Aston Martin has combined the V8 Vantage GT and the V8 Vantage S into a single model called GTS that was developed specifically for the American market.
The GTS is offered as a coupe and as a convertible, and it uses the same naturally-aspirated 4.7-liter V8 engine that’s found in the outgoing Vantage S. Built largely by hand, the eight-cylinder is tuned to develop 430 horsepower at a screaming 7,300 rpm and 391 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm. It’s offered with either an enthusiast-approved six-speed manual transmission, or a seven-speed automatic unit.
The Vantage hits 60 mph from a stop in about four seconds when it’s ordered with the automatic transmission, and it keeps on accelerating until the speedometer reaches about 190 mph.
Aston breaks the GTS down into two sub-models called Sport Edition and Lux Edition. Pictured above, the Sport model comes with a firmer suspension tuned for the track, black trim on both ends, black tail pipes, and a sprinkling of carbon fiber accents all around. Inside, it features more carbon fiber trim, black dials, an Alcantara-upholstered steering wheel, and leather seats available in either black or gray.
The Lux Edition replaces the Sport model’s carbon fiber accents with more elegant-looking chrome trim. The grille, the headlight bezels, the side strakes, and the window surrounds are chromed, and all Lux models ride on silver five-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the GTS Lux boasts piano black trim, satin chrome dials, and soft leather upholstery available in just about any color. A softer suspension and a 1,000-watt sound system make the Vantage Lux more comfortable to drive on a regular basis.
The Aston Martin Vantage GTS will arrive in showrooms in time for the 2017 model year. Pricing information hasn’t been published yet, but Autoblog expects it will carry a base price of approximately $134,000 before options are factored in.
