Aston Martin Debuts Hotter Vantage S

Michael Accardi
by Michael Accardi

Aston Martin just introduced the Vantage S ahead of the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Key Points

  • The new Aston Martin Vantage S features an updated 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 671 horsepower—15 more than the standard model—achieving 0–60 mph in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph.
  • Key chassis enhancements include recalibrated Bilstein adaptive dampers, revised rear springs, a softer transmission mount for improved refinement, and a rigidly mounted rear subframe to boost steering response and precision.
  • The Vantage S introduces restrained aesthetic changes like red accents, a new rear spoiler generating nearly 100 pounds of downforce, and 21-inch satin black wheels, with interior updates limited to exclusive badging and optional trim details.

At the heart of the Vantage S is the same 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 found in the 'base' model, but reworked to deliver 671 horsepower—a modest increase of 15 hp. Torque remains unchanged at 590 lb-ft, and the engine still sends power to the rear wheels via an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox. The result is a 0–60 mph sprint of 3.3 seconds, trimming a tenth off the regular car’s time.


Acceleration to 124 mph takes just over ten seconds before it tops out at 202 mph. But the gains aren’t just on paper. Aston Martin’s engineers have made several chassis and suspension refinements aimed at optimizing its responsiveness and drivability without compromising daily usability.

The Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers have been recalibrated to deliver better front-end feedback, while new rear spring rates promise to improve compression and rebound control. Ride quality at lower speeds should also benefit, thanks to these mechanical tweaks and a softer transmission mount.


Aston has taken a notably minimalist approach to the visual changes, opting against ostentatious aero elements in favor of subtle hints. Hood-mounted aero blades, red accenting, and a rear spoiler are really the only visible updates. The new spoiler adds nearly 100 pounds of downforce at speed, while bespoke 21-inch satin black wheels with red highlights are exclusive to the S.

Underneath, the rear subframe is hard-mounted directly to the chassis—meaning without rubber bushings—to improve steering precision and chassis feedback. Aston also made a few adjustments to suspension settings, giving the Vantage S revised camber, toe, and caster settings for greater cornering control.


The cabin remains familiar, with light revisions including model-specific embroidery and optional red or silver finishes on the drive mode selector. Aston Martin hasn’t yet detailed market pricing, but production is expected to begin soon, with customer deliveries set to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025.


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Michael Accardi
Michael Accardi

An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.

More by Michael Accardi

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  • Barry Barry on Jul 10, 2025

    So you are saying it accelerates to 60 a d 124 slower than my C8 Corvette Stingray Z51. Why should I be impressed by this?

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