Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur earlier today officially launched the new Aston Martin Vantage in Malaysia. This is latest generation of Aston Martin's sports car and it is the fastest Vantage to ever roll out of the Gaydon facilities to date. The new Vantage combines a finely-tuned front-engine with a race honed rear-wheel drive chassis to achieve what Aston Martin believes is the perfect balance of power and handling. Of course, this is until they come up with another Vantage a few years from now. But, aside from engine performance and handling, one must always consider the fact that sometimes, we want an Aston for how it looks and the new Vantage is a looker. .For a mere RM2,370 million with taxes, and a 3 year factory warranty which is able to be extended up to two decades, it could be a value buy, relatively speaking, of a lifetime.
The launch of the new Vantage here comes after one of the most dynamic periods in the 111-year history of Aston Martin. The winged brand is currently putting its mark in the motorsports following the 2023 Formula One® season. That pinnacle in motorsports is also joined by their presence in international GT racing, where Vantage has a rich history as the most successful endurance GT racer, and a front-line challenger in the World Endurance Championship, with the Valkyrie AMR aiming for Le Mans 24 Hours glory in 2025. So the new Vantage was built with racing in mind.
As for the heritage aspect of the Vantage moniker, the Aston Martin Vantage can be traced back to 1950, when the Vantage name was first used to denote an uprated engine package for the race-proven DB2. The first time Vantage was applied as a model designation was in 1964, when a high-performance Vantage-badged version of the DB5 became the new flagship of the range. A standalone Vantage model was introduced in the early 1970s, from which point the nameplate has played an increasingly prominent role in Aston Martin’s model line-up. That 1970s to the 1990s model was the one that I grew up reading about in British motoring magazines and aside from the James Bond factor, the Vantage was the Aston that spoke to me personally. It is good to see that the Vantage continues to this day.
“From Silverstone to Sepang, the Aston Martin Vantage has developed a reputation as one of the most iconic nameplates in sports car history. The new Vantage epitomises the most dynamic period in Aston Martin’s 111-year history, deriving track-proven racing DNA from the brand’s exploits on the most competitive motorsports grids in the world. Bolstered by state-of-the-art technology and sophistication, the unique Vantage formula befits first-time Aston Martin owners and long-time brand enthusiasts alike. We are extremely thrilled to give it a home here in Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur,” said Mr. Chris Chia Kok How, General Manager of Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur.
As for the heritage aspect of the Vantage moniker, the Aston Martin Vantage can be traced back to 1950, when the Vantage name was first used to denote an uprated engine package for the race-proven DB2. The first time Vantage was applied as a model designation was in 1964, when a high-performance Vantage-badged version of the DB5 became the new flagship of the range. A standalone Vantage model was introduced in the early 1970s, from which point the nameplate has played an increasingly prominent role in Aston Martin’s model line-up. That 1970s to the 1990s model was the one that I grew up reading about in British motoring magazines and aside from the James Bond factor, the Vantage was the Aston that spoke to me personally. It is good to see that the Vantage continues to this day.
“From Silverstone to Sepang, the Aston Martin Vantage has developed a reputation as one of the most iconic nameplates in sports car history. The new Vantage epitomises the most dynamic period in Aston Martin’s 111-year history, deriving track-proven racing DNA from the brand’s exploits on the most competitive motorsports grids in the world. Bolstered by state-of-the-art technology and sophistication, the unique Vantage formula befits first-time Aston Martin owners and long-time brand enthusiasts alike. We are extremely thrilled to give it a home here in Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur,” said Mr. Chris Chia Kok How, General Manager of Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur.
The new Vantage features a heavily reworked, hand-built 4.0-litre Twin-Turbo V8 engine, which makes 665PS and a massive 800Nm of torque. Extensive tuning has been done to the base engine (a Mercedes-AMG engine) by Aston Martin engineers, the adoption of modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling have produced the most substantial improvements in power and torque for a new Vantage in comparison to its successor, with the increases of 155PS and 115Nm equating to gains of 30% and 15% respectively. Basically the base engine is reworked to suit the chassis and what the engineers at Aston Martin want the car to perform.
The engine is coupled to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, the V8 engine that is geared to do the 100km/h dash in just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 325km/h. Standing start acceleration has been perfected with the introduction of a new Launch Control system. Fully integrated with the powertrain, transmission and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), when engaged by the driver, Launch Control allows the car to deploy as much torque as conditions allow, using the E-Diff, ESP slip control and engine torque management to keep wheel slip in the optimal range throughout the launch. The driver can also dial-in the precise amount of slip they desire during the launch by making changes via the Adjustable Traction Control (ATC) system – reducing or increasing the amount of controlled wheelspin permitted by the Launch Control System or allowing themselves full throttle control by setting the ATC to Traction Control (TC) Off.
However, Aston Martin has stated that by pushing out some additional engine performance has increased thermal load, which makes it necessary for the engine cooling system to be redesigned so that the engine can ensure stable intake air temperatures are achieved in all conditions, an additional low temperature radiator has been fitted to the charge cooler water circuit, with a further two auxiliary coolers added to the existing central main radiator to further increase thermal capacity. The oil system has also benefitted from an auxiliary outboard engine oil cooler boasting twice the surface area of its predecessor. Thermal airflow has also been boosted with a 50% increase in the volume of cold air reaching the radiators.
The new Aston Martin Vantage is built around Aston Martin’s latest generation bonded aluminium construction. Its highly evolved aluminium body structure delivers more focused and engaging dynamics thanks to additional underbody stiffening components for increased overall torsional rigidity. Optimisations to the front body cross member and front engine cross brace give the Vantage a stiffer and sharper front end while the rear has benefited from a 29% increase in stiffness under cornering load due to increased lateral strengthening between the rear suspension towers.
Improved mounting stiffness for the dampers on both ends of the vehicle translate to tangible gains in precision, handling balance and driver feedback, together with an overall uplift in refinement. This feeling of immediacy, control and connection is further boosted by new intelligent adaptive dampers. With a 500% increase in bandwidth of force distribution over previous generation hardware these state-of-the-art dampers have an larger range of control and speed of response, which has allowed Aston Martin’s vehicle attributes engineers to sharpen the Vantage’s dynamics to their keenest possible edge.
Precise calibration of the dampers by the engineers have given the Vantage an inherently sporty feel while leaving room to introduce progressive tighter body control as the driver explores the range of dynamic modes. Combined with the E-Diff and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), the Vantage has the capability to adapt from the demands of a challenging winding mountainous roads to wide-open race tracks at the push of a button and twist of a switch.
Aston Martin engineers have given obsessive attention to the Vantage’s Electronic Power Assisted Steering system (EPAS). The fitment of a non-isolated steering column means steering inputs from the driver are quick and direct, while the flow of information from the road is granular in detail and pleasingly tactile. Steering response and front-end grip has been further enhanced by ‘AML’ coded Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tyres made specifically for the Vantage. Measuring 275/35 R21 (103Y) front and 325/30 R21 (108Y) rear, they feature a bespoke compound and have been tuned by the Aston Martin dynamics team to suit the super-sharp response, high grip levels and progressive breakaway characteristics expected from the most driver-focused model in the Aston Martin range.
The Aston Martin Vantage features 21” forged alloy Five-Spoke wheels as standard, with optional Multi-Spoke and Y-Spoke designs that are offered in a range of colours and finishes, including Satin Bronze, first introduced on the DB12. The wheels shroud cast-iron 400mm front discs and 360mm rear discs with drilled faces for improved heat management and fade resistance. Buyers can upgrade these to Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB) to enjoy increased braking performance and reduced brake fade at temperatures of up to 800 °C, alongside a reduction of 27kg in unsprung weight for improved steering response.
The muscular frame of the new Vantage measures 30mm wider than its predecessor, with a completely redesigned front-end featuring a 38% larger recontoured veined grille aperture, offering 29% increase in mass airflow for additional cooling. Further cooling intakes set into the bumper either side of the grille sharpen the front-end’s features, while the new integrated splitter, with a wider and lower stance, adds drama as well as aerodynamic function, providing high speed stability through lift reduction. This distinctive front-end treatment is completed by all-new Matrix LED headlamp design with integrated DRLs, featuring Aston Martin’s new light signature.
The new Vantage sees a return of the iconic Aston Martin side strakes on each side, which now forms the sharp focal point of revised vents in each flank. Frameless door mirrors and presenting door handles are also new to Vantage, while a wider rear bumper incorporating side vents and larger diameter quad exhaust tailpipes ensure the Vantage looks as dramatic from the rear as it does from the front.
Inside the new generation Vantage is a modern look at ultra-luxury defined by sleek architectural lines, the finest materials, and state-of-the-art connected technology. Supple, aromatic hand-stitched Bridge of Weir leather hides create a cosseting, comfortable space, but the driving position, with its super-supportive sports seats and driver-focused ergonomics add an effortless functionality that underpins the opulence and adds to the enjoyment of every journey.
The digital-forward cockpit is a fully-integrated multi-screen system which features a 10.25-inch Pure Black touchscreen with multi-finger gesture control. Equipped with an embedded e-SIM, the Vantage’s infotainment system is built around online connectivity and an all-new companion Aston Martin app that enables Vantage owners to monitor, locate and protect their vehicle, all at their fingertips. Full-time connectivity empowers the navigation system in the Vantage with real-time features. However, Wireless Apple CarPlay remains available for drivers who prefer to use navigation apps via their mobile device.
One notable aspect of the infotainment system and the user interface of this new range of Aston Martin is that it has been designed by Aston Martin and unlike previous generations which took many of the systems from Mercedes-AMG. This new Vantage has everything Aston Martin aside from the engine. The ECU, TCU, infotainment switchgear are all Aston Martin. Kind of like how Pagani takes the Mercedes-AMG engine in their cars and make it their own. You take a good base, and make it yours.
The infotainment system in the new Vantage outputs crisp audio through a standard 390W 11-speaker audio system with QuantumLogic® surround sound processing for an immersive soundscape. However, true audiophiles will delight in the optional system developed with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Aluminium Double Dome tweeters and Continuum® midrange speakers give this 15-speaker, double amplified 1,170W surround sound system a balanced and accurate sound. Dedicated 3D headline speakers and a powerful subwoofer deliver a sound experience as dynamic and potent as the Vantage itself.
You can further customise the Vantage. It will extend beyond the extensive catalogue of optional accessories with Q by Aston Martin offers bespoke personalisation services limited only by the imagination. This allows Vantage owners to push their creative boundaries and commission a sports car that is not only iconic, but also uniquely theirs.
The new Aston Martin Vantage is now available for booking in Malaysia, with a starting price of RM2,370,000 excluding options and customisation. The retail price includes a three-year factory warranty, which customers can opt to extend to enjoy up to 20 years of coverage. This complements the Aston Martin ownership experience with vehicle lifetime protection for total peace of mind, subject to terms and conditions.
For more information about the new Aston Martin Vantage and other associated products and services, please contact Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur directly at +603 2163 1196 or head over to www.astonmartinkualalumpur.com.
The infotainment system in the new Vantage outputs crisp audio through a standard 390W 11-speaker audio system with QuantumLogic® surround sound processing for an immersive soundscape. However, true audiophiles will delight in the optional system developed with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Aluminium Double Dome tweeters and Continuum® midrange speakers give this 15-speaker, double amplified 1,170W surround sound system a balanced and accurate sound. Dedicated 3D headline speakers and a powerful subwoofer deliver a sound experience as dynamic and potent as the Vantage itself.
You can further customise the Vantage. It will extend beyond the extensive catalogue of optional accessories with Q by Aston Martin offers bespoke personalisation services limited only by the imagination. This allows Vantage owners to push their creative boundaries and commission a sports car that is not only iconic, but also uniquely theirs.
The new Aston Martin Vantage is now available for booking in Malaysia, with a starting price of RM2,370,000 excluding options and customisation. The retail price includes a three-year factory warranty, which customers can opt to extend to enjoy up to 20 years of coverage. This complements the Aston Martin ownership experience with vehicle lifetime protection for total peace of mind, subject to terms and conditions.
For more information about the new Aston Martin Vantage and other associated products and services, please contact Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur directly at +603 2163 1196 or head over to www.astonmartinkualalumpur.com.
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