Aston Martin has unveiled the next evolution of its beloved Vantage line: the Vantage S, a nameplate that carries both heritage and high expectations. As the most performance-focused Vantage in the brand’s current lineup, the Vantage S doesn’t simply add horsepower or flashier styling – it represents a recalibration of Aston Martin’s sports car ethos, blending extreme dynamic precision with unmistakable luxury.
A Legacy of ‘S’
The Vantage S arrives as the spiritual successor to previous ‘S’ models, such as the acclaimed V8 Vantage S and Vanquish S, continuing Aston Martin’s tradition of reserving the ‘S’ badge for more focused, performance-driven variants. This iteration honors that legacy while pushing well beyond it.
According to Aston Martin CEO Adrian Hallmark, the aim was to surpass the already-praised driving thrills of the current Vantage. The result is not just a more capable car, but one that redefines expectations in the front-engine, ultra-luxury sports car space.
Power and Precision
At the heart of the Vantage S is an upgraded version of Aston Martin’s 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine, now delivering 680PS at 6000rpm and a mighty 800Nm of torque across a wide rev range. These improvements shave tenths off the sprint times, with 0–60mph in just 3.3 seconds, and maintain a top speed of 202mph.
However, this isn’t just about brute force. The power is managed through carefully recalibrated throttle mapping and an updated launch control system, ensuring the car remains poised and responsive. A refined pedal feel matched to drive modes enhances engagement, letting drivers truly feel the engine’s character shift with each setting.
Chassis and Ride: Engineering Excellence
Where the Vantage S truly distinguishes itself is in its chassis tuning. Aston Martin has made extensive updates to the suspension hardware, powertrain mounts, and control software to increase agility while maintaining composure. Changes include software calibration to the Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, direct rear subframe mounting for improved steering feel, and a 10% reduction in transmission mount stiffness to enhance ride refinement.
The result? Sharper turn-in, increased grip, and a greater sense of balance in corners – without sacrificing daily usability. The Vantage S delivers a sense of fluidity on the road, responding intuitively to driver inputs, yet remains civilised enough for long-distance drives. It’s a rare balance that few cars in this class achieve.
Aerodynamics and Exterior Design
Visually, the Vantage S communicates its intent with subtle yet effective enhancements. A new full-width rear spoiler adds both aesthetic drama and functional downforce, increasing rear grip by 44kg at Vmax and contributing to an overall 111kg of downforce. Up front, centrally mounted bonnet blades in gloss black or carbon fibre aid cooling and lend the car a more assertive nose.
Badging is discreet, with hand-crafted red enamel ‘S’ emblems on the fenders – elegant yet meaningful to those in the know. Even the 21″ Y-spoke wheels, optional in satin black with red graphics, tie into the car’s performance narrative with a visual pop that hints at racing pedigree.
Interior: Focused Luxury
Inside, the Vantage S maintains Aston Martin’s high standards of luxury while infusing a more purposeful, motorsport-inspired atmosphere. The standard Accelerate interior combines Alcantara® and leather with carbon fibre trim, while optional Inspire Sport packages offer semi-aniline leather in striking monotone or duotone combinations.
The craftsmanship is as exacting as ever – consider the embroidered ‘S’ logos, each one stitched using over 16 metres of thread and 2,500 stitches. Even the final inspection plaque in the engine bay bears the ‘S’ insignia, a nod to the level of detail expected from a car in this category.
An optional anodised drive mode rotary – available in red or silver – becomes a focal point in the cabin, visually linking to other interior details like seatbelts, contrast stitching, and headrest embroidery. Every element of the Vantage S feels curated for a driver who values both speed and style.
A Global Stage Debut
Fittingly, the Vantage S made its global dynamic debut at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, a venue that celebrates both heritage and high-performance. Charging up the iconic hill climb, the Vantage S showcased not just raw numbers, but its composure and precision under pressure – a live demonstration of everything that sets it apart.
Final Thoughts
The Aston Martin Vantage S is not a simple mid-cycle refresh or cosmetic upgrade – it’s a complete reimagining of what the Vantage can be. From its surgically precise handling to its thoughtfully refined interior, it offers a driving experience that is both emotionally charged and technically accomplished.
It doesn’t just go faster – it feels more alive. With production underway and first deliveries expected in Q4 2025, the Vantage S stands as a confident statement from Aston Martin: that performance, elegance, and craftsmanship are not mutually exclusive, but deeply intertwined.
