Shadow is a smooth operator
the whole concept of a four-door sports car, but Aston Martin has persisted, and the Shadow edition is the latest version of the model.
Over the years, the model has been revised and improved, and a new eight-speed automatic transmission was introduced in 2015.
However the Rapide S is now powered by the AM29 V12 engine, which provides more than 18 per cent more power than the firstgeneration Rapide engine.
The eight-speed transmission, which occupies a huge tunnel through the centre of the cabin, provides almost imperceptible gear changes as the immense power is harnessed and the Rapide speeds off from standstill.
The eight gears are produced by four gear sets and five shift elements which, Aston Martin says, means they are always operating at their optimum level.
Certainly on board the Rapide, it feels like the car is delivering rapid and smooth acceleration. Aston Martin says the eight gears can shift in just 130 milliseconds.
The gears are engaged by pressing buttons in the centre of the dashboard, something that takes time to get used to. However the gearbox works incredibly quickly and smoothly once you remember where the buttons are. Later Aston Martins are adopting more conventional gear shift arrangements.
The car delivers an exceptionally comfortable ride, although the ride is firm when sports mode is engaged.
Inside the Rapide, the look and feel is luxurious, with comfortable leather seating and high-quality materials throughout the cabin.
Because of the sharp shape of the Rapide, those seeking a conventional limousine should look elsewhere. It is low-slung and sleek.
Inside there are four virtual pods, with the generous seats taking up virtually every centimetre of space between the door and the transmission tunnel.
However, over almost three hours, our rear-seat passenger found the ride comfortable, even though the route involved tight corners tackled at speed.
The sensation of the V12 accelerating from the traffic lights is great, while the Rapide has such a low centre of gravity that it corners with ease.
The steering is direct with plenty of feel, and there are no problems transferring the immense power onto the ground.
Aston Martin says its latest version of the Rapide, the Shadow, combines sensatinal sports car performance and supreme refinement in one compelling form.
After spending almost three hours in the car, it is difficult to argue with that assessment.