What have we here?
It's the new S version of the Aston Martin Vanquish, boosted with engine, chassis, aerodynamics and aesthetic updates to make the V12-engined 'Super GT' even more desirable.
We like a V12...
We certainly do and this will be one of the final resting places for Aston's charismatic naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 unit, as it'll be completely replaced by the new twin-turbo unit from the DB11 in time. For the Vanquish S, Aston has turned the wick up to 600hp (from 573hp previously), produced at a spine-tingling 7,000rpm. Maximum torque is 630Nm at 5,500rpm. The increased power output is partly to do with larger volume inlet manifolds. Aston Martin quotes a 0-62mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 201mph. Naturally, power is sent to the rear wheels, via a limited slip differential and a carbon fibre prop shaft. There's an updated eight-speed 'Touchtronic III' automatic transmission as standard with a launch control function built in.
So what's new in the chassis?
The core suspension design is unchanged, with independent double wishbones, coil springs, adaptive dampers and anti-roll bars front and rear, but it has all been tweaked for keener responses, including the damper internals, spring rates and anti-roll bar bushes. As before, the Adaptive Damping System offers normal, sport and track settings.
You mentioned aero changes too...
Look closely at the pictures and you'll see that the Vanquish S wears an exposed carbon splitter up front, sill 'blades' at the side and a diffuser out back. Aston reckons the package delivers a 'meaningful reduction in frontal lift with a minimal penalty in additional drag'. The rear diffuser is visually offset by a gorgeous new quad exhaust pipe arrangement.
Anything else new to look at?
Depends how deep your pockets are. New options include carbon fibre bonnet louvres, diamond-turned five-spoke wheels and painted graphics packs. Inside, new trim options include 'Filograph' quilted leather and the 'Satin Chopped Carbon Fibre' fascia panel.
What does Aston have to say about all this?
Dr. Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President and CEO, said: "From the moment the original Vanquish was launched it became a modern icon. It propelled Aston Martin from an era of hand-built cars to one where craftsmanship and technology combined to create a new kind of great British GT.
"In its second generation the Vanquish maintained that momentum with huge engineering advances such as its all-carbon fibre bodywork and compelling, contemporary styling. Now, the Vanquish S takes things a step further, confidently asserting itself within the Aston Martin range and distinguishing itself from the new DB11. A spectacular machine in every sense, the Vanquish S is a magnificent addition to our range."
So, how much?
The Vanquish S Coupe will be £199,950 and there's an open-topped Vanquish S Volante offered too.
Shane O' Donoghue - 16 Nov 2016