2017 Aston Martin Vanquish S Volante: In-Depth Review

The 2017 Aston Martin Vanquish S Volante stands as a pinnacle achievement in the grand tourer category, merging breathtaking performance with unparalleled luxury in an open-top format. This convertible variant elevates the standard Vanquish experience through enhanced power outputs, refined chassis dynamics, and meticulous interior detailing, making it ideal for long-distance cruises or spirited drives.

Design and Exterior Styling

Aston Martin’s signature aesthetic shines through in the Vanquish S Volante, featuring clean, flowing lines that emphasize elegance over aggression. The iconic grille dominates the front fascia, flanked by slim LED headlights and a new carbon-fiber splitter that improves aerodynamics and reduces understeer. Unlike sharper rivals, this model’s understated curves and integrated rear spoiler create a timeless silhouette.

The Volante’s fabric roof retracts smoothly in 14 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph, preserving the sleek profile even when folded. Available in a spectrum of bespoke colors with options for 20-inch alloy wheels and quad exhaust tips, personalization extends to brake caliper hues and aero kits, ensuring each example feels unique.

Powertrain and Performance

At the heart lies a naturally aspirated 5.9-liter V12 engine, now boosted to 580 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque in the S model—up from the standard Vanquish’s 568 hp. Paired with an eight-speed ZF Touchtronic III automatic transmission, it propels the car from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 200 mph.

Launch control is standard, delivering explosive acceleration without turbo lag, while the exhaust system unleashes a symphony of rasps, crackles, and deep growls—particularly addictive in Sport mode. Power routes exclusively to the rear wheels, promoting playful dynamics on twisty roads.

Carbon-ceramic brakes provide confident stopping power, essential for such velocity.

Chassis and Handling Dynamics

Upgrades in the Vanquish S include a 10% stiffer spring rate, retuned Bilstein adaptive dampers, and revised steering geometry, resulting in sharper responses and reduced body roll. The double-wishbone suspension balances compliance for highways with tautness in corners, feeling compact despite its 3,850-pound curb weight.

Steering is precise and weighted ideally, encouraging precise line changes without nervousness. On winding canyon roads or European backroads, it exhibits massive grip, minimal understeer, and a playful rear end under power—playful yet composed. GT mode prioritizes comfort, while Sport+ sharpens throttle and exhaust for track-like engagement.

Luxury Interior and Comfort

Step inside, and premium leather envelops every surface, complemented by Alcantara headliners and wood veneers. The cabin exudes opulence with heated, power-adjustable seats offering memory settings and ample legroom for taller drivers—surprisingly accommodating for a 2+2 layout.

Standard amenities include dual-zone climate control, a 6.5-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and navigation, Bluetooth, and a 1,000-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system. Rear seats are vestigial but usable for short trips, or opt for parcel shelves in the coupe. Ergonomics falter with touch-sensitive controls that can be finicky, and storage is limited—a sports car trade-off.

• Key Interior Features:
• Full leather upholstery with contrast stitching
• Simulated-suede headliner
• 13-speaker premium sound system
• Navigation and Apple CarPlay integration
• Parking sensors and rearview camera

Convertible Experience and Practicality

The Volante’s power roof enhances the sensory thrill, allowing the V12’s roar to envelop occupants fully. Wind management is excellent, with minimal buffeting at highway speeds. Despite its performance bent, the ride remains supple, absorbing imperfections without harshness—perfect for cross-continental journeys.

Fuel economy lags at 16 mpg combined, reflecting its thirsty V12, and trunk space is modest at 5.3 cubic feet with the roof up. Maintenance costs are high, but the three-year/unlimited-mile warranty provides peace of mind.

Comparisons with Rivals

Against the Ferrari F12 or Lamborghini Aventador, the Vanquish S prioritizes GT usability over raw track prowess. The incoming DB11 offers similar power with turbo V12 refinement, but the Vanquish S’s naturally aspirated howl remains unmatched.

Safety and Technology Features

While not laden with modern driver aids, it includes stability control, ABS, traction control, and optional stolen vehicle tracking. Front and rear parking sensors aid maneuverability. The infotainment, though dated, functions reliably with knob controls.

Ownership Costs and Verdict

Starting at around $305,000, expect premiums for customizations. Resale holds strong among enthusiasts drawn to its V12 purity before turbo eras. Reliability is solid for a hand-built exotic, with owners praising its sensory overload.

In summary, the 2017 Vanquish S Volante excels as a super-GT: thunderous, luxurious, and engaging without sacrificing comfort. It’s a fitting swan song for Aston’s naturally aspirated V12 legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)