The British luxury carmaker has just unleashed something special for driving enthusiasts who crave both refinement and raw performance. The new Vantage S represents everything that makes Aston Martin legendary – stunning design, incredible engineering, and an emotional connection that few cars can match.
Heart of the Beast: Mercedes-AMG V8 Turned Up to Eleven
At the core of this mechanical masterpiece sits a Mercedes-AMG sourced 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that now produces an astounding 500kW of power. That’s an extra 11kW over the standard model, but the real magic happens in how this power gets delivered.
The torque figure remains at 800Nm, but engineers have cleverly shifted the delivery range from 3000-6000rpm compared to the broader 2000-5000rpm spread in the regular version. This change creates a more focused, high-revving character that rewards committed driving while maintaining everyday usability.
Performance That Takes Your Breath Away
The numbers tell an impressive story. This British beauty rockets from standstill to 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds – a tenth quicker than its sibling. Push harder and you’ll hit 200km/h in 10.1 seconds, all while the eight-speed automatic transmission and carbon-fibre driveshaft work seamlessly together.
The top speed remains at 326km/h, but frankly, the real thrill comes from how this car changes direction and responds to your inputs rather than straight-line bragging rights.
Chassis Engineering: Where Science Meets Art
Suspension Sophistication
The development team didn’t just add power and call it done. They’ve completely reimagined how this car interacts with the road through extensive chassis modifications that transform the driving experience.
The front dampers have been retuned using Bilstein DTX adaptive technology to deliver better steering feel and connection. Meanwhile, the rear suspension received softer springs to improve low-speed ride quality – proof that performance doesn’t have to mean punishment.
Precision Through Engineering
One particularly clever change involves mounting the rear subframe directly to the body rather than through rubber bushings. This modification sharpens steering precision while maintaining the comfort expected from a grand tourer.
The transmission mount stiffness has been reduced by 10%, which might sound counterintuitive but actually improves refinement without sacrificing performance. Engineers have also fine-tuned wheel camber, toe, and caster settings to maximize front-end grip when the car is working hard.
Aerodynamic Artistry Meets Function
Visual drama meets aerodynamic purpose in the Vantage S design language. The new front bumper features an air-dam and venturi vanes that work alongside underbody modifications and a larger rear deck spoiler to generate 67kg of additional downforce at top speed.
Two distinctive ‘bonnet blades’ finished in either gloss black or carbon fibre give the car an unmistakably purposeful appearance, while hand-crafted forged brass ‘S’ badges with red detailing grace the front guards and bootlid.
Interior Luxury Meets Racing Spirit
Craftsmanship in Every Detail
Step inside and you’re greeted by an environment that balances luxury with sporting intent. The standard ‘Accelerate’ interior combines Alcantara and leather with carbon-fibre trim pieces that feel substantial and purposeful.
Aston Martin’s attention to detail shines through in unexpected places. The company uses 16 metres of thread throughout the cabin, including over 2500 individual stitches. The ‘S’ logos are embroidered into the seat headrests, while buyers can choose red or silver anodised finishes for the rotary drive-mode controller.
Personalization Options
The optional ‘Inspire Sport’ package elevates the interior experience further with semi-aniline leather and perforated surfaces. For those wanting even more exclusivity, Aston offers unique embossing and debossing techniques that use 1.5 tonnes of pressure and heat to sculpt the wings logo directly into the leather.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Power Output | 500kW |
| Torque | 800Nm (3000-6000rpm) |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| 0-100km/h | 3.4 seconds |
| 0-200km/h | 10.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 326km/h |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Body Styles | Coupe & Roadster |
| Expected AU Price | ~$450,000+ |
| Launch Year | 2026 (Australia) |
| Debut Event | Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025 |
Australian Arrival and What to Expect
While Aston Martin hasn’t officially confirmed Australian availability, previous model launches suggest the Vantage S will arrive Down Under sometime in 2026. Expected pricing hovers around $450,000 before on-road costs for the coupe, positioning it roughly $40,000 above the standard model.
Both coupe and roadster variants will be offered, giving buyers the choice between ultimate structural rigidity or open-air motoring experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much more powerful is the Vantage S compared to the regular Vantage?
A: The S produces 500kW versus 489kW in the standard car – an 11kW increase with refined torque delivery.
Q: When will the Vantage S be available in Australia?
A: While not officially confirmed, based on previous launches, expect availability in 2026 with deliveries starting late in the year.
Q: What’s the main difference between coupe and roadster versions?
A: Both share identical powertrains and performance figures, with the roadster offering convertible top functionality for open-air driving.
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