Aston Martin V12 Vantage S unveiled

Aston Martin has redesigned and re-engineered the potent V12 Vantage to create the fastest regular production car in its history: the 329kph V12 Vantage S.

Among the changes are a revised look that incorporates features such as the front grille from the CC100 concept, a more powerful V12 engine with 565bhp, a seven-speed automated manual gearbox in place of the previous six-speed manual, adaptive dampers and a lower kerb weight.

Aston Martin’s product development chief, Ian Minards, said the changes “broaden the appeal of the V12 Vantage” and offer “more performance and more excitement” but also greater usability.

“I’ve never met anyone who didn’t like the V12 Vantage after driving it,” said Minards, “so we were already in a good place. But the fact that it was so focused meant it wasn’t for all tastes to begin with. We’ve responded to that by making the V12 Vantage S, a car with broadened appeal.”