The Vantage S arrives as the latest chapter in the brand’s storied tradition of high-performance derivatives. Following the path established by previous S models, this new offering demonstrates how meticulous engineering can transform an already exceptional sports car into something truly extraordinary. The development team has focused on extracting maximum performance whilst maintaining the refinement expected from the marque.
This latest creation builds upon the foundation laid by the standard Vantage, which has already established itself as the benchmark in its class. The engineering team has concentrated their efforts on three key areas: increased power output, enhanced dynamic capabilities, and distinctive visual enhancements that reflect the car’s heightened performance focus.
Enhanced powertrain delivers formidable performance
The heart of the Vantage S features an upgraded version of the company’s 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine. This powerplant now produces 680PS at 6,000rpm, with peak torque of 800Nm delivered between 3,000 and 6,000rpm. The broad torque curve ensures immediate in-gear response, providing the kind of effortless acceleration that transforms every driving experience.
Engineers have refined the throttle pedal weight and response to align with the S characteristics. The drive-by-wire throttle map has been specifically calibrated for this model, with unique tuning for each of the available drive modes. This attention to detail ensures that every control input feels natural and progressive, creating a seamless connection between driver and machine.
The powertrain calibration extends to the launch control system, which has been optimised to deliver a 0.1-second improvement in acceleration times. The car now reaches 60mph from standstill in just 3.3 seconds, with 0-62mph achieved in 3.4 seconds. The sprint to 124mph takes 10.1 seconds, whilst top speed remains at 202mph.
Chassis refinement enhances dynamic prowess
The suspension system has received extensive attention, with detail changes to hardware, powertrain mounts, and control software. The Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers feature revised hardware tuning and software calibration, bringing increased front-end feel and response. Rear spring aid stiffness has been reduced to balance compression and rebound, improving low-speed ride quality.
A 10% reduction in transmission mount stiffness provides additional refinement by controlling powertrain movement relative to the body and chassis. This allows the vehicle to move in harmony with the road surface, maintaining composure without sacrificing performance. The rear subframe now mounts directly to the body instead of through rubber bushes, further enhancing directness and steering connection.
The suspension geometry has been finessed with adjustments to camber, toe, and caster settings. These changes sharpen response, improve front-end grip under high lateral loadings, and precisely dial in the overall dynamic balance. The result is a car that demonstrates an appetite for corners backed by steadfast stability.
Distinctive styling reflects performance focus
Visual enhancements combine design form with performance-enhancing function. New centrally mounted bonnet blades, finished in gloss black or 2×2 twill carbon fibre, optimise the extraction of hot air from the hot-V configured V8 engine whilst providing a more assertive design character.
The model designation appears through discreet yet striking S signature badging on the front fenders. Each brass-forged S badge is hand-made, with the letter infilled in red glass enamel and the surround chrome-plated in either bright or dark chrome to match the specified wing colour.
A full-width decklid spoiler serves as the most explicit indicator of the car’s sharpened performance focus. This component increases rear downforce by 44kg at maximum speed, contributing to the overall 111kg of downforce generated at Vmax. The spoiler has been used to tune the aerodynamics, adding stability whilst ensuring the overall balance of downforce favours the front end to generate exceptional turn-in response.
Bespoke interior reflects sporting character
The cabin features a unique Alcantara and leather Accelerate interior as standard, with satin 2×2 twill carbon fibre trim inlays. This combination captures the essence of the S philosophy whilst offering a modest weight saving over the standard model. The sporting appearance aligns perfectly with the car’s dynamic capabilities.
Colour-matched, embroidered S logos adorn the upper shoulder panels of the seats. Each logo requires almost 2,500 individual stitches and over 16 metres of thread, demonstrating the commitment to luxury and performance. The iconic wings are also embroidered onto the headrests, utilising an industry-first technique that combines embossing and debossing.
An optional interior package offers customers the choice of red or silver anodised finish to the knurled metal drive mode rotary. This creates a bold centrepiece that coordinates with the seatbelt, contrast welt, contrast stitch, and headrest embroidery to establish a cohesive flow of highlights throughout the cabin.