Aston Martin Virage: 490 Hp V12 Grand Tourer Review

The Aston Martin Virage stands as a testament to British automotive craftsmanship, bridging the gap between everyday luxury and high-performance thrill. Produced in the early 2010s, this grand tourer combines a hand-built ethos with cutting-edge engineering, offering drivers an intoxicating mix of power, poise, and prestige. With its 6.0-liter V12 heart and aluminum chassis, the Virage delivers acceleration that rivals supercars while maintaining composure on long journeys.

Engineering Excellence Under the Skin

At the core of the Virage lies Aston Martin’s bonded aluminum architecture, a platform shared with models like the DB9 and DBS, providing rigidity comparable to an aircraft carrier’s deck. This structure supports a perfect 50/50 weight distribution, achieved by mounting the V12 engine as far back as possible in the front-engine layout. The transaxle-mounted six-speed automatic transmission further enhances balance, sending power to the rear wheels with precision.

The naturally aspirated 6.0-liter V12 engine produces 490 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, positioning it neatly between the DB9’s 470 hp and the DBS’s 510 hp. Refinements to the powertrain include a shortened final drive ratio, sharpening acceleration without sacrificing top-end speed. Official figures claim 0-62 mph in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph, though real-world tests suggest 0-60 mph in around 4.5 seconds.

This table highlights how the Virage prioritizes balance and usability over outright sprint times, making it ideal for grand touring.

Design: Timeless Aggression

The Virage’s exterior evolves Aston Martin’s iconic language with subtle updates. A redesigned grille, front bumper, and LED-accented side strakes give it a more assertive stance, while the elongated hood and sculpted lines evoke classic DB models. The coupe’s sleek profile measures over 4.7 meters long, with a low roofline that promises aerodynamic efficiency.

Opt for the Volante convertible, and you get a power-folding fabric roof that operates in 18 seconds, even at speeds up to 30 mph. Structural integrity remains strong, with minimal flex or wind noise when closed; a standard wind deflector tames turbulence at higher speeds. Available in colors like Intense Blue or Jet Black, the Virage’s paintwork is applied in multiple layers for depth and protection.

• Key Design Features: Aggressive front fascia with larger air intakes for improved cooling.
• LED daytime running lights integrated into side strakes for modern flair.
• Quad exhaust tips emphasizing V12 presence.
• 20-inch alloy wheels wrapping massive brakes.

Cabin Craftsmanship: A Symphony of Luxury

Step inside, and the Virage envelops you in sumptuous materials: Bridge of Weir leather in seven hides, walnut veneers, aluminum trim, and carbon fiber accents. Every stitch and panel reflects 70 man-hours of hand labor per car, creating a tactile haven that engages all senses. The walnut-rimmed steering wheel and rotary dials for climate control add to the analog charm.

As a 2+2, it offers occasional rear seats, though practicality is limited—best for bags or small passengers. Front seats are supremely supportive with heating and memory functions. The infotainment, while dated by today’s standards, features a clear display for navigation and audio, paired with a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

“The interior’s festival of materials is beautifully designed and stitched, tantalizing to the eyes, fingertips, and even the olfactory sense.”

Driving Dynamics: Poise Meets Power

Behind the wheel, the Virage shines with communicative steering that provides precise feedback without being overly heavy. Grip from wide tires and adaptive dampers delivers impressive cornering prowess, with mild understeer as the default trait—ideal for varied conditions. The suspension’s control-arm setup and stiff chassis control body motions flawlessly, even on imperfect roads.

In GT mode, the ride is compliant for long hauls; switch to Sport, and responses sharpen dramatically. The V12’s torque floods in smoothly from low revs, accompanied by a glorious howl that builds to a crescendo. Braking is authoritative, with carbon-ceramic options available for track enthusiasts.

Owners praise the exhaust note and visual drama, calling it an “excellent car” after years of ownership. Videos highlight its well-judged steering feel, responsive even at modest speeds.

Virage vs. Rivals: Where It Excels

In a segment dominated by Ferrari 458 Italia, Mercedes SLS AMG, and Porsche 911 GT2 RS, the Virage trades peak power for usability. It’s torquey and smooth where rivals feel peaky, with superior ride quality. Against the Corvette ZR1, it offers exclusivity over raw speed.

• Strengths: Unmatched build quality and interior luxury.
• Trade-offs: Less outright acceleration than turbocharged foes.
• Ideal For: Drivers seeking V12 purity and all-weather grand touring.

Ownership Considerations

Priced around £140,000 new for the coupe (Volante £10,000 more), the Virage demanded a premium for its handmade allure. Maintenance suits deep-pocketed owners, with V12 servicing at specialist centers. Fuel economy hovers at 15-20 mpg combined, but the experience transcends numbers.

Today, used examples offer value, blending rarity with accessibility. Reliability is solid for Astons of the era, thanks to shared components with proven siblings.

Performance Specifications at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Aston Martin Virage faster than the DB9?

Yes, with 490 hp versus the DB9’s 470 hp, and a shorter final drive for better punch.

How does the Volante compare to the coupe?

The Volante adds open-air fun with minimal rigidity loss, though it costs £10,000 more.

What’s the Virage’s weight distribution?

A perfect 50/50, thanks to the rear-mounted transaxle.

Is the Virage suitable for daily driving?

Its refined ride and GT comfort make it viable, though V12 thirst limits efficiency.

How reliable is the Virage long-term?

Owners report excellence after years, with legendary craftsmanship.

Why the Virage Endures

The Virage captures Aston Martin’s soul: hand-built excess in a world of mass production. It’s not the fastest, but its blend of power, beauty, and feel creates addiction. For collectors and drivers alike, it remains a high-water mark of V12 grand touring.