Aston Martin Vantage Expert Review

In terms of design, the new Vantage demands attention. It’s far more aggressive than the outgoing model and borrows elements from the DB12 and the One-77. Key changes include larger Matrix LED headlamps, a new grille, air curtains, and a more sculpted bonnet. The sides retain the vented fenders and now get an Aston Martin-branded strake, along with striking 21-inch wheels and full-housing mirrors. Despite just 94mm of ground clearance, it handles bad roads and multiple speed breakers without scraping – and that’s without a front axle lift.
Around the back, the Vantage keeps its familiar light signature, but it’s now 30mm wider. Aero tweaks like a revised underbody, diffuser, ducktail spoiler, and larger quad exhausts complete the new look.
 

Getting in is an experience in itself, thanks to Aston’s signature swan doors. Inside, the cabin is all-new – modern, driver-focused, and beautifully finished. Twin 10.25-inch screens dominate the dash: one for infotainment, one for the instrument cluster. While stylish, the latter’s data can be hard to read on the go.
Buttons and toggles on the angled centre console are tactile and purposeful. The optional Sports Plus seats offer excellent support and are finished in soft leather. Storage is decent too – with a glovebox, slim door pockets, wireless charger, and usable boot space for a weekend getaway.
 

At its heart is a reworked 4.0-litre AMG-sourced twin-turbo V8 pushing 665hp and 800Nm – 30 percent more than before. It hits 100kph in a claimed 3.5 seconds and sounds absolutely raucous while doing it – with burbles, whooshes, and crackles galore. There is some turbo lag, but it pulls hard to its 7,000rpm redline.
Drive modes include Sport, Sport+ and Track. Sport is best for daily use; Sport+ adds flair; Track is razor-sharp but best left to a circuit. The ZF 8-speed torque converter may lack DCT aggression, but its smoothness suits the car’s dual personality.
 

The Vantage’s claimed combined WLTP fuel economy is rated at 8.3kpl, though we haven’t tested it in the real-world.
 

The ride is firm but tolerable and some tyre and road noise creeps in. Handling, however, is superb – thanks to added chassis bracing, 50:50 weight distribution, quicker steering, and improved aero. It’s agile, planted, and sharp.
 

The Vantage comes with all the essentials – powered seats with memory, 21-inch alloys, ADAS, and lots of customization options. The test car we got also had carbon-fibre trim, contrasting blue stitching, and satin dark chrome details. Everything feels bespoke and premium – a clear step up from before.
 

At Rs 4.20 crore (ex-showroom), the new Vantage sits between the Porsche 911 Turbo S and Ferrari Roma. It’s rare, stunning, loud, fast, and practical enough for Indian roads. Is it a sportscar with GT traits or a GT with sportscar flair? The latter feels more accurate – and that’s what makes it so special.