Move over, sports cars. The new Aston Martin Vantage roars onto the scene, not just as a refined athlete, but a full-fledged supercar slayer clad in a bespoke Savile Row suit. Boasting a monumental 656bhp – 153bhp more than its predecessor – it sets its sights firmly on the likes of the Porsche 911 Turbo S and Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S. But is this beauty all bark and no bite, or does it deliver the goods on the asphalt where it truly matters? Let’s peel back the bonnet and explore.

Power Surge: A Bespoke Heart of Fire

At the heart of this British bull lies a thoroughly reimagined 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, a joint masterpiece co-developed with AMG. A bespoke engine, tailored specifically for the Vantage’s insatiable hunger for performance. Larger turbos, tweaked camshafts, and a revised compression ratio unleash a staggering 656bhp and a gut-wrenching 800Nm of torque. To handle this fiery spirit, Aston has enlarged the air intakes, even fitting a dedicated turbo cooling duct to ensure optimal performance under even the most demanding conditions. A recalibrated 8-speed automatic transmission, mounted on the rear axle for improved balance, snaps through gears with lightning speed, while a shorter final drive ensures exhilarating punch in every gear.

0-62mph in 3.5 Seconds?

That’s not a typo. The new Vantage rockets from standstill to 62mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, a 0.2-second improvement over its predecessor and matching the limited-run V12 Vantage S. Need for speed? Prepare yourself for a top speed that clocks in at a hair-raising 202mph – 7mph faster than before. But raw power isn’t everything. To tame this newfound beast, Aston introduces a new Adjustable Traction Control system with eight intervention levels, allowing you to find your perfect balance between grip and exhilarating slides. This gives you free rein to adjust your preferences to the ever-changing road conditions.

More Than Muscle: Sharper Handling and a Tailored Suit

The chassis hasn’t been neglected either. Borrowing the V12 S’s 30mm wider stance, the new Vantage boasts improved stability and a more planted feel. The front end undergoes a complete makeover, ditching the clamshell bonnet for a sleeker design with a repositioned chassis member and strengthened panels for enhanced rigidity. Stiffer damper mounts and a new, non-isolated steering column promise sharper handling and a more connected feel to the road. Aston even claims a 30% increase in rear axle stiffness, translating to more precise turn-in and confidence-inspiring cornering. Remember those notoriously challenging British B-roads? The Vantage was honed on them, ensuring it devours any corner you throw at it with aplomb.

Sharper Lines, Luxurious Comfort: A Feast for the Eyes and Senses

Living up to Aston Martin’s legendary design heritage is no easy feat, but the new Vantage pulls it off to perfection. While sharing the basic silhouette of the V12, it boasts a fresh, aggressive look that turns heads wherever it goes. The slim headlights are replaced with larger units, flanking a wider grille and a more sculpted bonnet that hints at the power lurking beneath. The iconic side strakes make a welcome return, adding a touch of retro charm, while the integrated quad exhaust outlets in the diffuser scream “performance.”

Step inside, and the cabin welcomes you with a luxurious embrace. High-quality finishes and Aston’s latest infotainment system create a sophisticated yet driver-focused environment. Choose between sporty seats that hug you in corners or optional carbon fibre bucket seats for the ultimate track-focused experience. Remember though, this is strictly a two-seater affair, perfect for weekend getaways or spirited drives on a deserted coastal road.

Price and Availability: Exclusivity Comes at a Cost

Expect the new Vantage to hit showrooms in spring 2024 with a starting price around £165,000. It’s a supercar slayer, not a budget sports car. But for those who appreciate exclusivity, performance, and British craftsmanship, the Vantage offers a unique proposition. And let’s not forget the extensive options list, allowing you to personalise your supercar with bespoke touches that reflect your individual style.

Beyond the Road: The Vantage GT3 Races On

The Vantage story doesn’t end there. Aston unveiled the new Vantage GT3 race car alongside its road-going sibling. Featuring an aggressive aero package and the same (de-tuned) 4.0-litre engine, it aims to continue the outgoing model’s impressive racing legacy.

Our Verdict

With its monstrous power, sharpened handling, and luxurious cabin, the new Aston Martin Vantage is a serious contender in the supercar arena. It’s a statement piece, a British brute with the performance and pedigree to challenge the best. But will it truly live up to the hype? Only time, and a test drive, will tell.

What do you think? Does the new Aston Martin Vantage have what it takes to dethrone the established supercars? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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