Aston Martin Vantage RS news - RS kicker - 2007

Well, we didn't see this one coming. Last night, Aston Martin invited 700 VIP guests to its Gaydon HQ for the opening of its new design centre and then casually pulled the covers off this 600bhp Vantage RS concept.

Engineers have shoehorned a modified version of the 6.0-litre V12 from the DBRS9 production class racer into the Vantage to create Aston's fastest-accelerating road car ever - capable of reaching 62mph in four seconds and 100mph in just 8.5.

Part of the key to achieving those stats is an intensive weight-loss programme. Like the recent DBS, the RS features a moulded carbon-fibre bonnet and bootlid, which helps to bring the new car in at close to 1,500kg. That's less than the standard V8, despite carrying the heavier V12.

Even more impressive - unless you're a mechanic - is how far back the engine is positioned. It's buried right at the rear of the bay to achieve a near-perfect 51/49 weight distribution.

Other motorsport-inspired kit includes carbon-ceramic brakes, that awesome louvred bonnet and a few metres of ducting to keep things cool. There's also a carbon front splitter and a deployable spoiler on the back that pops up at speed for added downforce.

We pressed Aston boss Dr Ulrich Bez on whether the RS will make production, but he wasn't yet ready to commit: "We'll listen to feedback on this and if there's sufficient demand, then we'll seriously consider a low volume production."

And if you wondering about the price, Dr Bez simply added that "it would reflect the exclusivity of the car". That should push it past DB9 territory, then.

We'll have full details of the Vantage RS in the upcoming issue of Top Gear magazine, on sale December 28