Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (330 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2019
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding the vehicle's aesthetics, sound, and driving character, with it being described as "gorgeous," "beautiful," and "exhilarating." It is widely appreciated for its subtle, classy beauty and distinctive V12 exhaust note.
5 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 1 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentHigh and unpredictable maintenance costs
- Very frequentGeneral reliability concerns, requiring specialized care
- RecurrentUnreliable electronics and strange electrical issues
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCramped rear seat space for adults
- IsolatedLimited dealer/service network impacting convenience
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. The AMR performance variant is mentioned, but no comparative feedback on different model years (e.g., pre-facelift vs. post-facelift, Rapide S) is present in the data.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Porsche Panamera, Mercedes-Benz CLS, Lexus LC500, Bentley Flying Spur and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding the vehicle's aesthetics, sound, and driving character, with it being described as "gorgeous," "beautiful," and "exhilarating." It is widely appreciated for its subtle, classy beauty and distinctive V12 exhaust note. As a used vehicle, it is frequently cited as a significant value proposition, with specific mentions of examples available for approximately $60,000 USD, representing an "ultra-luxury bargain." However, this positive ownership sentiment is heavily caveated with widespread acknowledgment of high maintenance costs, unpredictable reliability, and the necessity for specialized care. The consensus indicates deep satisfaction for enthusiasts who value emotional appeal and are prepared for the financial and practical realities of ownership, but it is not considered a carefree daily driver.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more emotionally engaging and aesthetically distinctive four-door grand tourer compared to its German rivals. It is noted for offering a more "raw" and engaging driving experience with a naturally aspirated V12, in contrast to the more technologically advanced but less characterful turbocharged offerings from Porsche and Mercedes. Compared to the Lexus LC500, it is seen as more subtle and classy, with a superior exhaust note, though the Lexus is acknowledged for superior modern luxury and reliability. It is generally considered less practical for rear-seat passengers than a traditional luxury limousine like the S-Class or a Porsche Panamera, with its rear seats described as cramped for adults. Its value depreciation places it in a unique position as an accessible entry into V12 grand touring.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available on specific recommended configurations (e.g., color, interior, options). One data point suggests the V12 engine is preferred, with a note that a V8 variant was never offered, which some see as a missed competitive opportunity.
General recommendations
Suitable for enthusiasts who prioritize emotional appeal, V12 character, and distinctive styling over practicality and low running costs. Strongly recommended to establish a relationship with a specialist independent mechanic or dealer for servicing to mitigate costs. Not recommended as a primary daily driver without a high tolerance for potential downtime and expense. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified specialist is considered essential. Buyers should budget significantly for ongoing maintenance, including consumables like tires and spark plugs. The vehicle is seen as offering tremendous value on the used market for those who understand and accept the associated ownership costs.
Remarks
The provided data consists largely of observational posts (photos) and comparative discussions rather than detailed, long-term ownership testimonials. The most substantive reliability and cost insights come from a single comment by a former technician and an owner's brief experience. The reported value depreciation is a major theme, making the Rapide a notable case study in depreciated exotic luxury. The cancellation of the electric Rapide E variant is noted but not discussed by owners. Analysis based on approximately 8 substantive owner discussions and numerous observational posts.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 1 | 4 | fuel system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices4 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2012 · latches/locks/linkagescampaign 15V846000
Aston Martin Lagonda of North America (Aston Martin) is recalling certain model year 2010-2015 DB9, 2010-2012 DBS, 2010-2016 V8 Vantage, 2012 Virage, 2010-2016 Rapide, 2014-2016 Vanquish, 2011-2016 V12 Vantage, and 2012-2013 V12 Zagato vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with interior door unlocking mechanisms that may not function when the vehicle has been locked from the outside. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."
2012 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 17V796000
Aston Martin The Americas (Aston Martin) is recalling certain 2009-2016 DB9, 2009-2012 DBS, 2010-2015 Rapide, 2012 Virage, and 2014 Vanquish vehicles equipped with a 6-Speed Touchtronic II Automatic Transmission. A communication error between the Engine Control Module (ECM) and the Transmission Control Module (TCM) can cause the transmission park pawl to not engage.
2012 · vehicle speed control:accelerator pedalcampaign 14V010000
Aston Martin Lagonda of North America (Aston Martin) is recalling certain model year 2008-2014 DB9 and V8 Vantage, 2009-2012 DBS, 2010-2012 Rapide, 2014 Rapide S, 2011-2012 V12 Vantage, 2011-2014 V8 Vantage S and 2012 Virage vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the accelerator pedal arm may break.
2012 · vehicle speed control:accelerator pedalcampaign 13V228000
Aston Martin is recalling certain model year DB9, Virage, V8 Vantage, V12 Vantage, and Rapide vehicles manufactured from May 14, 2012, through April 10, 2013. Due to a manufacturing error, the throttle pedal arm may break.
Specifications
6.0 V12 Touchtronic (UK & EU)
5.9L 12-cylinder · 603 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2018–2020