The Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025 is the stage for a debut set to shake up the luxury automotive world, Aston Martin today unveiled the Vantage S, a machine that not only raises the bar but completely redefines it in the front-engined sports car segment.
At the heart of this beast is an enhanced version of the already formidable 4.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8 engine, a product of Aston Martin's partnership with AMG. Now boasting 680 horsepower and a massive 800Nm of torque, available between 3000 and 6000rpm, these numbers promise truly instantaneous response, catapulting the Vantage S from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in a mere 3.4 seconds and achieving a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).
Aston Martin's engineers didn't stop at just increasing power. The accelerator pedal sensitivity has been recalibrated, offering bespoke resistance and throttle mapping for the "S" version across each driving mode. This aims for a perfect symbiosis between driver and machine, where every command is an invitation to excellence.
But the Vantage S goes far beyond raw power. The true magic lies in its dynamic enhancements. Aston Martin's chassis team focused on extracting greater agility and front-end grip from the Vantage platform, all without compromising comfort.
The Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers have received new calibrations, resulting in improved front axle sensitivity and response. The stiffness of the rear spring aids has been adjusted for a perfect balance between compression and rebound, optimizing ride quality at low speeds.
Direct mounting of the rear subframe to the body, eliminating rubber bushings, provides even more direct and connected steering. Complementing these innovations, fine adjustments to the suspension's camber, toe, and caster settings sharpen response, improve grip under high lateral loads, and precisely calibrate the overall dynamic balance.
Visually, the Vantage S is as striking as its performance. At the front, the new centrally mounted bonnet blades are more than just an aesthetic touch; they optimize hot air extraction from the V8 engine. The discreet yet striking "S" emblems on the front fenders are true automotive jewels, handcrafted and filled with red glass enamel.
At the rear, a full-width spoiler is the most explicit indicator of the Vantage S's performance focus. It's not just a matter of style; it increases rear downforce by 44 kg (97 lbs) at top speed, contributing to a total downforce of 111 kg (245 lbs). This element was crucial for balancing the car's aerodynamics, ensuring stability and improved cornering response. Exclusive 21-inch Y-spoke wheels, in satin black with a red graphic, and bronze brake calipers complete the imposing look.
Inside, the Vantage S embraces handcrafted luxury with an exclusive "Accelerate" package in Alcantara and leather as standard, complemented by 2x2 twill carbon fiber inserts. The hand-embroidered "S" logos on the upper shoulder panels of the seats, with nearly 2,500 individual stitches, are a testament to the commitment to luxury and performance.
The iconic Aston Martin wings are also embroidered onto the headrests, with the option of a pioneering embossing and debossing technique that sculpts the wings into the leather with ultra-precision. The "S" moniker also appears on the treadplates and the final inspection plaque in the engine bay. For those desiring further personalization, there's the option of red or silver anodized finishes for the knurled metal drive mode rotary, creating a bold centerpiece that harmonizes with seatbelts, contrast stitching, and embroidery.
Following its impressive climb up the famous Goodwood hill, the Vantage S is now available for order in both Coupe and Roadster versions. First deliveries are expected in Q4 2025.
