New Aston Martin Vantage V8 - ordering available from Spring 2024

The new Aston Martin Vantage has a total output of 656 bhp from a new twin-turbo V8, a revised interior, and an array of deceivingly minor exterior updates, the 2024 Vantage is enriched in every metric.

Sadly, the 12-cylinder Vantage is no longer, but the new V8 offers a substantial power increase over the predecessor that should assure and relieve any criticism over the reduction in cylinders. The Vantage's sporting chassis is improved with revised suspension geometry and better dynamics software, and the infamous Mercedes-AMG V8 provides visceral thrills through snappy acceleration accompanied by a harmonious exhaust note.

The refreshed interior, no doubt cosseted, includes meticulously elevated hand-stitched leather and a modern infotainment system. Fortunately, a handful of physical controls for essential functions, including drive mode, exhaust selection, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air-condition) settings remain. Drivers seeking that esoteric sports car experience who find the similarly-priced Porsche 911 Turbo S and the Mercedes-AMG. GT63 S more predictable will find a kindred spirit in the Vantage; those seeking even more exclusivity and more continent cruising especially are welcome to step up to the Aston Martin DB12 super GT. 

With 656 bhp and 590 lb ft, the revamped 8-cylinder, the new Vantage is actually quicker than the now-redundant colossal V12-powerplant. Quick off the line with a 0-62 time of a mere 3.5 seconds, topping out at 202 mph. Whereas the former car produced only 503 bhp and 505 lb ft, whilst it took half of a second more to the finish; a top speed of 195 MPH. Power is transferred via the same eight-speed ZF automatic transmission as before to a set of a 21-inch wheels wearing bespoke Michelin tyres.

I think it's fair to say collectively, we can take our hats off to the engineers at Aston’ for the development of the new engine from their “extensive” tuning programme that has resulted tremendously; new cam profiles, finely adjusted compression ratios, enhanced cooling which is courtesy of a new lower radiator and two additional auxiliary coolers and, crucially, bigger turbochargers. Variability in traction control is specifically selectable from a nine-stage traction and stability control system allowing for finer control over system intervention.

Historically, the Vantage has benefitted from its aluminium chassis - only to be heavily revised as well, with improved rigidity and engagement. The front cross-member has been moved rearwards to increase rigidity of the front suspension mounting points more, for instance, and the brace in the engine bay is now lighter and stiffer.

Independent Double wishbone suspension is at the front with multilink suspension at the rear, with one of the Vantage’s real tricks being its Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, first offered in the DB12. Said to offer much greater bandwidth of force distribution, these dampers allow for finer control override than before, making changes in dynamic behaviour between drive modes more dramatic than before, in theory.

At front of the Vantage, aplenty changes featuring although still marked with the classic Aston Martin shape grille, it has been redesigned further up the front and the headlights will be closely resemble the new Aston Martin DB12 for a more familiar presence, along with taller, vertical LED headlights compared to the previous car. The Vantage's presence is more known by the the dramatic, full-width front grille which is now 38 percent larger than before and flanked by a pair of additional intakes to feed the two new auxiliary coolers. Surfacing is more dramatic throughout, with the bonnet now ridged in a similar fashion to the V12-powered One-77, with an enlarged splitter and the DB12’s frameless door mirrors also part of the appearance.

Prices for the new Aston Martin Vantage V8 start from £165,000, before optional extras and availability to order from Q2 2024. We will expect the soft-top counterpart to follow suite.