Aston Martin unleashes Vantage S with 680PS and track-focused upgrades
New interior features blend luxury with bold sports styling
DUBAI: Aston Martin has officially revealed the Vantage S, the most performance-focused model in its acclaimed Vantage sports car line-up.
Building on the success of the standard Vantage, the Vantage S introduces heightened power, refined chassis dynamics, and aggressive new styling cues – solidifying its status at the peak of front-engine luxury sports car engineering.
This latest launch follows the unveiling of the DBX S and continues Aston Martin’s tradition of using the ‘S’ suffix for enhanced, high-performance derivatives. This lineage dates back to the 2004 Vanquish S and includes the celebrated V8 and V12 Vantage S models from the early 2010s.
Engine
Under the bonnet lies an upgraded 4.0-litre V8 Twin-Turbo engine producing a class-defining 680PS at 6000rpm, alongside 800Nm of torque delivered between 3000 and 6000rpm. This increase in output enables a 0–60mph time of just 3.3 seconds, with 0–124mph (200km/h) achieved in 10.1 seconds. The top speed remains an impressive 202mph.
To complement the added power, Aston Martin engineers have fine-tuned throttle pedal calibration, resulting in more precise feedback and a heightened sense of control across all Drive Modes. Launch Control optimisation also plays a role in achieving the vehicle’s improved acceleration metrics.
Chassis upgrades
Refinements go beyond the engine. The Vantage S benefits from a comprehensive suite of chassis and suspension upgrades. Modifications to the Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers deliver increased front-end response, while reduced stiffness in the rear spring aids provide improved ride quality, particularly at low speeds.
In a bid to increase refinement without compromising sportiness, the transmission mount stiffness has been reduced by 10%. This controls the powertrain’s interaction with the chassis and body, resulting in a more composed driving experience.
A key enhancement is the direct mounting of the rear subframe to the body – eliminating rubber bushes to offer a more direct steering feel. Suspension geometry changes, including refined camber, toe, and caster settings, sharpen dynamic balance and elevate front-end grip, ensuring the car maintains poise through high-speed corners.
Aerodynamic styling
Visually, the Vantage S projects its performance intent through a series of assertive design features. At the front, centrally mounted bonnet blades – available in gloss black or 2x2 twill carbon fibre – offer not only aesthetic appeal but functional engine cooling.
The rear is dominated by a new full-width decklid spoiler, boosting rear downforce by 44kg at top speed. This, combined with underbody changes such as a revised front airdam and venturi vanes, contributes to a total of 111kg of downforce at Vmax. Notably, the aerodynamic balance has been shifted forward to support aggressive turn-in and stable high-speed cornering.
Distinctive ‘S’ badging on the front fenders adds a subtle nod to the car’s elite status. Handcrafted from brass and infilled with red glass enamel, each emblem is finished in bright or dark chrome depending on the customer’s spec.
The Vantage S is also available with bespoke 21" Y-spoke wheels in satin black, finished with a red wheel graphic and paired with bronze-painted brake callipers. This ties into the red highlights seen throughout the vehicle’s design.
Interior craftsmanship
Inside the cabin, the Vantage S blends aggressive styling with handcrafted luxury. The standard ‘Accelerate’ interior trim features a bespoke mix of Alcantara and leather, complete with carbon fibre inlays. Seating is adorned with embroidered ‘S’ logos – each created with over 16 metres of thread and nearly 2,500 stitches—highlighting Aston Martin’s dedication to craftsmanship.
The interior design offers various options, including a standout anodised drive mode rotary available in red or silver. This metal control is colour-matched to the seatbelts, contrast stitching, and headrest embroidery for a unified cabin aesthetic.
For those seeking additional opulence, the Inspire Sport interior package provides semi-aniline leather or a combination of leather and Alcantara in monotone or duotone configurations. Diminishing chevron quilting and placed perforations add a dynamic visual element, suggesting movement and speed.
Additional luxury details include embossed or debossed Aston Martin wings on the headrests, achieved using an industry-first technique applying 1.5 tonnes of pressure and heat to sculpt the logo directly into the leather.
Complementing the interior details are ‘S’ logos on both the treadplates and the final inspection plaque under the bonnet – subtle reminders of the car’s special status.
Global debut and availability
The Vantage S will make its dynamic global debut at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it will participate in the iconic hill climb event. Held every July, the Goodwood Festival is one of the most prestigious motoring events on the global calendar, drawing enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.
Aston Martin has opened orders for the Vantage S in both Coupe and Roadster variants. First deliveries are scheduled to commence in Q4 2025. Positioned as the most capable and refined Vantage yet, the Vantage S is a bold statement of intent from the British marque.