All-new Aston Martin Vantage makes touchdown in the Philippines

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November 9, 2018

Aston Martin Manila has officially launched the all-new Vantage, an evolution of the legendary British sports car that underscored the brand’s sporting heritage for over 70 years. It features a completely new exterior design which houses a whole host of goodies for a spirited drive on or off the racetrack.

The all-new Vantage takes its design inspiration from the latest DB11 and the menacingly beautiful Vulcan (This author’s personal favorite Aston Martin as of the moment.J). That said, its front end showcases a meaner, more aggressive appearance, thanks to a pair of slimmer LED headlights that accent the redesigned bumper.

One thing worth noting is that just below the front bumper resides a new look grille which does more than just cooling engine components. Within the grille is a splitter that smoothes out oncoming air. Beyond the splitter is a set of fences that distribute clean airflow underneath and through the rear diffuser. This not only ups the ante of the aerodynamics, but also lowers air pressure and turbulence.

In profile, the Vantage exhibits a more fluidic silhouette that’s vital to the overall improved aero. By the way, see the fender vent just beyond the front wheel? To some people, it may look a bit out of place, but it serves an important purpose - it aids in lowering air pressure coming from the front wheel arch, high air pressure that would otherwise hamper smooth aerodynamics up front.

In back, the all-new Vantage shows off its slimmer set of LED tail lights that compliment the overall sleeker appearance. Below the bumper are the aforementioned aerodynamic diffusers, as well as a set of tail pipes to complete the look. This author especially likes how the tailpipe housing compliments the wide stance of the car.

Hopping in the all-new Vantage reveals a motif of luxury. Designers have endowed with a good helping of leather, carbon fiber, and alcantara. But the highlight of the interior is the head unit. Case in point, Aston Martin sought the assistance of German carmaker Mercedes-Benz to install the former’s tried and true COMMAND infotainment system. This is why those familiar with the system can feel right at home while still giving newbies a welcoming treat.

On paper, the all-new Aston Martin Vantage can do 0 to 97 km/h (0 to 60 mph equivalent) in just 3.5 seconds, a sprinting ability that would ultimately reach a maximum speed of 314 km/h (or 195 mph as stated on the official press release). These numbers are made possible with the help of a Mercedes-AMG tuned 4.0L twin turbo V8 motor that delivers 503 hp and 685 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Lastly, Aston Martin says that the all-new Vantage is the first model in its line-up to run with an electronic rear differential or E-Diff. To simplify, E-Diff is a system that automatically adjusts vehicle driving dynamics according to factors such as sped, driver reaction/inputs, road conditions, among others. It basically is the gismo that makes the Vantage transform from a mild-mannered cruiser on the road to a beast of on-track performance, and back again in just a fraction of a second.

Of note, Aston Martin Manila says that it will only discuss about the pricing (plus bespoke options) of the all-new Vantage by request to interested buyers.

Photos by Aston Martin Manila Press and Paolo Lesaca

About the Author

Randolph de Leon
Randy is a person with disability (PWD), a partially-blinded person with only his left eye functioning. Since childhood, the automobile has always been his passion, and is able to express it through photography and most recently, through writing as well. Outside the motoring beat, Randy spends time manning the media aspect of his business which he co-founded with his sister/college classmate. It's called Dragonlight Wellness and Solutions, a multi-business venture centering on improving peoples' lives through earning.