Aston Martin has introduced the latest Vantage to the Indian market, with prices commencing at Rs 3.99 crore (ex-showroom, India). Recently unveiled globally, this sports coupe has undergone a comprehensive redesign externally, and more notably, significant updates internally with a fresh dashboard and a completely new software platform. Under its bonnet, the Vantage maintains the 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V8 engine sourced from Mercedes-AMG, now with a substantial increase in power output.
Exterior Design of the Aston Martin Vantage
The redesigned Vantage presents a more assertive appearance compared to its predecessor. It features an expansive grille that spans nearly the width of the front bumper, newly designed intakes, pronounced character lines on the bonnet, and larger, more rounded headlights equipped with a three-piece LED DRL setup, aligning it visually with the DB12. There are also hints of the One-77 supercar in its design.
From the side, the Vantage showcases slightly altered air ducts on the fenders and, at the back, a more pronounced bumper and diffuser. Now 30mm wider, it sports a bolder stance, complemented by new frameless mirrors and sleek electronic door handles.
Interior and Features of the Aston Martin Vantage
Internally, the Vantage takes cues from the DB12, featuring a completely redesigned cockpit that emphasizes connectivity and user engagement. Moving away from the outdated Mercedes-sourced interface, it now boasts a proprietary infotainment system displayed on a 10.25-inch touchscreen, offering functionalities like 3D live mapping and wireless smartphone mirroring.
Even with the move to digital interfaces, Aston Martin keeps physical controls for a number of features, including as gear selection, climate control, and driving dynamics, to guarantee tactile responsiveness. A digital instrument cluster, a new steering wheel, and significantly better materials and construction quality are among the features of the cabin.
Powertrain and Specifications
The Vantage's powertrain sees a major upgrade with its Mercedes-AMG-derived 4.0-litre V8 engine now producing 665hp and 800Nm, enabling a sprint from 0-100kph in just 3.4 seconds and reaching a top speed of 325kph. An 8-speed automatic transmission, which is tuned for faster responsiveness and shifting, especially in Sport settings, is mated to the engine.
A lot of engine modification, including larger turbochargers, revised cam profiles, and modified compression ratios and cooling systems are all responsible for the performance gain. The car has an excellent 50:50 weight distribution with electronic rear differential and adaptive dampers.
Market Position and Competition
The new Vantage does not currently have plans for electrification, despite the existing V8 engine's use in Mercedes-AMG's plug-in hybrids. In the Indian market, it competes with high-end models like the Bentley Continental GT and Porsche 911 offering a blend of luxury, performance, and distinctive Aston Martin appeal.