A Return to the Pinnacle of GT Cars
Aston Martin Vanquish flagship GT model returns, taking over as the de facto replacement for the recently retired DBS. Set to debut in the U.S. market by the end of 2024, the 2025 Vanquish is positioned above the DB12 and Vantage, with a starting price of $429,000 plus destination fees. This revival marks the third generation of the Vanquish, which first appeared in 2001 and later in 2012, and continues the legacy of Aston Martin’s top-tier GT lineup.
Despite resembling the DBS, the 2025 Vanquish is an all-new creation from the ground up, incorporating advanced design elements that nod to the past while setting a new standard. Unlike many modern high-performance vehicles, the Vanquish eschews hybrid technology, all-wheel drive, and complex gearboxes, instead focusing on a traditional and pure driving experience. Under the hood lies a newly developed V-12 engine—a rarity in today’s market as many automakers transition to smaller, electrified powertrains.
A Fresh V-12 Engine for a New Generation
The Vanquish is powered by a newly designed 5.2-liter V-12 engine, a significant departure from its predecessor’s design. According to Alex Long, Aston Martin’s head of product and marketing, the choice to equip the Aston Martin Vanquish flagship GT model with a V-12 emphasizes its status as a special, top-tier vehicle in the brand’s lineup. James Owen, senior manager of vehicle engineering operations, emphasizes that this engine features entirely new components, including a fresh block, heads, intakes, and turbochargers that rely solely on exhaust-driven technology.
This powerhouse delivers 824 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque, outperforming the final DBS 770 Ultimate, which produced 759 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. The Vanquish sets new benchmarks with a top speed of 214 mph and a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 3.2 seconds. The engine’s rev range, from 2000 to 5000 rpm, allows for broad power delivery, enhancing the driving experience. For the first time, this V-12 is paired with an electronically controlled rear differential, contributing to the car’s 49/51 front-to-rear weight distribution and superior handling dynamics.
Design and Technology: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
The 2025 Vanquish’s exterior features carbon-fiber body panels that lend a bold, assertive stance, complemented by design elements that harken back to Aston Martin’s rich heritage. Marek Reichman, executive vice president and chief creative officer, describes the design as a blend of the present, past, and future. Notable features include a pronounced grille for enhanced engine cooling, deep side insets to reduce visual mass, and multielement taillights that become visible only when illuminated.
Inside, the Vanquish maintains a driver-focused cabin with physical controls for key functions, allowing for a more engaged driving experience. The infotainment system is uniquely Aston Martin, distinct from the rebranded systems of other manufacturers, and the interior is strictly two-seater, echoing the car’s commitment to performance over luxury. Available only as a coupe for now, the Vanquish hints at a potential future Volante model, though no specific timeline has been announced.
Reichman sums up the significance of the Aston Martin Vanquish flagship GT model within the brand’s lineup, stating, “This is our beating heart.”
