Vantage point
The new Aston Martin Vantage defined by bold new look, intensified performance and dynamics.
22 November 2017
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Vantage. An evocative name for a magnificent bloodline of thoroughbred sports cars. Today this formidable sporting dynasty is poised to hit new heights with the introduction of the new Vantage.
Reflecting its increased performance, capabilities and sporting character, the new Vantage boasts an athletic, muscular physique. Driven by the desire to more explicitly express the clear nature of each Aston Martin model, the Vantage has a predatory stance that roots it emphatically to the road. Shaped by a philosophy of consequential lines, the body has purity, elegance and balance, each line present because it serves a purpose. This creates a clear message of sporting intent without having to resort to gimmicks.
This direct link to performance can be seen in the functional aerodynamics of the body surfaces. A fully integrated front splitter flows seamlessly into the minimal front overhang. The side strake has been stripped back into a new side gill so that it too is now an integrated surface, rather than an applied detail. It also serves an aerodynamic purpose, bleeding air from the front wheel arch to minimise lift and feed air along the flanks of the car.
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The front and rear lights are ultra-slim LEDs and have been used to stunning effect. Whether you’re following or being followed these visual signatures ensure the Vantage is unmistakable. Shape and drama define every aspect of the Vantage, never more so than at the rear, where the diffuser and pronounced kick in the upswept deck lid clearly show how the Vantage uses the airflow over its surfaces to generate stability-enhancing downforce. Bold, less restrained and more celebratory, the Vantage is a brilliantly expressive and exciting piece of design.
The interior is every bit as dynamic: a true and purposeful sports car interior that is a departure from the flowing lines and central waterfall console that has previously defined Aston Martin interiors. Instead the Vantage cockpit is dominated by a compact, focused console that shrink wraps the technical architecture – that’s to say the areas of switchgear, such as the new PRND transmission switches, which are now positioned in a triangular formation. The instrument cowl has protruding forms that act like blinkers to focus the driver’s gaze. The seating position is 10mm lower to foster a truly immersive feel. A choice of Sport and Sport Plus seats offer exceptional comfort, with the more heavily bolstered option seat providing greater support in dynamic situations.
Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman says “the New Vantage has the most powerful and provocative design language ever seen in a Vantage. A hunter, light in weight and is therefore light in its visual language.
It is based on a single line under tension, inspired by the DB10 and the extreme track-only Aston Martin Vulcan, blending the two unique design languages together into a form that is sculpted, dynamic, pure and elemental”.
Careful attention has been paid to the fixed paddle shifters, which have been developed to facilitate up and downshifts without the driver having to reposition their hands on the steering wheel. The shift feel itself has also been honed for a satisfyingly positive feel. The HVAC controls are a combination of classic rotary and toggle style switches, as they are the quickest and most intuitive means of adjusting temperature and airflow while on the move. These apparently small details all reinforce the pure, analogue, tactile nature of the Vantage driving experience.
As standard, the Vantage is trimmed extensively with Alcantara and leather which perfectly suits the sporting nature of the car, while beautifully executed details, such as the saddle leather door pull provide the perfect reminder of Aston Martin’s unrivalled commitment to craftsmanship. Though a strict two-seater, the Vantage is a genuine everyday proposition. A practical tailgate opens onto a 350-litre boot space. In the main passenger compartment, there are generous double-tier storage areas behind the seats, which are perfect for stowing handbags, briefcases or items of clothing while travelling.
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