Aston Martin has introduced its most powerful and driver-focused Vantage in 74 years, redefining the iconic nameplate with a striking new design and a formidable V8 engine. Rooted in a rich history dating back to 1950, when the Vantage badge first appeared as an uprated DB2 variant, the latest iteration arrives as a statement of the brand’s dominance in motorsport, including Formula 1, GT racing, and an upcoming 2025 Le Mans entry with the Valkyrie AMR.
A Bold Evolution in Design
The new Vantage has shed its previous understated demeanor in favor of an aggressive yet refined aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from the One-77 supercar, its muscular stance is complemented by a massive grille, almond-shaped LED headlamps, and an aerodynamically sculpted body that tapers elegantly toward the rear.
Sitting on 21-inch Michelin Pilot S tires, the car exudes a race-ready presence, further emphasized by strategically placed air ducts, vents, and a carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser. From any angle, the Vantage is a visual masterpiece, embodying Aston Martin’s commitment to blending luxury with high-performance engineering.
Inside, the cabin continues this theme, offering a sophisticated dark-themed interior with black-blue color accents, carbon fiber trims, and precisely designed air vents. The chunky three-spoke steering wheel sits in front of a customizable digital gauge cluster, while a 10.25-inch touchscreen and Panamera-style center console house an array of controls for powertrain and chassis adjustments. While the materials and craftsmanship impress, some minor drawbacks—such as creaky plastics and finicky mirror controls—remind drivers that even the finest automobiles have their quirks.
Unleashing the Power Within
Under the hood, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 has been heavily revised, producing a staggering 665 PS and 800 Nm of torque—a significant increase of 155 PS and 115 Nm over its predecessor. Enhanced cooling, larger turbochargers, and modified cam profiles contribute to this power boost, delivering blistering acceleration.
The Vantage launches from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, providing an exhilarating experience akin to piloting a SpaceX rocket. While the automatic transmission can be slightly hesitant, using the paddle shifters ensures seamless gear changes. The car’s perfect 50:50 weight distribution, Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, and an E-diff enable razor-sharp handling, making it a formidable presence on both road and track.
Technology and Functionality
Aston Martin’s new infotainment system, built in-house, pairs with a 1,170W, 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system for an immersive audio experience. A 360-degree camera enhances visibility, while features like seat cooling, although underwhelming, contribute to overall comfort. The 346-liter boot space remains practical, but interior storage is minimal.
Final Verdict
With its stunning design, exhilarating performance, and precise handling, the new Vantage is no longer just Aston Martin’s “baby” sports car—it’s a powerhouse built to thrill. While minor flaws persist, they do little to overshadow the Vantage’s breathtaking capabilities. Whether as a collector’s dream or a high-performance daily driver, this latest Aston Martin proves that beauty and brawn can indeed coexist.
