- Aston Martin has dusted off the Virage nameplate last used in 1988 for a new range of Coupe and Volante cabriolet bodies based onthe DB9 and DBS. The Virage makes its world premiere at the Geneva motor show next week, alongside the souped-up Vantage S.
- Like all other models in the Aston stable, the Virage has a sleek, elegant and sporty design. A notable element are the bi-xenon headlights like those used in the Rapide four-door saloon. There will be either a two-seat or 2+2 matrix for customers to choose from.
- The Virage uses the brand's acclaimed aluminium "VH" structure and the 6.0-litre V12 engine and six-speed automated manual gearbox from the DB9 and DBS.
- The Virage has a power rating of 497hp, sitting in between 477hp DB9 and 517hp DBS. Although Aston hasn't revealed any acceleration figure, the Virage's 0-100kph time should likewise fall in between the DB9's 4.8sec and DBS's 4.3sec record.
- Pricing hasn't been announced yet. But considering Aston Martin's attempt to position the Virage in between its other two V12-powered siblings, it should have prices starting from 22 million baht on Thai shores.
- Aston hopes to attract buyers who find the DBS too hardcore to drive, which is why the Virage gets a more supple suspension setting and carbon-ceramic disc brakes claimed to offer easier braking modulation.
KEY QUESTION: Although the looks are too predictable (again), the easier driving manners is a step in the right direction for sports cars these days. But can comfort-seekers live with that jerky auto 'box?
The Virage looks just like any other Aston.
6.0-litre V12 tuned to 497hp.
Credit: Bangkok Post (www.bangkokpost.com)
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