Aston Martin has revealed a new car which harks back to the 1990’s nameplate -Virage. The 6.0 litre V12 model is named Virage as it bridges the gap between the softer DB9 and the stiffer, more aggressive DBS. Like all modern era Astons, the Virage is an evolution of current models. It is powered by the Cosworth developed 6.0 litre V12 engine found under the bonnet of the DB9, DBS and the Rapide. The platform which it is based upon too, is familiar -the VH platform which first spawned the DB9, has been thoroughly developed since its appearance in 2004. The result of this means the Virage is “the best-developed model so far” claims Aston Martin. Aston also claim that the Virage will be easier to drive than the DBS, thanks to suspension parts being shared from the Rapide saloon. This will make the car more comfortable. Apparently, the cars noise level from the tyres and the road has been significantly reduced too.
The exterior of the Virage is typical modern Aston. Design Chief Marek Reichman has evolved the DBSs design and Aston’s current design philosophy left by former designer Ian Callum and in doing so instilled his own mark, thus creating the Virage. The Virage has a new face to create its own identity. It has a new grille, new wings, new Bi-Xenon headlamps, plus a front splitter. The famous side vents located on both wings has lost its top vent, and the rear diffuser has a softer appearance than on the DBS. Expect the Aston Martin Virage to cost around ?150,000.
