A Subtle Revamp or Just a Vantage Slightly Louder?

Aston Martin has unveiled the new Vantage S, theoretically a sharper, more agile version of the already athletic Vantage. On paper, that means a modest bump of 15 horsepower, bringing the total to 680 from its four-liter twin-turbo V8, and a tenth-of-a-second improvement in the sprint to 100 km/h. Yes, 3.4 seconds is fast—but how often does that 0.1 second make a tangible difference in the real world?

Torque remains unchanged at 800 Nm, as does the ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive setup. The top speed of 325 km/h isn’t exactly a dramatic leap either. This feels more like a familiar track remastered with a few visual tweaks: hood vents, red accents, a new rear spoiler, and slightly increased downforce—111 kilograms in total. If that sounds like serious technical evolution, it might be worth taking a deep breath and reading again.

The suspension has seen some refinement—softer rear springs, a more responsive front end, and a rear subframe now bolted directly without rubber bushings. In theory, this translates to a more immediate, tactile driving experience.

Inside, the upgrades are more cosmetic than structural: Vantage S-embroidered seats, black-and-red 21-inch wheels, and an optional red drive mode selector button.

Deliveries begin later this year, and the price? Not yet revealed, though it’s safe to say frugality wasn’t part of the brief. The Vantage S will make its debut at the one place where every photo is immaculate and even the dust seems choreographed—Goodwood Festival of Speed.