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The Aston Martin Rapide edges ever closer to production as a new image has just been released by the now-independent automaker. As was obvious from all the spy photos seen over this past year, Aston has retained much of the 2006 concept's original look. However, there are some details that have changed. Judging from this image, it appears that the sedan's shoulder now has a sharper crease than the original. A convex ridge now extends back from the front fender vents into the leading edge of the back doors.

One of the most obvious competitors to the Rapide is the new Porsche Panamera, and while the two cars share much in concept, they have diverged greatly in styling. Porsche went for function over form, ensuring that adult-sized rear passengers can fit comfortably and see out of the car. The sweeping greenhouse of the Aston looks like it might leave a tighter, more claustrophobic rear compartment. Also, Porsche calls the Panamera a gran turismo while Aston calls the Rapide a four-door sports car, an appellation far more fitting here than on a Nissan Maxima.

The 470-hp V12-powered Rapide will be built at a Magna Steyr factory in Graz, Austria starting late in 2009.

[Source: Aston Martin]