First Drive: The New Aston Martin Vantage
The new Aston Martin Vantage showcases significant advancements in power, agility, and refinement, maintaining the marque’s legacy while pushing its boundaries. This 656 hp coupe, tested on both a race circuit and country roads, exemplifies Aston Martin’s ambition under the guidance of executive chairman Lawrence Stroll to elevate the brand above competitors like Porsche and Mercedes-AMG.
Following the formula set by the DB12 coupe, the 2025 Vantage boasts 30 percent more power and 15 percent more torque than the previous model, accelerating from zero to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and reaching a top speed of 202 mph. Its exterior design exudes muscle and menace, with widened fenders and a larger grille enhancing cooling and aerodynamics. The new diffuser and rear spoiler generate significant downforce, improving stability at high speeds.
The interior has seen a substantial upgrade, featuring a horizontal vent graphic on the dash, a new 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, and a touchscreen interface that is both responsive and intuitive. The center console houses physical controls for essential functions, maintaining a blend of modern technology and traditional tactile experience.
Under the hood, this Aston Martin for sale is powered by a reworked 4.0-liter V-8 engine, originally developed by Mercedes-AMG. The engine, now more customizable by Aston Martin, delivers 656 hp and 590 ft-lbs of torque, aided by new cylinder heads, camshafts, and turbochargers. This power is managed through a revised ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, providing faster and smoother shifts.
The Vantage offers five driving modes, including a new Wet mode for enhanced stability on slippery surfaces. The suspension system, featuring new Bilstein DTX adaptive shocks, provides a wider tuning range, improving steering stiffness and overall body control. These enhancements reduce understeer and enhance ride comfort, making the Vantage both sharp and refined.
On winding roads, the Vantage exhibits remarkable precision in steering, braking, and power response. Its quick and concise handling is evident even in default Sport mode. Switching to Sport+ mode enhances the driving dynamics, though adjusting to Individual mode can provide a more balanced ride on rougher terrain. The optional carbon-ceramic brakes offer exceptional stopping power, complementing the car’s dynamic performance.
While the new Vantage impresses with its power and handling, it could benefit from a dual-clutch transmission to fully exploit its potential. The current eight-speed automatic, though smooth, lacks the immediacy needed for high-performance driving. Additionally, a shift light and more readable graphics on the digital dash would enhance the driving experience. Lightening the steering weighting could further refine the Vantage’s responsiveness, making it an even more formidable contender in the sports car arena.
