Aston Martin has decided to further complicate its range with the presentation of yet another pair of cars that are virtually indistinguishable from the brand’s other models (insert Cygnet joke here) – at least for the untrained eye. This time, Aston Martin has resurrected the Virage name for a new coupe and cabriolet that sit between the DBS and DB9. According to the company, the Virage “capitalises on the technology from the DBS and unites it with the comfort and refinement found in the DB9 and Rapide”.
The Virage Coupe and the soft-top Volante are both powered by the company’s familiar 6.0-liter V12 engine. Given that the same poweplant produces 477HP and 443 lb-ft in the DB9 and 517HP and 420 lb-ft in the DBS, it’s only natural that the Virage’s V12 would fit in between in terms of output delivering 497HP and 420 lb-ft of peak torque.
The V12 is matched to a six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission mounted on the transaxle.
Aston Martin says the 0-100 km/h (62mph) sprint comes in 4.6 seconds while the Virage can continue up to a top speed of 299 km/h (188 mph). In comparison, the numbers for the 477HP DB9 are 4.8″ and 306 km/h (190 mph), and for the 510HP DBS, 4.3″ and 307 km/h (191mph), respectively.
The Virage features a new Adaptive Damping System (ADS) with a specific tune, as well as a Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system with bespoke settings, and standard Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes.
On the outside, the Virage sports a new aluminium metal front grille with five horizontal vanes that’s inspired by the One-77, along with a redesigned front bumper, a fresh interpretation of Aston’s side strake with six LEDs on the front wings, different side sills and a re-profiled rear bumper.
Inside, the two Virage models come with a full leather interior complete with colored piping and several standard features such as cruise control, satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephone preparation and a 700W Aston Martin Premium Audio System with Dolby Pro Logic II and full iPod integration
In coupe form, the Virage will be available as a 2+2 or a strictly two seater as an option, the latter providing a rear parcel shelf, while also reducing weight.
The Virage will receive its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next week and go on sale shortly after.
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