discs on the front and rear wheels. The front discs, which get especially hot, feature AMG’s compound disc technology that has been extensively tested in the field of motorsport. On the normal E63 AMG, brake calipers with a grey finish and white AMG lettering incorporate six pistons up front and four pistons at the rear, for quick, fade-resistant braking and short stopping distances.

An AMG ceramic composite brake system is exclusively available for the S-Model as an option – recognizable by even larger 15.8 inches brake discs with an "AMG Carbon Ceramic" logo on bronze metallic calipers. The incredible hardness of ceramic brake discs provide greater resistance to extreme heat and ensure longer service life. This ceramic system is also about 40 percent lighter, reducing unsprung mass, which in turn enhances handling, agility and ride comfort.

Unmistakable design with even more dynamic purpose and exclusivity

The E63 AMG also looks more dynamic than its predecessor. The new AMG design philosophy is apparent even at first glance. The "twin blade" radiator grille and the "A-wing" in the AMG front apron dominate its exclusive appearance. The new "A-wing" is a three-dimensional air deflector that spans the entire width of the AMG front apron, presenting a stylized "A" that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles. The body-color "A-wing" with a trim strip in silver chrome provides a backdrop for three large cooling air intake openings. On the side air intakes, black flics ensure an ideal inflow of air into the cooling system, while at the bottom, a body-color front splitter helps to reduce lift.

Convex and concave surfaces sculpturally join the new front end of the E63 AMG to the distinctive flared fenders, where "V8 BITURBO" lettering hints at what’s under the front hood. At the rear of the car, side air outlets, black mesh and the two chrome-plated dual tailpipes of the AMG sport exhaust system emphasize the width of the vehicle. A black diffuser insert with pronounced fins lends the rear of the E 63 AMG a strong touch of racetrack ambiance.

S-Model with subtly different design features

The E63 AMG S-Model can be indentified by red brake calipers and the AMG logo on the trunk lid that sports an "S" in contrasting black. Accented by silver seat belts, the standard black premium nappa leather interior of the S-Model features contrasting gray stitching on the AMG sports seats, center door panels, door arm rests, steering wheel and center console. The rim of the AMG Performance steering wheel in black Premium leather boasts grip areas in Alcantara® and is flattened at the top and bottom. In the S-Model, the front head restraints of the AMG sports seats feature the AMG crest embossed directly into the premium leather. The AMG instrument cluster also reveals an "S AMG" logo on the speedometer and red accents on the dials. Illuminated AMG door sill panels with white backlighting complete the range of equipment and appointments exclusive to the S-Model.

"Intelligent drive" with new assistance systems

What started with the PRE-SAFE® system and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS has resulted in a new dimension of driving at Mercedes-Benz: comfort and safety merge into one environment called "Intelligent Drive." In the EClass, a host of new or optimized systems celebrate their world premiere, making driving more comfortable and safer.

Along with new, state-of-the-art sensors and networked electronics, Mercedes- Benz has made a major step forward with the introduction of a stereo multipurpose camera, positioned behind the windshield near the rear-view mirror. Featuring two "camera eyes" set at an angle of 45 degrees with an overall range of 500 meters, the new camera produces a 3D view of the 50 yards in front of the vehicle. Smart electronics continually analyze these 3D images to identify and classify (both spatially and in terms of movement) vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing, as well as pedestrians and a variety of traffic signs and road markings within a wide field of vision.

At the same time as the stereo multipurpose camera, Mercedes-Benz is also introducing improved versions of the multistage radar sensor system. The EClass sedans and wagons come standard-equipped with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with Brake Assist that helps to reduce the risk of a rear-end collision.

Also standard is ATTENTION ASSIST, which is now able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, and can inform drivers about their level of fatigue and driving time since the last break. It also offers an adjustable sensitivity level.

In addition, a number of assistance systems which are either new or now feature significantly extended functions are available as options. The following is an overview of these innovations:

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist can help the driver keep the vehicle centered in its lane and can practically drive itself in stop-andgo traffic.
For the first time, the Brake Assist system with Junction Assist is able to detect crossing traffic and pedestrians, and boost the braking power applied by the driver.
The PRE-SAFE® Brake can detect pedestrians and initiate automatic braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 30 mph.
PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognize an imminent rear-end collision and trigger occupant protection measures to reduce the load on the occupants. At a standstill, it can also apply the vehicles brakes in the event of a rear-end collision to prevent secondary accidents.
Active Lane Keeping Assist now can detect when the adjacent lane is not clear, including when it is occupied by oncoming traffic. If a collision is imminent, the system can prevent the vehicle from leaving its lane unintentionally by applying the brakes on one side, even if the lane marking is not a solid line. In this way, it complements Active Blind Spot Assist.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS can automatically mask out other vehicles in the headlights cone of light, which allows the high-beam headlights to stay on without dazzling traffic.
Active Parking Assist enables automatic parking with active steering and braking in both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces.
A Surround View 360-degree camera system covers all four sides of the vehicle, enabling a virtual birds-eye perspective – an overhead view of the entire vehicle and its surroundings. Dynamic guide lines help when entering and leaving parking spaces and during maneuvering.

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

A highlight among the optional equipment for the E63 AMG models is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system. Mercedes-Benz and AMG have created a high-end sound system in conjunction with renowned Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen.

Capable of Dolby Digital 5.1 playback, the audio system provides an exclusive music experience with unparalleled sound, not only because of its 1,200-watt amplifier and 14 high-end speakers with neodymium drivers, but also due to the distribution of music signals that are controlled by an integrated digital sound processor (DSP).

The DSP provides the option of selecting a special B&O sound menu on the COMAND system. In True Image™ mode, individual sound settings for the front, center and rear can be selected. The effect: a realistic sound experience at the selected listening position. The "Sound Mode" menu also has various preset sound modes that allow choices between a high-end "Reference" studio sound and surround sound. While "Reference" puts the focus on reproducing the artists sound, the special surround sound mode delivers a spacious sound experience. In particular, live recordings or concertos result in a unique panoramic sound within the vehicle without altering the natural sound of the recording.

Illuminated 50-watt tweeters with acoustic lens technology, arranged in the mirror triangle, add special highlights, while high-end speaker covers in silver chrome with Bang & Olufsen logos also identify this exceptional high-end surround sound system.

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