Aston Martin’s New Vantage: Meeting the Brand’s Essential Requirements

During the mid-2000s to the 2010s, Aston Martin was known for producing some of the most stylish vehicles on the market. These cars were not only visually stunning but also enjoyable to drive and to hear.

However, the company eventually experienced a downturn, with its model lineup becoming uninspiring. When new offerings like the DB11 and the second-generation Vantage were finally introduced, they failed to live up to the legacy of their predecessors. Thankfully, it seems Aston Martin is making a comeback, as demonstrated by the latest Vantage.

The previous Vantage’s appeal largely stemmed from its prestigious badge, but the new model offers much more than just brand recognition. While it shares a platform with its predecessor and is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter Mercedes-AMG V8, comprehensive updates to nearly every component have enhanced its performance.

Traditionally, the Vantage has been a competitor to the entry-level Porsche 911 models. However, Aston Martin is now clearly targeting the 911 Turbo. Priced at $194,500, the Vantage is just below the cost of the regular Turbo, and its 656 horsepower surpasses the 640 of the 911 Turbo S, marking a substantial improvement over the old Vantage’s 503 horsepower. Still, the driving experience of the Vantage is distinctly different from that of a 911 Turbo.

Characterized by its understated elegance, the 911 Turbo combines a reserved demeanor with remarkable speed, making it one of the world’s quickest cars, especially in challenging weather conditions. The new Vantage has a more aggressive, heavyweight presence, embodying the classic front-engine, rear-drive layout with ample power while still exhibiting finesse.

Aston Martin has achieved excellent chassis balance and a genuine steering feel in the new Vantage. However, they have improved the brake pedal feel through the use of carbon-ceramic rotors. The previous generation lacked any real pedal feedback, but this new version instills confidence in the driver to apply the brakes effectively.

Though the damping is generally effective, the Vantage has a firm ride that can make it challenging over larger bumps, occasionally causing the driver to feel lifted from their seat. The last 911 Turbo I drove featured an optional sport suspension that was equally firm.

Therefore, when driving the Vantage, it’s advisable to keep the adaptive dampers in the softer “Sport” setting unless exceptionally smooth roads, where adjustments to “Sport+” or even “Track” may be beneficial.

Impressively fast, the Vantage certainly meets expectations with its 656 horsepower, but it feels even quicker than its specifications indicate. Aston Martin has tailored their own version of the AMG V8, which provides robust power across the rev range and produces an unexpectedly melodic sound—contrasting with the deeper tones of the engine in AMG’s vehicles.

Although the eight-speed automatic transmission may not deliver the same sharpness as a dual-clutch setup, it operates smoothly at low speeds and is quick to respond when pushed. However, the inclusion of a manual transmission would be a welcome addition, and it’s something Aston Martin is capable of providing.

Driving the Vantage matches its striking appearance, exuding exuberance and a sense of occasion, even a hint of playfulness. The interior complements the driving experience, showcasing Aston Martin’s development of a unique infotainment system and a center console that favors physical buttons over the industry trend toward screens.

The controls generally function well and feel premium, although the haptic steering wheel controls and light switches sourced from Mercedes-Benz feel somewhat lacking in quality, but they don’t detract from the experience. While the cabin may not rival that of Bentley, it certainly feels more special than that of a 911, and crucially, the interior no longer serves as a deterrent to potential buyers.

The aesthetics deserve attention, too. While the new Vantage retains some elements from its predecessor, it has shed the previous model’s awkwardness, resulting in one of the most visually stunning cars available today.

It’s a vehicle that captures attention everywhere it goes, drawing overwhelmingly positive reactions. Its beauty is sophisticated rather than flashy, perfectly embodying the purpose of an Aston Martin.

Although the new Vantage undercuts the base price of the current 911 Turbo, the pricing for options can be excessive. Carbon-ceramic brakes cost $14,000, the Bowers & Wilkins sound system adds $10,000, and the total for carbon-fiber exterior trim can reach $18,000. The additional features can cause the initial price of $194,500 to swell to $292,500. Our recommendation? Tread lightly when selecting options.

Nonetheless, this is a car that has a way of winning you over. While it may not dethrone the 911 Turbo due to its distinctly different personality, it’s this very character that enhances its appeal—after all, a 911 Turbo lacks the same level of enjoyment.

If there were awards for the most improved vehicles, the new Vantage would certainly be a top contender. It addresses the disappointments of the previous model and restores Aston Martin’s status as a highly desirable brand.