Aston Martin Virage Volante

The Aston Martin Virage Volante is a 22 seater convertible that embodies the essence of luxury and performance. Launched in 2011, it features a 6.0-litre V12 engine that produces 490bhp and 420lb ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The car is built on Aston Martins VH architecture and boasts impressive handling and ride quality, thanks to its advanced suspension system. The interior is highly customizable and features premium materials, including real glass on the switchgear and metal controls for the electric seats. The Volante version comes with a soft-top convertible roof, which, while adding to the cars charm, slightly compromises on rigidity. With a boot capacity of 152 litres, it is more than adequate for short trips. Overall, the Virage Volante is a unique blend of power, luxury, and exclusivity, making it a desirable choice for auto enthusiasts who can afford its premium price.

The Aston Martin Virage Volante is a masterpiece of luxury and performance, albeit with some minor flaws. The vehicle boasts a 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 490bhp and 420lb ft of torque, making it a formidable contender in the sports car segment. The steering is precise, and the grip levels are impressive, despite the cars mass. The ride quality is exceptional, thanks to Aston Martins suspension revolution, making it comfortable for both city driving and cross-continental jaunts. However, the need to frequently downshift to harness the full power of the engine can be a bit tedious. The Volante version, with its soft-top convertible, adds a touch of elegance but comes with a slight loss of rigidity and more wind noise. Overall, its a unique ride that offers a perfect balance of power, luxury, and driving pleasure, making it a great choice for those who can afford its hefty price tag.

The Aston Martin DB12 Volante has been praised for its exceptional performance and handling. With a 671-hp twin-turbo V8 engine and a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, it delivers a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph. The cars adaptive dampers and electronic rear differential contribute to its impressive driving dynamics. I think this convertible is a standout in its class for both speed and comfort.

Aston Martins DB12 Volante features a significantly strengthened chassis, including fortified suspension mounting points and underbody reinforcements, which enhance its torsional rigidity and bending resistance. This makes the car more stable and responsive, even on rough roads. The improvements have clearly paid off in terms of overall driving experience.

The DB12 Volante boasts an all-new ultra-luxury interior with high-end leather, Alcantara, and advanced infotainment systems. The eight-layer fabric roof can be stowed away in just 16 seconds, even at speeds up to 31 mph. This attention to detail makes the DB12 Volante a luxurious and practical choice for open-top driving. I believe the interior design is one of the highlights of this car.

Aston Martins decision to quickly bring the DB12 Volante to market has been seen as a strategic move to combat slowing sales. Despite not being part of a long-term strategy, the DB12 Volante has exceeded expectations with its outstanding performance, improved handling, and redesigned cabin. This reactive approach seems to have paid off well for Aston Martin.

The DB12 Volantes exterior design includes unique features such as a new grill shape, 21-inch forged wheels, and carbon ceramic brake rotors. The cars styling, particularly with the top down, has been praised for its elegance and sporty appeal. The functional side fender vents add a touch of both style and functionality. I think the design is a perfect blend of luxury and sportiness.

In India, the Aston Martin Virage Volante is priced in the range of Rs. 2.5 crores to Rs. 3 crores, depending on the variant and the optional interior and exterior equipment chosen. This places it firmly in the luxury segment, competing with other high-end vehicles like the Audi R8, Bentley Continental GT, and Jaguar XK. The ex-showroom price for the Volante version is typically around Rs. 2.8 crores, but this can vary based on location and customizations. On-road prices, including taxes and other costs, can push the total to around Rs. 3.2 crores or more. While the price is certainly a deterrent for many, for those seeking exclusivity and top-tier performance, the Virage Volante is an investment worth considering.

The Aston Martin Virage Volante is not known for its fuel efficiency, which is typical for a high-performance sports car. It offers a mileage of around 5.4 kmpl in city driving and 7.9 kmpl on highways. This translates to significant running costs, especially considering the premium fuel it requires. If mileage and running costs are a major concern, this might not be the best choice. However, for those who prioritize performance and luxury over fuel efficiency, the Virage Volantes mileage is a manageable trade-off.