Aston Martin Vantage S
The “S” designation signifies the strongest model in the lineup.
Following the previously released DBX S, the new Vantage S has been announced as a high-performance version of the Vantage.
The Aston Martin Vantage S is based on the Vantage, the pinnacle of front-engine sports cars, and boasts increased performance thanks to increased power output and a dedicated chassis. Special components have been added to the exterior and interior, and the car has been developed to reign as the benchmark in its segment.
Aston Martin has historically used the “S” suffix to designate high-performance models, and in the current lineup this is followed by the “DBX S.” In recent years, the company has introduced the “Vanquish S,” which was unveiled to the public at the 2004 Paris Motor Show, followed by the “V8 Vantage S” in 2011 and the “V12 Vantage S” in 2013.
Aston Martin CEO Adrian Hallmark commented on the new Vantage S:
“For decades, the Vantage has been synonymous with maximum performance, excitement and driving thrills. It was these attributes that were at the forefront of the new Vantage when it was launched last year to global acclaim. Going beyond these is the challenge and driving force behind the launch of the Vantage S.”
“The result is the Vantage S, which sets a new benchmark in the front-engined ultra-luxury sports car category – a car that will excite the most passionate and discerning Aston Martin customers.”
Improved engine output and dedicated chassis
The Vantage S is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine that has increased maximum output to 680 PS, and the chassis has been specially updated.
The Vantage S is powered by a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine that produces 680 PS and 800 Nm of torque. The throttle pedal has been specially refined and tuned to enhance driving pleasure and feel. The pedal feel now matches the drive-by-wire throttle map, and each drive mode has been specifically tuned.
Powertrain calibration has also been revised, and the launch control system has been optimised, resulting in a 0.1 second improvement in 0-60 mph time to 3.3 seconds (0-62 mph to 3.4 seconds), and a 0-124 mph (200 km/h) time of 10.1 seconds. Top speed remains the same as the Vantage, at 202 mph (325 km/h).
Extensive updates to the suspension, powertrain mounts, and control software have significantly improved the car’s agility and stability. Bilstein DTX adaptive damper tuning and software calibration have improved front axle feel and response. Lowering the rear spring rate has optimized the balance between compression and rebound, improving ride comfort at low speeds.
The rear subframe has been changed from rubber bushings to direct mounting to the body, and the suspension camber, toe and caster have been fine-tuned to achieve sharper response. This has improved the front section’s grip under high lateral loads and made the overall dynamic balance more precise.
Dedicated aerodynamic components
Special components such as a carbon fiber bonnet blade and deck lid spoiler will be introduced to improve cooling performance and downforce.
The exterior of the Vantage S is dominated by a centrally positioned bonnet blade, which is the eye-catching feature. Finished in gloss black and 2×2 twill carbon fibre, it not only creates a striking design statement but also efficiently vents hot air from the 4.0-litre V8 engine.
The only indication of the model is a discreet “S” badge on the front fender. Crafted from hand-forged brass, the “S” is a jewellery-worthy piece of jewellery. Filled with red enamel glass, the “S” is framed in bright or dark chrome to match the customer’s choice of Aston Martin wing badge colour.
The rear section is fitted with a decklid spoiler that spans the full width of the vehicle. Not only is it a visual design element, it also increases rear downforce by 44 kg at top speed, generating a total of 111 kg of downforce. While improving stability, it also shifts the balance of downforce towards the front section, resulting in excellent turn-in response and high cornering grip.
The car also comes with an optional 21-inch Y-spoke wheel finish in satin black with red accents. Red details, like the “S” badge, create an elegant contrast with the bronze-painted brake calipers.
A racy cockpit that highlights the “S” design
The racing-style cockpit, made from a combination of Alcantara and leather, features special “S” logos in various parts.
The Vantage S features an Accelerate interior with Alcantara and leather accents, complemented by Satin 2×2 Twill carbon fibre trim inlays, creating a sporty cockpit that is also significantly lighter than the Vantage.
As an exclusive feature, the “S” logo is embroidered on the upper shoulder panel of the seat in a color-matched style. The “S” is created with approximately 2,500 stitches and over 16 meters of thread, embodying Aston Martin’s commitment to the ultimate luxury and performance of its S models.
The headrests are embroidered with Aston Martin wings, and an option is available for embossed and debossed wings, an industry first. These wings are meticulously sculpted into the leather using extreme pressure (1.5 tonnes) and heat. The ‘S’ mark is also engraved on the treadplates and engine bay final inspection plaque.
The metal drive mode rotary switch is available in red or silver anodized finish, and the rotary switch color is also available for the seat belts, contrast welt, contrast stitching and headrest embroidery, allowing for a unique and cohesive look within the interior.
