KUALA LUMPUR: The new generation Aston Martin Vantage, first announced in February, is launched in Malaysia today.
It is priced from RM2.37mil (includes taxes and duties, excluding options and customisations). The price includes a three-year factory warranty, which customers can opt to extend to 20 years of coverage.
The display car is a prototype and is a near-production ready car, fitted with some optional items. It has been on a tour of right-hand-drive markets around the world, and had recently been showcased in Singapore. It will make Bangkok its next stop before returning to the UK.
According to Aston Martin, this is the fastest Vantage model in the company's 74-year history, blending raw power and sharp handling with a balanced front-engine, rear-wheel-drive chassis.
Powered by a hand-built, re-engineered 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, the two-seat Vantage reaches new performance heights with 656hp and 800 Nm of torque.
Extensive modifications, including new cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling capacity, deliver a 30% power increase and 15% more torque compared to its predecessor.
Mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, the V8 engine propels the new Vantage from 0 to 100kph in just 3.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 325kph.
A new Launch Control system, integrated with the powertrain, transmission, and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), ensures optimised acceleration by managing wheel slip through the E-Diff, ESP, and engine torque management.
The Adjustable Traction Control (ATC) system allows drivers to fine-tune wheel slip, enabling precise throttle control or full traction control off mode.
To handle the increased thermal load, Aston Martin has redesigned the engine cooling system. The charge cooler circuit now includes an additional low-temperature radiator, with two auxiliary coolers added to the central main radiator for improved thermal capacity. An auxiliary outboard engine oil cooler with twice the surface area of its predecessor also improves thermal management.
The new Vantage features Aston Martin’s latest-generation bonded aluminum construction, offering enhanced dynamics through increased underbody stiffening components.
Front body cross member and front engine cross brace optimisations give the Vantage a stiffer front end, while a 29% increase in rear stiffness improves cornering load. New intelligent adaptive dampers offer a 500% bandwidth increase in force distribution, allowing Aston Martin engineers to refine the Vantage’s dynamics to the keenest edge.
Steering response is improved via the non-isolated Electronic Power Assisted Steering system (EPAS) and bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tyres.
The tyres, sized 275/35 R21 front and 325/30 R21 rear, are tailored to the Vantage's dynamic profile, offering sharp response, high grip levels, and progressive breakaway characteristics.
Standard 21-inch forged alloy five-spoke wheels come in various designs and colours, shrouding 400mm front and 360mm rear drilled brake discs.
Optional carbon ceramic brakes deliver enhanced braking performance, reducing brake fade and unsprung weight by 27 kg.
The new Vantage's body is 30 mm wider than its predecessor, featuring a 38% larger grille for improved airflow and cooling. Matrix LED headlamps with integrated DRLs and a new side strake complete the dramatic front-end design.
Inside, the new Vantage boasts ultra-luxury finishes and state-of-the-art technology.
Hand-stitched Bridge of Weir leather and a driver-focused ergonomic layout create a comfortable yet functional cabin. A 10.25-inch Pure Black touchscreen with multi-finger gesture control leads the digital cockpit, supported by an embedded e-SIM for always-on connectivity.
The infotainment system includes a standard 390W 11-speaker setup or an optional 1,170W Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system.
Customisation is provided through Q by Aston Martin, allowing buyers to personalise their sports car.
"Aston Martin Vantage has developed a reputation as one of the most iconic nameplates in sports car history," said Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur general manager Chris Chia.
"We are thrilled to give it a home here in Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur."
Wearnes Quest Sdn Bhd is the official distributor of Aston Martin in Malaysia. It is a subsidiary of Singapore-based Wearnes Automotive Pte Ltd.
Wearnes regional director Khoo Seng Kiong (left) and Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur general manager Chris Chia.
The titanium umbrella in the boot is a RM3,000 option.
