Aston Martin is in the process of renewing its sports car lineup, with the new DB12 replacing the DB11 as the first of the new arrivals.
The DB12 will be followed in quick succession by a revamped Vantage, a prototype for which has been spotted again, this time with video shot at the Nürburgring. Like the DB12, the new Vantage will be more of a major update of the current generation as opposed to a ground-up redesign.
The spy footage shows that Aston Martin's entry-level sports car will likely receive a new front-end design with larger headlights and a more conservative grille in Aston Martin's traditional shape. Indicator lights have also been added to the side mirror caps.
Expect some mechanical changes, though Aston Martin remains quiet on just what is planned. The DB12 received more power along with multiple tweaks to the chassis, including a new suspension design with adjustable dampers and stiffer anti-roll bars, an electronic rear differential, and increased rigidity. Expect similar tweaks for the Vantage.
We also know Aston Martin will no longer offer a V-12 in the Vantage. The automaker launched the last of its V12 Vantage sports cars in 2022. That means the sole powertrain will likely be the current turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 sourced from Mercedes-Benz AMG, possibly with some tweaks for extra performance. The V-8 currently delivers 503 hp in the standard Vantage and 527 hp in the Vantage F1 Edition.
The V-12 isn't the only option being dropped from the Vantage. Fans will also have to say goodbye to the manual. The Vantage line is Aston Martin's last car with the option of a manual, and the automaker plans to phase out the third pedal with the arrival of the new Vantage.
A completely redesigned dash with a more advanced infotainment system is also planned. The current design relies on outdated technology borrowed from Mercedes-Benz.
The current Vantage arrived in 2018 as a 2019 model. Look for the new one to be revealed later this year as a 2024 model.
