Based on the maker"s...

Based on the maker"s advanced VH (Vertical Horizontal) aluminium chassis, the newcomer shares its styling, as well as much of its engineering, with the DB9 Coupé. The stretched wheelbase accommodates an additional set of doors, incorporating the DB9"s hidden handles.

In the rear, there are two leather-trimmed seats and a slightly taller, extended boot. Yet this doesn"t interfere with the Aston"s flowing shape - so not only does the Rapide look well proportioned, it"s every bit as sporty as the coupé, too.

While it"s officially still a concept, the rear-wheel-drive machine is aimed at a fast-growing class of luxury saloons, which includes the Bentley Continental Flying Spur and Maserati Quattroporte. Expected to be produced in limited numbers, it will swell Aston"s small line-up of cars from three to four models.

There"s still no official word on what"s under the bonnet or the level of performance likely, but power is expected to come from the manufacturer"s 6.0-litre V12, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Due to the versatility of the chassis, it"s possible that a V8 unit could also be offered, together with a six-speed manual box. The V12-engined machine could hit a maximum speed of around 180mph, and complete the sprint from 0-60mph in only five seconds.

However, top brass at Aston are remaining tight-lipped on the subject. They issued a short statement to accompany the picture, only saying: "The Aston Martin Rapide, a four-seat high-performance coupé, illustrates the flexibility of the unique VH architecture."