
Aston Martin Reveals 2026 Vantage S With Shocking Performance originally appeared on Autoblog.
Return of the S
Aston Martin is continuing the renewal of its two-decade tradition of applying the ‘S’ suffix to special, high-performance derivatives of core models with the return of the Aston Martin Vantage S Coupe and Roadster. The British automaker promises it’s “the most performance-focused Vantage in Aston Martin’s sports car range.” The move follows the unveiling of therecently launched DBX S,which uses carbon fiber and magnesium to strip the DBX of as much weight as possible while adding the Valhalla supercar's 717-horsepower AMG-sourced, twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8.

The S stands for speed
For Aston’s newest S, its muscular twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 has been tuned to produce 671 horsepower, versus 656 horsepower for other Vantage models, while torque remains unchanged at 590 pound-feet of torque. Peak torque is available between 3,000 and 6,000 rpm through a rear-mounted eight-speed automatic transmission. Weighing in at 3,538 pounds, 346 pounds lighter than standard Vantages, this model hauls S, reaching 60 mph in 3.3 seconds on its way to a 202-mph top speed with the help of Launch Control. That’s a 0.1-second improvement, according to Aston Martin. The powerplant features an 8.6 compression ratio, dual variable camshaft timing, and CNC-machined combustion chambers.

The Vantage S boasts numerous refinements, such as throttle pedal weight and responsiveness adjusted for the S and its configurable driving modes, to help satisfy the driver's need for speed. The automaker states that ride quality has been enhanced by reducing the rigidity of the rear spring and gearbox mount, as well as increasing the front-end responsiveness of its Bilstein DTX adjustable dampers. To increase response, enhance front-end grip under high lateral loadings, and accurately adjust the Vantage S’s overall dynamic balance, the suspension's camber, toe, and caster settings have been adjusted, and the rear subframe is now attached directly to the body.
The Vantage S’s updated wardrobe
Like any sports car with a performance upgrade, it’s enhanced with an improved appearance. That means the Vantage S is distinguished by center-mounted hood blades finished in carbon fiber or gloss black to help optimize breathing. There are also brass-forged ‘S’ badges on the front fenders filled with red enamel, a full-width rear spoiler, new front air dam and front venturi vanes, and 21-inch Y-spoke wheels in satin black with red accents.

The upgrades continue inside, with a cabin fitted with the expected Alcantara, leather, and carbon fiber trim. The seats are embroidered with ‘S’ logos and Aston Martin wings embroidered onto the headrests. There’s also an optional choice of a red or silver knurled metal drive mode rotary, color-matched to the seatbelt, contrast and headrest stitching, as well as full semi-aniline leather or semi-aniline leather and Alcantara cabin.

Final thoughts
If the S suffix sounds familiar, that's for good reason. In the 1950s, the DB3S was Aston Martin's first post-war racing vehicle to finish second at Le Mans three times and to win a round of the World Sports Car Championship. At the 2004 Paris Motor Show, the Vanquish S was shown, reviving the S suffix and paving the way for the 2011 release of the V-8-powered Vantage S and the 2013 release of the V-12-powered Vantage S. The Rapide S and its more powerful engine became the only Rapide variant two years later, while the Vanquish S followed in 2016. The Vantage S was last produced in 2017.

The new Aston Martin Vantage S debuts at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed this weekend. Buyers can order one now, with deliveries expected to begin in the fourth quarter. Pricing has not been announced.
Aston Martin Reveals 2026 Vantage S With Shocking Performance first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 9, 2025
This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 9, 2025, where it first appeared.

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