Akmal Azhar
Open-Top Grand Touring Elegance
The Aston Martin Vanquish Volante is the convertible version of Aston’s high-performance grand tourer, offering a stunning combination of performance, style, and luxury. Starting at £361,000, this open-top Super GT transforms every drive into an occasion, with the roof down enhancing both the sense of space and the drama of the experience.
Powerful Twin-Turbo V12 Performance
Under the bonnet lies a new twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre V12 engine, delivering a formidable 824 bhp and 738 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes just 3.3 seconds, and top speed reaches an impressive 214 mph. The engine sound ranges from whisper-quiet in cruising mode to a fierce V12 howl when pushed, embodying the best of both worlds.
Improved Chassis and Dynamic Handling
The Vanquish Volante’s structure boasts a 13% increase in torsional rigidity over its predecessor, thanks to chassis reinforcement and revised suspension. Despite gaining around 95 kg in convertible form, the car retains its agility, with responsive steering and a balanced ride. The GT mode softens the setup for comfort, while still keeping the performance edge sharp.
Sculpted Design and Roof Integration
Visually, the Volante stays faithful to Aston’s design language, with an elegant profile even with the roof folded.
The fabric roof integrates seamlessly into the rear bodywork, preserving the car’s proportions. Designed under Marek Reichman’s guidance, it retains the iconic stance and poise expected from a flagship Aston.
Bespoke Interior Craftsmanship
Inside, the cabin is a feast of luxurious materials and classic Aston design. While influenced by the DB12 and Vantage, it sticks to physical controls and rotary dials, offering tactile engagement. With over 40 paint options and extensive Q division personalization, each Volante can reflect its owner’s taste in meticulous detail.
Everyday Driveability Meets Exotic Presence
Despite its exotic flair, the Vanquish Volante is not an impractical machine. With decent visibility, manageable dimensions for a GT, and a quiet cabin when the roof is up, it’s suited for daily use. However, it remains a thirsty V12 with the size and weight to match its performance aspirations.
Limited Production and Collector Appeal
Aston Martin will build just 1,000 Vanquish models annually, with around 400 of them in Volante form. This exclusivity ensures the car remains a desirable and rare collector’s item, especially as the industry transitions toward electrification.
Final Verdict: Emotion Over Logic
The Vanquish Volante is an emotional purchase. It may not make perfect sense in today’s world of hybrids and EVs, but it never tries to. For enthusiasts who crave an immersive, analog, high-performance experience, this car delivers a final flourish of grand touring romance.
Yusri Ng
Zakirin
