The new Aston Martin Rapide is the "only four door [hyphenate] sports car in the world", it has been claimed.

This is the opinion of the company's CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez, who told car review website motorauthority.com that there is no compromise for motorists looking for performance twinned with luxury.

The 6.0-litre V12 engine vehicle is Aston's first attempt at a four-door model and Dr Bez explained the premise behind its design.

"Our car is developed out of a sports car … without a compromise of making space," he told the website.

"We see our car as the most exclusive, the most beautiful four-door luxury car in the world."

Aston Martin car hire fans will be pleased to know that it has not lost any of the company's sporting pedigree, taking motorists from zero to 62mph in 5.1 seconds, while also boasting a top speed of 188mph.

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Posted by Jenny Denham