► New Aston Martin Vanquish S revealed
► V12 GT gets engine and chassis tweaks
► On sale now for upwards of £199,950
It’s not over for Aston Martin’s naturally aspirated V12 – not just yet, at least, anyway. This, the newly revealed range-topping Vanquish S, eschews forced induction in favour of a host of classic tuning tweaks for increased power and quicker responses.
The new high-performance Aston Martin Vanquish S isn’t solely about straight-line speed, though; Astons’s also upgraded the transmission, sharpened the suspension and given the GT a cosmetic overhaul in order to boost its appeal.
Andy Palmer, boss of Aston, said: ‘In its second generation the Vanquish maintained that momentum with huge engineering advances such as its all-carbonfibre 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.’
So what’s been changed for the S?
Aston’s fitted the Vanquish’s 5.9-litre V12 with larger intake manifolds, allowing for improved airflow at higher speeds. The result is a gain of some 26bhp at the top end, although torque remains unchanged.
The company’s also seen fit to recalibrate the rear-mounted eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s claimed to deliver quicker shifts, resulting in a more precise, eager feel.
These upgrades should tie in nicely with the newly revised suspension set-up, which features altered spring rates and damper tweaks, which Aston says results in a sportier feel – without, supposedly, compromising the ride quality.
How does it stack up on the performance front?
The front-engined GT packs some serious credentials. As follows:
- Engine Naturally aspirated 48-valve 5935cc V12
- Power 595bhp at 7000rpm
- Torque 465lb ft at 5500rpm
- 0-62mph 3.5sec
- Top speed 201mph (target)
- Transmission Eight-speed rear-mounted automatic, RWD w/LSD
- Kerb weight 1739kg
- Economy 21.6mpg (claimed)
- Emissions 302g/kg of CO2
The S’s extra punch helps it knock 0.1sec off the 3.6sec 0-62mph dash of the standard Vanquish. Its top speed remains unchanged, however.
What else do I need to know?
There’s a few changes to the Vanquish’s exterior, including a revised front splitter and rear diffuser. You’ll also find quad exhausts at the back, in place of the standard car’s two. If you want to make your new Vanquish S stand out even more, you can specify options including forged five-spoke wheels and carbonfibre bonnet louvres.
Similarly, a host of new interior trims and finishes are offered for those looking to personalise their new V12 GT.
When can I get my hands on one?
You can order a Vanquish S, in either Coupe or Volante form, now. Prices start at £199,950, and deliveries are scheduled to start at the end of 2016.
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