Aston Martin Vanquish S: 2025 Complete Super GT Review

The Aston Martin Vanquish S stands as a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to crafting vehicles that blend breathtaking performance with unparalleled luxury. This model elevates the standard Vanquish with subtle yet impactful upgrades, delivering a driving experience that captivates enthusiasts and collectors alike. Priced around £200,000 for the coupe, it promises 0-62mph in just 3.5 seconds and a top speed exceeding 200mph, all powered by a naturally aspirated V12 engine that few rivals can match.

Powertrain Mastery: The Heart of the Beast

At the core of the Vanquish S lies its 5.9-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine, a powerhouse producing 595bhp in European specification. This represents a modest increase over the standard model’s 568bhp, achieved through a freer-breathing intake manifold and a revised stainless steel exhaust system. The result is a surge of power that builds progressively, peaking near the 7,000rpm redline, creating an exhilarating rush during high-rev gear changes.

Unlike turbocharged competitors, this engine delivers linear throttle response without lag, making it ideal for both spirited road drives and long-distance cruising. Torque remains at 465lb ft, ensuring strong low-end pull, while the retuned ZF eight-speed automatic transmission shifts more aggressively in sport modes, enhancing the overall dynamism. Aston Martin positions this as the final hurrah for their iconic V12, a nod to traditional engineering in an era dominated by forced induction.

• Key Engine Specs: 5.9-litre V12, 595bhp, 465lb ft torque, 0-62mph in 3.5s, 201mph top speed.
• Exhaust note: A symphonic roar that evolves from a leonine snarl to a high-pitched scream under load.
• Transmission: 8-speed ZF auto with paddle shifters and launch control for track-like acceleration.

Chassis and Handling Refinements

Aston Martin’s engineers, led by handling expert Matt Becker, have fine-tuned the Vanquish S’s chassis for sharper responses without sacrificing grand tourer comfort. Spring rates increased by 10%, paired with retuned adaptive dampers and revised anti-roll bar bushes, result in better body control and reduced roll during cornering. The hydraulic steering gains weight and precision, providing feedback that inspires confidence on winding roads.

Despite its 1,700kg-plus curb weight—bolstered by carbonfibre panels—the car feels nimble. Rear grip from 305-section tyres handles the V12’s output admirably, with any slip predictable and progressive. Aerodynamic tweaks minimize front-end lift at high speeds, enhancing stability. In Sport mode, adaptive Bilstein dampers absorb imperfections while maintaining composure over broken surfaces, making it a versatile performer for back roads or highways.

Design and Aerodynamics: Timeless Elegance

The Vanquish S retains Aston Martin’s signature styling—flowing lines, aggressive haunches, and a wide stance that exude presence. Subtle ‘S’ badging and quad exhausts distinguish it, while carbonfibre elements reduce weight without altering the iconic silhouette. Aerodynamic enhancements, including optimized underbody panels, cut lift by over 100 pounds at 150mph, improving high-speed poise.

Available as a coupe or Volante convertible, it measures over 4.7 meters long, emphasizing its GT credentials. The Volante adds open-air thrill with a power-folding fabric roof, maintaining structural rigidity for convertible performance.

Interior Luxury and Technology

Step inside the Vanquish S, and you’re enveloped in hand-stitched leather, Alcantara, and polished metal accents—a cabin befitting James Bond. The layout prioritizes driver focus, with a squared-off steering wheel (a divisive choice) and intuitive controls. However, its VH platform shows age: no adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring, or emergency braking systems found in rivals.

Upgrades include a modernized infotainment system replacing the outdated unit, offering decent navigation and connectivity. Audio from a premium Bang & Olufsen setup immerses passengers in crystal-clear sound. Rear seats accommodate adults for short trips, though luggage space suits weekend getaways.

• Seating: 2+2 configuration with heated/ventilated fronts.
• Infotainment: Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Build quality: Opulent materials, though tech lags behind contemporaries.

Performance on Road and Track

On public roads, the Vanquish S excels as a super GT. Its V12 thrives in mid-range pulls, overtaking with effortless authority. In dynamic testing, it hustles corners with poise, the electronic limited-slip differential (in newer iterations) aiding turn-in. Cold, slippery conditions highlight traction advantages over turbo rivals, as natural aspiration avoids torque steer.

Track sessions reveal limits: the eight-speed box isn’t the quickest-shifting, and weight tells in tight sectors. Yet, for a 4.7m GT, lap times impress, prioritizing enjoyment over outright speed. Fuel economy hovers around 20mpg combined—acceptable for its class.

Pricing, Rivals, and Ownership

Starting at £199,950, the Vanquish S undercuts Ferrari 812 Superfast but matches Lamborghini Aventador in exclusivity. Against the DB11, it offers superior power and drama, justifying the premium as a ‘super GT’. Running costs reflect supercar status: expect high insurance and maintenance, though Aston’s bonded warranty mitigates risks.

Rivals like Porsche 911 Turbo S offer all-wheel drive and tech, but lack V12 theatre. For pure GT, Bentley Continental GT provides comfort, sans raw edge.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Iconic V12 symphony, balanced handling, luxurious interior, 200mph capability.
• Cons: Dated driver aids, heavy weight, premium fuel thirst.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Vanquish S faster than the DB11?

Yes, with 3.5s 0-62mph versus DB11’s 3.9s, plus higher top speed.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Around 20mpg combined; real-world varies with driving style.

Does it have modern safety features?

Basic suite; lacks advanced aids like AEB or adaptive cruise.

Volante vs Coupe?

Volante adds convertible fun at extra cost, similar performance.

Is it worth the price over used models?

For new V12 purity, yes; used offer value but higher maintenance.

Driving Verdict

The Aston Martin Vanquish S is a celebration of analog supercar joy in a digital world. It doesn’t chase lap records but delivers soul-stirring drives, from autobahn blasts to coastal cruises. For those valuing heritage and V12 magic, it’s unmatched.