Aston Martin Vanquish S Coupe: 2026 Super GT Review

The Aston Martin Vanquish S Coupe stands as a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to naturally aspirated V12 excellence in an era dominated by turbocharged rivals. This super GT blends ferocious performance, striking design, and opulent interiors into a package that demands attention on both open roads and winding backroads. With updates enhancing its already formidable capabilities, the Vanquish S elevates the grand tourer experience to new heights.

Powertrain Mastery: The Iconic 6.0-Liter V12

At the core of the Vanquish S lies Aston Martin’s legendary 5.9-liter (often rounded to 6.0-liter) naturally aspirated V12 engine, tuned to deliver 580 horsepower at 7,000 rpm in most markets, with European specs reaching 595 hp. This power bump comes from a freer-flowing intake system, adding 12 hp over the standard Vanquish while maintaining 465 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm. Unlike turbocharged competitors like the DB11, this engine thrives on high revs, peaking right at its 7,000-rpm redline—350 rpm higher than before.

The V12 ignites with a leonine roar, evolving into a symphony of yowls and near-screams as revs climb. It’s loud, characterful, and unapologetically analog, shifting tones with load and rpm for an immersive driving experience. Paired with a retuned ZF eight-speed automatic Touchtronic III transmission, shifts are sharper and more aggressive, especially in Sport mode, while remaining smooth in daily driving. Launch control shaves the 0-62 mph sprint to 3.5 seconds—a 0.3-second improvement—and top speed holds at 201 mph.

Throttle response is instantaneous, free from turbo lag, making the Vanquish S feel alive from idle. Low-rpm pull is strong, but true fury unleashes above 3,500 rpm, surging to the limiter with relentless pull. This setup rewards driver involvement, ideal for autobahns or spirited canyon runs.

Chassis and Handling: Agile Giant

Despite its grand tourer proportions, the Vanquish S surprises with agile dynamics. An all-carbon-fiber body reduces weight and boosts rigidity, enhancing off-the-line snap and cornering poise. At over 1,700 kg, it feels substantial, but brilliantly judged damping minimizes body roll, while high grip levels from wide tires and precise steering inspire confidence.

Changes of direction are acute and rapid, with well-weighted steering providing excellent feedback. Suspension modes via steering wheel buttons adjust firmness on the fly, balancing comfort for long hauls with sharpness in Sport mode. It’s amazingly fast yet easy to drive, humbling lesser cars on twisty roads.

This table highlights key upgrades, positioning the S as a ‘super GT’ sharper than the DB11 in driver engagement.

Exterior Design: Sculpted Elegance

The Vanquish S Coupe captivates with flowing lines, a long hood, and aggressive stance. Carbon-fiber panels not only lighten the load but accentuate curves, from the domed bonnet to the seamlessly integrated rear spoiler. LED headlights pierce the night, while quad exhausts hint at the V12’s fury. It’s a head-turner, drawing thumbs-up and stares wherever it goes.

• Bold proportions: 2-door coupe with tailgate for practicality.
• Aero enhancements: Revised intakes and diffuser for better flow.
• Wheel options: 20- or 21-inch alloys shod in performance rubber.

Available in stunning hues, it molds perfectly to highways or arriving at Monaco’s casinos.

Interior Refinement: Luxury Meets Simplicity

Step inside to hand-finished leather, metal, and wood, creating an elegant cocoon. The cabin prioritizes artistry over gadgetry, with a counterclockwise-spinning tachometer nodding to Aston heritage. Seats are supportive sports buckets, comfortable for two over distances, with space for adults in back on short jaunts.

Infotainment has upgraded to a user-friendly screen with navigation, color mapping, and backup camera—leaps from prior systems. No adaptive cruise or blind-spot aids, keeping focus on driving, James Bond-style. Climate control, premium audio, and tactile switches enhance the ambiance.

Driving Experience: GT Comfort with Supercar Edge

In GT mode, the Vanquish S glides effortlessly, suspension soaking bumps while the V12 hums. Switch to Sport for amplified exhaust, firmer ride, and rapid shifts—perfect for pushing limits. It’s stable at triple-digit speeds, responsive in corners, and thrillingly noisy.

Consumer ratings praise performance (4.5/5) and value (5/5), though comfort scores 3.5/5 due to firm ride. Ideal for European tours: autoroutes by day, tree-lined B-roads by dusk.

Pricing and Ownership

Starting at around £199,950 for the coupe ($300,000+ new in 2018), it’s a premium proposition. Volante adds £12,000. Running costs suit enthusiasts: premium fuel, high insurance, but reliability scores 4.8/5. Maintenance via Aston specialists ensures longevity.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Exhilarating V12 soundtrack and response; agile handling; stunning looks; improved tech.
• Cons: Lacks modern driver aids; heavy feel; high price.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the Vanquish S different from the DB11?

The S retains a naturally aspirated V12 for pure response, contrasting the DB11’s turbo V12, with sharper dynamics.

Is the Vanquish S comfortable for long trips?

Yes, GT tuning provides compliance, though Sport mode firms it up.

How reliable is it?

Owners rate it 4.8/5, with strong build quality.

What’s the fuel economy?

Expect 15-20 mpg combined, thirstier under hard use.

Can it seat four?

Two sports seats up front; usable rear for short trips.

Why Choose the Vanquish S in 2026?

As turbo V12s fade, the Vanquish S remains a celebration of analog thrills. Its carbon upgrades, rev-happy engine, and poised chassis make it a collector’s gem and driver’s delight.