In the world of stylish cars, Aston Martin ruled supremely from the mid-2000s till the 2010s. Not only were their cars gorgeous to look at, but they were also exciting to drive and listen to. But then the brand started to wane. Newer models like the DB11 and second-generation Vantage fell short of expectations, and the selection grew monotonous. However, it appears like Aston Martin is making a change, as seen by the new Vantage.
Quick Specs for the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage:
- Engine: Twin-Turbo 4.0-Liter V-8
- Transmission: Eight-speed Automatic
- Output: 656 Horsepower / 590 Pound-Feet
- 0-60 MPH: 3.5 Seconds
- Base Price / As Tested: $194,500 / $292,500
The New Vantage’s Evolution
The last Vantage appealed primarily because of its iconic winged badge on the hood. The new one still proudly sports that badge but now backs it up with a lot more substance. While the car is largely the same underneath with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter Mercedes-AMG V-8 Aston Martin has heavily reworked almost every component. The result? A dramatic transformation.
The Looks
In terms of design, Aston Martin has hit a home run. Despite sharing some hard points with the old Vantage, this new version eliminates all the awkwardness. What’s left is one of the most beautiful cars on sale today. It turns heads everywhere without being overly flashy—just as an Aston Martin should.
Taking on the 911 Turbo
Traditionally, the Vantage competed with lower-end Porsche 911s, but Aston Martin is now clearly aiming at the 911 Turbo. The Vantage’s base price of $194,500 is slightly below that of the standard 911 Turbo, and with 656 horsepower, it surpasses the 911 Turbo S’s 640. That said, the Vantage delivers a completely different driving experience.
While the 911 Turbo exudes quiet confidence—reserved in style but brutally fast—the new Vantage is more of a brawler. It’s a front-engine, rear-drive powerhouse that feels like a throwback to a different era, yet it still delivers finesse when needed.
Pros
Looks, Sound, and Feel: The new Vantage delivers on all the traits that define an Aston Martin. Its balance is excellent, and the steering offers genuine feedback. Aston has also mastered brake pedal feel, which was missing in previous generations.
Comfort and Damping
Though the Vantage is firm, the adaptive dampers do a good job of keeping things comfortable, especially in the softest “Sport” setting. On smoother roads, you can ramp up to “Sport+” or even “Track” for a more intense experience.
Speed and Power:
With 656 horsepower, this car is fast—really fast. Aston Martin has developed its own version of the AMG V-8, and it offers power across the rev range, accompanied by a surprising musicality. While the eight-speed automatic transmission isn’t as crisp as a dual-clutch, it’s hard to find fault with its smoothness and responsiveness. Still, a manual option would be a welcome addition.
The Vantage Interior
Aston Martin has made significant strides in the interior department. The new Vantage features a custom infotainment system and a centre console with physical buttons, steering clear of the industry’s current obsession with touchscreens. Most of the controls feel great, though some Mercedes-sourced components, like the haptic steering wheel buttons, feel a bit cheap. Overall, while it may not reach Bentley levels of luxury, Vantage’s interior is far more special than that of a Porsche 911, and it is no longer a reason to skip the car.
Pricing
While the Vantage’s base price undercuts that of the 911 Turbo, the options list can quickly inflate the cost. For instance, carbon-ceramic brakes add $14,000, a Bowers and Wilkins sound system costs $10,000, and all the carbon-fiber exterior trim totals $18,000. In this test model, the base price of $194,500 ballooned to $292,500. Our advice: choose your options wisely.
Conclusion
Though it might not dethrone the 911 Turbo, the Vantage’s distinct personality makes it incredibly appealing. Its exuberant character, combined with Aston Martin‘s signature style, elevates it to one of the most improved cars on the market. The new Vantage erases the disappointments of its predecessor and solidifies Aston Martin’s place as a brand of true desirability.
