There, there, Clarkson: Aston Martin video teases new limited-run V12 Vantage

By Nick Jaynes May 28, 2013

aston martin v12 vantage teaser — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Aston recently announced it was ending production of its exceedingly popular V12 Vantage model.

Powered by a 6.0-liter V12, which made 510 horsepower and 420 pound-feet, the V12 Vantage was Aston’s smallest current production model with one of its most powerful powertrains. It’s not hard to understand then why it was so well-liked.

Just when you thought the V12-powered Aston Martin was a thing of the past, the plucky British automaker had to go and prove you wrong – probably.

Aston Martin has made a very exciting if exceedingly limited teaser video of what looks like a limited edition V12 Vantage variant.

In the video we can see some extra carbon-fiber bits, and a snazzy looking new metallic gold/yellow color. We predict the special edition V12 Vantage will see a few more than 510 ponies sent to the rear wheels. And it also should make a 0-60mph run a bit quicker due to its newfound lightness.

When Aston first released the V12 Vantage, Jeremy Clarkson of Top Gear fame made a film predicting it’d be the last of its kind, representing the end of the V12 era.

Perhaps this vehicle is a final generous gift from Aston to keep Clarkson from pulling out – in anguish – what remains of his hair. Or maybe it just wants to sell more cars. Either way, we’re excited.

Aston Martin should reveal the full vehicle soon. So check back for more updates and watch the teaser video below:

Editors' Recommendations

Aston Martin Vantage AMR marks the return of the manual transmission

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.