Aston Martin Vantage Power and Speed
Aston Martin has unveiled the new Vantage, the newest member of a legendary lineage. It is the most driver-focused and quickest Vantage in the 74-year history of the renowned moniker. The ultimate Aston Martin sports vehicle is designed to provide the greatest amount of excitement with the highest level of assurance.
Vantage is a modern take on a design that highlights the attributes that have captivated enthusiasts for years but are becoming more and more elusive in today’s sports car market. Vantage therefore represents the disenfranchised admirers of incredible power, deft handling, and the ideal harmony of a precisely calibrated front-engine, rear-wheel drive chassis.
The announcement of a new Vantage came after the successful launch of the highly regarded DB12 Coupe and Volante last year. Vantage, which further fortifies Aston Martin’s upcoming generation of sports vehicles, confirms the brand’s leadership positions in the ultra-luxury, performance sports car market in addition to the world’s top championship motorsports and the ultra-luxury sporting GT, SUV, and hypercar arenas.
The Vantage moniker was originally applied to an improved engine package for the race-tested DB2 in 1950, beginning an incredible pedigree that the current generation of Vantage maintains. The first time Vantage was used as a model name was in 1964, when the DB5 was rebranded as the Vantage, and it became the new flagship of the lineup. Beginning with the introduction of a stand-alone Vantage model in the early 1970s, the moniker has become more and more significant in Aston Martin’s model lineup. Vantage embraces the sports attributes that have made this evocative brand so well-known, traits that are synonymous with impeccable flair, remarkable performances, and unique character.
The most exciting era in Aston Martin’s 111-year history is reflected in this new Vantage. With the recent announcement of Aston Martin’s pursuit of an outright victory in the Le Mans 24 Hours race with the Valkyrie AMR in 2025, the racer is expected to be a formidable force in the 2023 Formula One® season, a dominant force in international GT racing, and a leading contender in the World Endurance Championship.
Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Amedeo Felisa, said: “As we enter a period of pivotal change in the world of high-performance cars it is essential to remain true to those qualities upon which a legendary marque has been built. Any car bearing the Vantage name has much to live-up to, which is why this newest model makes an unwavering commitment to high-performance in its purest and most explicit form. Class-leading power and speed establish its credentials, but it is through expert application of the latest technologies to the Vantage’s perfectly balanced front-engine rear-drive chassis that we have created a sports car with addictive capability. Together with assertive styling, all-new interior, and state-of-the-art infotainment, Vantage is world-class in every respect.”
With its hand-built, extensively modified 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine, the new Vantage is the quickest vehicle to carry the marque in its history. It also makes the largest-ever boost in power and torque compared to the model it replaces, with peaks of 665 PS and an incredible 800 Nm of torque; those improvements translate into gains of 30% and 15%, respectively.
The impressive new figures and an engine with a sharper, more visceral, and more vocal character have been achieved by Aston Martin engineers through extensive tuning, the adoption of modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling.
This is sufficient to push the two-seater sports vehicle to a peak speed of 202 mph and accelerate it from a standstill to 60 mph in only 3.4 seconds when paired with an 8-speed ZF automated gearbox. In order to maximise response and enjoyment, the gearbox shift calibration and the shortened Final Drive Ratio (3.083:1) have both been refined. The former offers punchier in-gear acceleration, while the latter lowers shift speeds and provides various shift characteristics to fit each of the Vantage’s dynamic modes.
A new Launch Control technology has made standing start acceleration even better. When activated by the driver, Launch Control, which is fully integrated with the engine, gearbox, and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), enables the vehicle to apply as much torque as circumstances permit. It does this by utilising the E-Diff, ESP slip control, and engine torque management to maintain the ideal range of wheel slip during the launch. With the Adjustable Traction Control (ATC) system, the driver can also fine-tune the exact amount of slip they want during the launch. They have the option of adjusting the Launch Control System’s permitted amount of controlled wheelspin or setting the ATC to Traction Control (TC) Off, which gives them full throttle control.
Modern suspension, a precisely balanced 50:50 weight distribution, and a highly developed aluminium frame form the basis for an unparalleled driving experience. Constructed with Aston Martin’s most recent generation of bonded aluminium construction, the Vantage has an improved body structure with extra underbody strengthening components for higher overall torsional stiffness, resulting in more focused and engaging performance.
Vantage’s additional lateral stiffening between the rear suspension towers provides a 29% improvement in rigidity under cornering stress. The combined increases in front and rear mounting rigidity for the dampers, along with changes to the front and rear undertrays for increased lateral stiffness, result in noticeable improvements in handling balance, accuracy, and driver input, in addition to an overall improvement in refinement.
New intelligent adaptive dampers enhance this sense of connection, control, and immediateness. The Vantage’s dynamics have been fine-tuned by Aston Martin’s vehicle attributes engineers thanks to the state-of-the-art dampers, which have a 500% increase in force distribution bandwidth over previous generation hardware and a lightning-fast response time.
Vantage comes equipped with 21-inch forged alloy wheels. Three distinct designs are available: the regular Five-Spoke, the optional Multi-Spoke, and the Y-Spoke. They come in a variety of colours and finishes, including Satin Bronze, which was first seen on the DB12.
Aston Martin engineers have made the most of the Vantage’s exceptional chassis construction in conjunction with the newest electrical systems, as befits its status as the most sporty vehicle in the line, to optimise performance and provide a distinctively dynamic character. The end result is a car that welcomes genuine drivers and pushes them to push the boundaries. The goal was to achieve better agility and quicker steering response while offering more accuracy, consistency, and precise input for more confidence and connection. Although it doesn’t rely on skillful driving to provide an exciting experience, it will reward it.
The advanced vehicle dynamics control system plays a key role in the Vantage’s enhanced handling characteristics. This builds a precise picture of exactly what the car is doing and applies it to the overall management of the ESP system. It does this by combining data from several car and driver sensors, including the 6-axis accelerometer, powertrain, braking system, and E-Diff sensors. The ESP can then actively control the three fundamental components of the vehicle dynamics system—ride, handling, and steering—to maximise the vehicle’s response and handling behaviour in all weather conditions and on both roads and tracks. This is done by taking that data and comparing it to model-based Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Estimation (IVE) parameters.
An Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff) and a ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox handle the power. In contrast to a traditional LSD, it actively increases stability when used with the ESP, providing quick and accurate control for improved handling, optimal traction, and increased agility.
The newest generation of ABS control technology is used by Integrated Brake Slip Control (IBC) to optimise stopping distances and use Brake Slip Vectoring to position the vehicle for a bend entrance. In order to provide anticipatory slip control for optimal traction and Traction Slip Vectoring for the ideal amount of traction on corner departure, Integrated Traction Control (ITC) integrates management of the engine, braking, and E-Diff. Ultimately, to optimise balance and handling at the boundaries of driving dynamics, enhance dynamic characteristics for all driving types, and enable predictive activation for smoother ESP interventions, Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control (IVC) acts on the brakes, powertrain, and E-Diff.
Together with the newest generation of ESP, the E-Diff adjusts its behaviour to the type of corner. This allows the Vantage to take advantage of its incredibly sharp front-end response by rotating into tighter turns, but it also maintains composure and inspires confidence when navigating fast curves where stability is crucial.
The new ESP is tailored to work as a performance enhancer rather than a performance breaker, albeit with a clear safety feature. Adjustable Traction Control (ATC) is a brand-new feature for the Vantage and a prime illustration of this. Apart from offering Wet, On, and Track ESP modes, ATC also deactivates the yaw control function of the ESP, meaning that no off-throttle assistance is provided. However, a certain degree of traction control is retained, which the driver may adjust using the rotary switch on ATC.
Engine torque is adjusted to control slip at a level that permits driving a quick, clean lap when position 5 is chosen. It is possible to oversteer, and the driver should adjust accordingly. With the yaw control off, levels 6–8 enable the driver to increase wheel slip, which decreases on-throttle stability. Before converting to TC Off, which gives the driver total control over the vehicle using just the throttle and steering inputs, the modes let a driver hone their abilities to gradually understand the behaviour of the vehicle at high slip angles.
Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer, said “The art of creating a truly great sports car in 2024 is applying cutting-edge technology in a way that enhances and intensifies the driving experience yet does nothing to remove the driver from the process of driving. Vantage will make headlines for the huge increases in power and torque over the outgoing model, but it’s the vivid way in which it deploys such immense performance that will seduce enthusiasts and purists. With a perfectly balanced front-engined rear-wheel drive chassis aided by industry-leading Active Vehicle Dynamics, it combines outright capability with progression and exploitability. Matched by muscular styling and completed by an all-new ultra-luxury interior packed with the latest connected technology and infotainment, it is the perfect contemporary interpretation of a time-honoured legend”.
You can see right away that the next generation of Vantage will revolutionise the game. A newly revised front end with a 38% bigger recontoured veined grille aperture that offers a 29% increase in mass airflow for enhanced cooling highlights a body that stands 30mm wider and has a more muscular attitude. Additional cooling intakes positioned into the bumper on either side of the grille further improve the front-end characteristics. Meanwhile, the newly integrated splitter, which has a lower and broader stance, adds drama and improves aerodynamics by reducing lift and promoting high-speed stability. The all-new Matrix LED headlamp design with integrated DRLs, which showcase Aston Martin’s new light signature, completes this unique front-end treatment.
The recognisable Aston Martin side strake has made a comeback in the 2017 Vantage, serving as the pointed focal point of updated vents on either flank. Standard-fit 21-inch forged alloy wheels perfectly fill the wider wheel arches, creating a purposeful stance that exudes both power and composure. A broader rear bumper with side vents and bigger-diameter quad exhaust tailpipes guarantee that the Vantage appears as spectacular from the back as it does from the front. Other new features for the Vantage include frameless door mirrors and presentation door handles.
By choosing from one of three basic livery options, Vantage owners may further improve the sports nature of their vehicle. A customer can select between a Pinstripe, Lipstick, and Rear infill or a Pinstripe, Lipstick, and Rear infill. The infill is available in 21 colours.
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer, adds: “Aston Martin is blessed with many evocative model names, but none conjure excitement and dynamism like Vantage. To capture the new car’s huge uplift in power and performance we have accentuated its physique, increasing its muscularity and sharpening its sculptural form. We took some inspiration from the One-77 supercar, but we wanted Vantage to express its intent and potency more explicitly. One look and you know it packs a real punch, but there’s an elegance of form and proportion that hints at the sophistication that underpins its raw power. This balance of instant visual impact and slow-burn charisma mirrors the driving experience and perfectly captures the essence of Vantage”.
The Q by Aston Martin personalisation programme allows Vantage clients, like those of other Aston Martin automobiles, to explore countless customised and modification options. Customers who hire Q’s designers and craftspeople go on an incredible journey of customised commissioning, which may include anything from a single, distinctive feature to the engineering and fabrication of fully customised components to produce a real one-off.
A sports-themed interior with cutting-edge technology and ultimate luxury Vantage doesn’t skimp on style, comfort, or equipment levels, even if it is a hard-core sports vehicle at heart. With an all-new, ultra-luxury interior defined by perfect architectural lines, swathed in the finest materials, and packed with cutting-edge connected technology, including a stunning surround sound system created by audio partner Bowers & Wilkins, the new generation Vantage makes an astounding statement.
The Vantage cockpit’s crisp, uninterrupted lines provide an eye-catching but refined atmosphere that gives the driver a sensation of room and clarity. The new Vantage inside is a triumph of practical beauty and tactile excellence, from the sleek air vents and flawlessly integrated infotainment screen to the clearly defined array of physical controls on the bottom half of the centre console.
Though the driving position, incredibly supportive sports seats, and driver-focused ergonomics lend a seamless functionality that underlines the grandeur and heightens the enjoyment of every ride, the soft, scented, hand-stitched Bridge of Weir hides create a cosy, cosy place.
Vantage is equipped with an Aston Martin 390W 11-speaker audio system as standard. This system, which was created with cutting-edge technology, has an immersive soundscape thanks to its surround sound mode, which uses QuantumLogic® surround sound processing.
True audiophiles, however, will appreciate the optional system created in collaboration with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. This outstanding system makes use of the same technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins’ renowned world-class loudspeakers, and it is acoustically tuned to the Vantage’s interior volume and form.
This double-amplified 1,170W surround sound system with 15 speakers produces a well-balanced and accurate sound thanks to its Continuum® midrange speakers and Aluminium Double Dome tweeters. The sound experience is as dramatic and powerful as the Vantage itself, thanks to dedicated 3D headlining speakers and a robust subwoofer.
The second vehicle from Aston Martin with next-generation infotainment is the Vantage. Designed internally and debuting in DB12, it is totally customised and built from the ground up. In addition, a brand-new Aston Martin customer connectivity software that works with iOS and Android smartphones enables users to communicate with, operate, and provide feedback to and from their Vantage using a personal device.
It is a fully functional 10.25-inch Pure Black touchscreen device with complete online connectivity that allows for both single- and multi-finger gesture control. The good tactile feel of physical switches is matched with touchscreen controls, and buttons are kept for the essential mechanical functions of heating, ventilation, gear selection, and drive selection. The most often used functions may be easily accessed without taking your eyes off the road thanks to override switches for the chassis, ESP, exhaust, lane assist, and park distance control.
Online connectivity and a brand-new Aston Martin app serve as the foundation of the Vantage’s infotainment system, providing owners with the ability to connect, converse, and engage with their vehicle.
Through improved simplicity of use, peace of mind, and the ability to update and upgrade car features from the comfort and safety of their mobile phone, online connectivity will enhance the ownership experience. Aston Martin Connected Car is a system that is always growing and will change along with products, services, and vehicle support.
The Vantage, the Aston Martin app, and Aston Martin’s secure data servers are the three main components of this brand-new connected automobile ecosystem. Through the inbuilt e-SIM in Vantage, which is provided and sponsored by Aston Martin, these three parts are connected through internationally roaming 4G LTE / GSM cellular networks. A personal device that is on board and a related data contract are hosting the Aston Martin app. The most recent industry standards for cloud security and cyber security safeguard personal data.
Owners are encouraged to register for the new Aston Martin app and generate a personal AML ID when they purchase a new Vantage. The software, which is available for iOS and Android, maximises the Aston Martin ownership experience by providing a selection of connected car subscription packages that are free for the first three years.
Customised content tailored to their car is shown on simple, user-friendly displays that perfectly complement the infotainment system’s updated UI/UX. Customers may manage their account information, track and secure their car, and participate in the Aston Martin owner community by sharing content through integrated media feeds all from the app.
The first Vantage deliveries are expected to start in Q2 of 2024, with production of the device expected to start in Q1 of that same year. For drivers who enjoy the challenge that a fast sports vehicle brings, Aston Martin’s new Vantage, the second model in their Next Generation of sportscars, sets a new standard for driving purity. Engineered for real drivers: the Aston Martin Vantage.