Aston Martin has unveiled the highly anticipated Vantage S, an upgraded, more performance-focused iteration of its celebrated sports car. Boasting a formidable 680 horsepower from its enhanced twin-turbo V8 engine, the Vantage S isn't just about raw power; it features extensive chassis revisions, recalibrated suspension, and aerodynamic enhancements designed to deliver unparalleled agility, driver connection, and precision. With subtle yet assertive styling cues and a track-capable, road-optimized demeanor, the Vantage S sets a new benchmark for front-engined luxury sports cars. Deliveries are expected to commence in Q4 2025.
The Evolution of the Vantage: Introducing the 'S'
The Aston Martin Vantage has long been celebrated as a thrilling and driver-focused sports car. Now, with the introduction of the "S" variant, Aston Martin is pushing the boundaries of performance and engagement even further. The Vantage S builds upon the already impressive 2024 facelift, taking its capabilities to a new echelon with significant mechanical and aerodynamic refinements. This new model made its global dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025, showcasing its sharpened prowess on the iconic hill climb.
Unpacking the Power and Performance
At the heart of the new Vantage S lies an upgraded version of Aston Martin's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, sourced from Mercedes-AMG. This powerhouse now delivers a class-defining 680 horsepower (680 PS), a 15 PS increase over the standard Vantage. While peak torque remains at 800 Nm (590 lb-ft), it's now delivered across a broader range, between 3,000 and 6,000 rpm, ensuring immediate in-gear response.
This enhanced power, coupled with optimization of the launch control system and a more responsive drive-by-wire throttle calibration, results in blistering acceleration:
0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in just 3.3 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds), shaving 0.1 seconds off the standard model's time.
0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in 10.1 seconds.
Top speed remains an exhilarating 202 mph (325 km/h).
Chassis and Dynamics: A Symphony of Precision
While the power bump is notable, the true essence of the Vantage S lies in its comprehensive chassis and suspension revisions. Aston Martin's engineers have undertaken an extensive overhaul to maximize agility, driver connection, and composure without compromising ride comfort:
Adaptive Dampers: The Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers have undergone hardware tuning and software calibration changes, resulting in increased front-end feel and response.
Rear Suspension: Rear spring aid stiffness has been reduced to balance compression and rebound for improved low-speed ride quality.
Transmission Mounts: A 10% reduction in transmission mount stiffness enhances refinement by allowing the powertrain to breathe in harmony with the body and chassis.
Direct-Mounted Subframe: For greater directness and steering connection, the rear subframe is now directly mounted to the body, eschewing rubber bushes.
Optimized Geometry: The suspension's camber, toe, and caster settings have been meticulously finessed to sharpen response, improve front-end grip under high lateral loadings, and precisely dial-in the overall dynamic balance.
These changes are designed to give the Vantage S a "thrilling appetite for corners backed up by steadfast stability," making it a more visceral and engaging driving experience.
Assertive Design and Luxurious Interior
The Vantage S distinguishes itself visually with subtle yet purposeful design cues that hint at its heightened performance:
Exterior: New centrally mounted bonnet blades (available in gloss black or 2x2 Twill Carbon Fibre) not only provide a more assertive character but also optimize hot air extraction from the V8 engine. A prominent full-width decklid spoiler significantly increases rear downforce by 44kg at top speed, contributing to a total of 111kg of downforce when combined with front and underbody aero updates. Discreet, hand-made brass-forged 'S' badges with red glass enamel in-fill adorn the front fenders. New optional 21-inch satin black alloy wheels with red accents and bronze brake calipers further amplify its aggressive stance.
Interior: The cabin of the Vantage S exudes sporting poise with unique Alcantara, and leather "Accelerate" upholstery as standard, complemented by satin 2x2 twill carbon fiber trim inlays. Embroidered 'S' logos on the seat shoulders (featuring nearly 2,500 individual stitches) and embroidered Aston Martin wings on the headrests underscore the bespoke craftsmanship. Customers can also opt for a knurled metal drive mode rotary control in either red or silver anodized finish, color-matched with seatbelts, contrast welt, contrast stitch, and headrest embroidery. An "Inspire Sport" interior package offers full semi-aniline leather or a combination of leather and Alcantara with diminishing chevron quilting and placed perforations.
The Aston Martin Vantage S is available for order now in both coupe and roadster body styles, with deliveries set to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025. While pricing has yet to be formally announced, it is expected to command a significant premium over the standard Vantage, reflecting its enhanced performance and exclusive features.