Aston Martin elevates its thrilling sports car lineage to new heights with the arrival of the Aston Martin Vantage S. Positioned as the most performance focused model within the revered Vantage range, the ‘S’ builds upon the established class-leading dynamics of its predecessor, injecting increased power, sharper handling, and distinctive design elements to set a fresh standard for the marque’s acclaimed front-engine sports car offerings.
This latest incarnation honours Aston Martin’s storied tradition of applying the ‘S’ suffix to high-performance derivatives, a lineage stretching back to the Vanquish S of 2004 and the potent V8 and V12 Vantage S models that followed. As Aston Martin CEO Adrian Hallmark states, “The result is a new benchmark in the front-engined ultra-luxury sports car sector; a car to excite Aston Martin’s passionate and discerning customers.”
At the heart of the Vantage S lies a formidable upgrade: a tuned version of the 4.0-litre V8 Twin-Turbo engine. Now producing a commanding 680PS at 6000rpm and a massive 800Nm of torque between 3000-6000rpm, it delivers explosive acceleration. Paired with meticulous driver-focused dynamics refinements, including bespoke throttle mapping calibrated to each Drive Mode, the Vantage S sprints from 0-60mph in a blistering 3.3 seconds (0-62mph in 3.4s) and achieves a top speed of 202mph.
The pursuit of greater agility and connection is relentless. Engineers meticulously revised the suspension hardware, powertrain mounts, and control software. Key changes include tuning the Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers for enhanced front-end feel, reducing rear spring aid stiffness for improved low-speed ride, and a significant 10% reduction in transmission mount stiffness for refinement. Crucially, the rear subframe is now directly mounted to the body, eliminating rubber bushes and delivering unparalleled steering directness and connection. The overall suspension geometry (camber, toe, caster) has been finessed to sharpen response, boost front-end grip under high loads, and dial-in perfect balance. The result is a car offering thrilling cornering appetite backed by steadfast stability.
Visually, the Vantage S asserts its presence. New, centrally mounted bonnet blades – finished in gloss black or 2×2 Twill Carbon Fibre – optimise hot air extraction while lending a more assertive stance. Discreet yet striking forged brass ‘S’ badges adorn the front fenders, each a piece of automotive jewellery with red enamel infill. The most dramatic exterior statement is the new full-width decklid spoiler. This isn’t merely for show; it generates a significant 44kg increase in rear downforce at top speed, contributing to a total of 111kg downforce at Vmax. Combined with underbody revisions like a new front airdam and venturi vanes, this aerodynamic enhancement tunes the car for high-speed stability and front-end biased balance, ensuring exceptional turn-in response and sustained cornering grip. Optional 21″ Y-spoke wheels in satin black with a red graphic and contrasting bronze brake calipers complete the sporting look.
Inside, the commitment to bespoke luxury and performance is unmistakable. A unique Alcantara® and leather ‘Accelerate’ interior is standard, featuring satin 2×2 twill carbon fibre trim inlays. Handcrafted details abound: colour-matched embroidered ‘S’ logos grace the seat shoulders, involving nearly 2,500 stitches per side. The iconic wings are embroidered on the headrests, with an optional industry-first embossed/debossed technique creating a subtle, sculpted effect. The ‘S’ moniker also features on treadplates and the engine bay plaque. A unique interior option package highlights the model’s sporting kudos, offering a choice of red or silver anodised finish for the knurled metal drive mode rotary, colour-matched to seatbelts, contrast stitching, and embroidery. For ultimate indulgence, the Inspire Sport interior features semi-aniline leather with diminishing chevron quilting and placed perforations.
Fresh from its global dynamic debut at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it charged up the famous hill climb, the Aston Martin Vantage S has already captured the imagination of performance car enthusiasts. The Vantage S is available to order now in both Coupe and Roadster configurations, alongside the standard Vantage, with first deliveries anticipated late in 2025 – positioning it as the new apex predator in the front-engine sports car realm.