Geneva: Aston Martin To Introduce New Virage

Lyndon Conrad Bell

2 9,765 views Feb 23, 2011

Nicely positioned in the Aston lineup between the grace and fluidity of the DB9 and the raw power and performance of the DBS, the new Virage will resurrect over 26 years of Aston Martin history when it is unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1. While Aston's use of the name Virage dates back to 1985, at 490 horsepower and 420 ft-lbs of torque, this latest Virage's V-12 makes it the most powerful Aston Martin to ever carry the name.

Hand built, Virage takes over 200 hours to assemble, plus another 70 to hand stitch the leather adorning the custom crafted interior. Exotic materials include aluminum for the structure of the car, carbon fiber for the driveshaft, and Carbon Ceramic Matrix for the brake rotors. These choices minimize weight--while maximizing strength in these key areas.

Naturally every current comfort and convenience feature is offered. Equipment includes heated sports seats, cruise control, satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephone preparation, and a 700 watt audio system with DolbyPro Logic II and full iPod integration.

Virage is the first application of Aston's new Adaptive Damping System, offering 10 selectable settings to optimize the driver's preferred balance of handling and ride quality. A six-speed automatic conducts gear changes; with of course, paddle shifters to give the driver the option of complete control over them. A sport button sharpens throttle response, and holds the transmission in each gear to redline. The transmission rides in the rear end of the Virage, helping the low slung, wide standing Aston Martin achieve a perfect 50:50 weight balance.

While introducing new styling themes, the Virage is instantly recognizable as a member of the Aston Martin family. The new grille is reminiscent of the One-77's with five chamfered vanes for texture. A brace of six LEDs adorns each of the front fenders, simultaneously serving as repeaters for the turn signals and introducing a point of visual interest--while reinterpreting the traditional side strakes each Aston Martin carries.

Also available as an open (Volante in Aston-speak) model, Virage is already available in Europe. Pricing will be announced at the Geneva Motor Show next week.