Aston Martin is gearing up for an all-new Vantage due next year but the current model has plenty of life left in it.
Yesterday we learned that the 2017 V12 Vantage S would be receiving a new 7-speed “dogleg” manual transmission as a no-cost option, though only 100 manual-equipped examples will be coming to the United States. Aston Martin says these 100 cars will be offered as a special edition model.
We also learned that a track-focused version of the V8 Vantage dubbed the Vantage GT8 was in the works, though at this point it isn’t clear if the car will be offered locally. You’ll recall Aston Martin never sold its track-focused version of the V12 Vantage, the Vantage GT12, in these parts.
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But the changes affecting the Vantage don’t end there. Aston Martin has confirmed that it is consolidating its various V8 Vantage models like the Vantage GT and V8 Vantage S into a single model that will be known as the 2017 Vantage GTS. In other markets this single model will keep the V8 Vantage S moniker.
The engine remains the familiar 4.7-liter V-8, which is rated at 430 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can pick between a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automated unit and either coupe or convertible bodystyles.
Pricing is yet to be finalized but we’re told to factor on something close to the $135k starting price of the current V8 Vantage S.
Deliveries of the 2017 Aston Martin Vantage range commence in the third quarter of 2016.
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