Vantage
Thrill. Driven.
The Vantage evokes the cool nature of a classic coupe but with the very latest technology, performance and electronic systems.
Need to know
1
The Vantage is the latest revival of a badge worn by some of Aston Martin’s most famous models, stretching back seven decades to the first high-output version of the DB2. Other famous wearers of the badge include the twin-supercharged V600 Le Mans and the extremely popular V8 Vantage
2
The Vantage was the first Aston Martin to utilise a complex Electronic Rear Differential or E-Diff. Linking the car’s differential to the onboard electronic stability control system means that it can react in milliseconds, meaning superb composure at high speeds but with confidence-inspiring handling around the bends
3
Though the Vantage shares a version of the aluminium bonded chassis that you’ll find on the DB11, 70 per cent of the parts have been changed completely for the Vantage. Plus, it wears special Pirelli P Zero tyres that have been designed specifically for this baby Aston Martin
The Vantage hits the scene with the weight from decades of the very best sports cars weighing on its shoulders. However, it has more than lived up to the occasion, with drama, excitement and classic British craftsmanship all tied together in one streamlined and attractive package. Not only does it deliver on a dynamic front, but it’ll also manage those longer cross-country journeys with ease. Its overall look and feel put it head and shoulders above the rest, making it one of the must-have sports cars on sale today.
Design
The design of the new Aston Martin Vantage incorporates some classic styling touches that you’d expect from this esteemed British manufacturer, but with several more modern aspects. With short front and rear overhangs, the look of the Vantage has a muscle car-like feel to this, while the slim lights at the front and back tie it with other models within the Aston Martin range.
If you look closely, you’ll see the side ‘gills’ which have been made flush into the body surface. They’re there to allow air pressure to be released from the front wheel arches and tie in with the Vantage’s aerodynamic approach to styling. In fact, the Vantage produces quite a lot of downforce, which helps it to stick to the road when cornering at greater speeds.
It’s fair to say that Aston Martin has produced some of the most beautiful cars of all time, so it had quite the task on its hands when asked to create something eye-catching with the new Vantage. However, with its sleek, dynamic appearance, it looks like Aston was more than up to the challenge.
Plus, thanks to the extensive personalisation options available with the Vantage, there’s the option to tailor the look of this car to your needs. In fact, there are nearly 60 exterior shades to choose from to begin with and all manner of alloy wheel designs, grille colours and gloss black trim packages are all there to add on.
Tech
The Vantage was able to benefit from some of Aston Martin’s latest technology, which gives its cabin a particularly futuristic feel. Given the Aston Martin Vantage’s price, you get some beneficial technology including an eight-inch infotainment screen which houses all of your navigation, media and phone functions. It’s all controlled by a rotary dial and touchpad located close to those aforementioned transmission buttons, which allows you to quickly and easily navigate through the different menus and functions. It’s via this screen that you’ll
There’s also a full Aston Martin audio system so you can truly enjoy your favourite tracks when behind the wheel. And since we’re on the subject of the wheel, there are several shortcut buttons located on the steering wheel itself, such as those to pick up or cancel a call, or even navigate through certain menus.
Engines & Performance
At the very heart of the Aston Martin Vantage sits a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine which has been developed by Mercedes-AMG. Now while the Vantage is also offered with a V12 powertrain, this V8 setup is a core offering on Aston Martin’s smallest model. All models are rear-wheel-drive as standard, with power sent through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Vantage also utilises a number of electronic systems that allow the driver to extract the very best from the car. Highlights include dynamic steering control and dynamic torque vectoring, which both work to keep the vehicle under control even when nearing the limit.
Statistics
As you might imagine from a car with 503bhp and 685Nm of torque, the Aston Martin Vantage is accompanied by some impressive performance figures. In fact, it’ll manage the 0-60mph sprint in just 3.5 seconds and can carry onwards to a top speed of 195mph. There’s the option to allow the transmission to do the work, or take drivers can take control via the steering wheel-mounted paddles for maximum involvement.
Aston Martin also worked hard to make the engine in the Vantage as efficient as possible, which is why its CO2 emissions of 245g/km remain respectable. Plus, it should manage up to 26.8mpg on the combined cycle.
0-60 mph
3.5 seconds
Top speed
195mph
CO2 emissions
245g/km
Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. Figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including factory-fitted options, accessories fitted (post registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Further information about the test used to establish fuel consumption and CO2 figures can be found at www.astonmartin.com