Aston Reveals New V12 Vantage S

The latest version of Aston's two-seat sportscar gets 55 more horsepower, a sequential transmission and a 205mph top speed. 

Enthusiasts were suitably enthused when Aston Martin took its smallest model and slotted in its largest engine to create the V12 Vantage in 2007. A little less so when Aston informed its dealers to stop taking orders on the two-seat pocket rocket, but now we know why. And it’s for a good reason. After a couple of teasers to keep us on our toes, Aston Martin has officially revealed the new V12 Vantage S, packing the latest version of Aston’s ubiquitous 6.0-liter V12 from the new Vanquish.

The 565-horsepower unit represents a significant bump from the previous 510hp version. It's mated to a new seven-speed sequential transmission instead of the six-speed manual, cutting 25 kg off the car’s curb weight. It’s also got three-stage adaptive damping, a new steering system and a Sport mode to tighten up throttle response, shifting times and the exhaust note. The new V12 Vantage S is visually distinguished by a new carbon-fiber grille inspired by the CC100 Speedster concept, ten-spoke alloys, black roof and rear panel. Inside there’s also new seats, an optional carbon-fiber trim package.

While Aston hasn’t revealed revised pricing or complete performance stats, it has revealed that the 55-horse boost raises the top speed from 190 mph up to 205. Sounds like a good start to us, but don't take our word for it: check it out yourself in the minute-long clip below.