Aston Martin is revolutionizing its sports car lineup, with the DB12 taking over from the DB11 as the first of the new arrivals. Following its footsteps is the new Vantage, spotted in the prototype form at the Nürburgring.
Vantage
The new Vantage seems to be a significant update of the current generation with a new front-end design featuring larger headlights and a more conservative grille. While mechanical changes are expected, Aston Martin has not yet revealed any specifics.
We will miss the V-12
However, Aston Martin will no longer offer a V-12 engine in the Vantage. The last of its V12 Vantage sports cars were launched in 2022. The new Vantage will likely be powered by the current turbocharged 4.0-litre V-8 sourced from Mercedes-Benz AMG, with some possible tweaks for extra performance.
Aston Martin is also phasing out the manual option with the arrival of the new Vantage. The new Vantage will also feature a completely redesigned dash with a more advanced infotainment system.
The current Vantage was introduced in 2018 as a 2019 model, but the new one is expected to be revealed later this year as a 2024 model.
Here are some of the fundamental changes to the new Vantage:
- New front-end design with larger headlights and a more conservative grille
- Mechanical tweaks, including a new suspension design, stiffer anti-roll bars, an electronic rear differential, and increased rigidity
- Completely redesigned dash with a more advanced infotainment system
- Drop V-12 and manual transmission.
- Continuation of the turbocharged 4.0-litre V-8 as the sole powertrain.
Pros of Aston Martin’s sports car lineup renewal:
- Enhanced Performance: With the updates and improvements in the new models like the DB12 and the Vantage, Aston Martin aims to provide a better performance, increased power, and improved handling characteristics. This can result in a more thrilling driving experience for enthusiasts.
- Updated Design: The introduction of refreshed designs, such as a new front-end design with larger headlights and a more conservative grille, can give the cars a fresh and modern look while maintaining Aston Martin’s iconic styling cues.
- Advanced Infotainment System: The planned redesigned dash and upgraded infotainment system indicate Aston Martin aims to provide a more advanced and modern technology interface for drivers, enhancing convenience and connectivity features.
- Improved Chassis and Suspension: Chassis tweaks, adjustable dampers, stiffer anti-roll bars, and other enhancements can contribute to better handling, improved stability, and an overall more engaging driving experience.
Cons of Aston Martin’s sports car lineup renewal:
- Potential Loss of Manual Transmission: The discontinuation of the manual transmission option in the new Vantage could disappoint enthusiasts who prefer a more involved driving experience and the tactile connection of a manual gearbox.
- Removal of V-12 Engine Option: If Aston Martin removes the V-12 engine from the Vantage lineup, it may disappoint those who appreciate the power, sound, and prestige associated with a V-12 powertrain.
- Lack of Detailed Information: The lack of specific details or official announcements can make it challenging to assess the actual advantages and disadvantages of the new models.
- Potential Cost Increase: With updates and improvements, the new models could come with a higher price tag than their predecessors. This might limit accessibility for some potential buyers.
Conclusion
Aston Martin’s sports car lineup renewal, including the introduction of the DB12 and the updated Vantage, brings several potential benefits and drawbacks.
On the positive side, the renewal promises enhanced performance, improved power, handling, and overall driving experience. The updated designs, such as the new front-end design, aim to give the cars a modern and refreshed look while retaining Aston Martin’s iconic styling cues.
The planned advanced infotainment system and redesigned dash focus on providing a more technologically advanced and convenient driving experience.
Manual transmission
However, there are some potential downsides to consider. Removing the manual transmission option may disappoint enthusiasts who prefer a more engaged driving experience.
Eliminating the V-12 engine option in the Vantage might disappoint those who value its power and prestige. Additionally, more specific and confirmed details about the upcoming models are needed to assess the advantages and disadvantages accurately.
