Aston Martin Rapide / Vantage / DB9 center console
center consoles for the Rapide, Vantage, and DB9 are iconic for their “waterfall” design, but they evolved significantly through three distinct generations. Because these cars share the VH (Vertical/Horizontal) platform, many interior components look similar but are not always interchangeable due to electronic and physical mounting changes.
1. The Three Generations of the “Waterfall”
| Generation | Years (Approx.) | Key Features | Infotainment |
| Gen 1 | 2004–2008 | Plastic buttons, Volvo-sourced pop-up Nav, “Emotion Control Unit” (Crystal Key) introduced later. | AMi I |
| Gen 2 | 2009–2015 | Harder “Piano Black” or Graphite finishes, refined buttons, Garmin-based Navigation. | AMi II |
| Gen 3 | 2016–2018 | “Haptic” touch-sensitive glass panel (borrowed from the Vanquish), no physical buttons for major functions. | AMi III |
2. The Glass Button Upgrade
One of the most popular modifications for owners of earlier models is replacing the standard plastic buttons (which can feel “sticky” over time) with Glass Switches.
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Compatibility: Official kits exist for the Rapide and DB9 (up to 2012/13).
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Kit Includes: Switches for Transmission (P, R, N, D), Sport Mode, Glass Fog Lights, and DSC.
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Cost: Expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,000 for a full genuine set.
3. The “Ski Slope” (Center Trim)
The main trim piece surrounding the radio and climate controls is colloquially called the “Ski Slope.”
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Materials: Available in Walnut, Mahogany, Bamboo, Piano Black, Alloy, or Carbon Fiber.
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Common Issue: The “Ski Slope” on early DB9s and Vantages is prone to hairline cracks if made of wood, or “bubbling” if the leather/adhesive underneath fails in hot climates.
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Rapide Difference: While the Vantage and DB9 share many “Ski Slope” dimensions, the Rapide center console extends much further back into the rear cabin to provide controls for the rear passengers.
4. Modernizing the Tech (Apple CarPlay)
The biggest pain point for these consoles is the dated infotainment.
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2017+ Models: If the car has the AMi III system (identifiable by the haptic touch console), it usually supports Apple CarPlay natively.
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Pre-2017 Models: You can install “CarPlay Integration” kits (like those from Aston Installations or Redpants) that use the existing screen but add modern smartphone connectivity. This often requires a hidden “switch” or a long-press of the “Back” button on the console to activate.
Comparison Note: Vantage vs. DB9/Rapide
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Vantage: Usually has a more “driver-focused” (shorter) console. Manual versions have a traditional gear lever, while Sportshift/Automatic versions have the buttons at the very top of the waterfall.
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DB9/Rapide: Almost exclusively feature the P-R-N-D buttons flanking the crystal key slot at the top center.
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