2025 Aston Martin Vantage: Power, Luxury, and Usability Redefined

Aston Martin’s 2025 Vantage marks a major evolution for this iconic model, offering more than just a mid-cycle refresh. With significant upgrades that touch every corner of the car, this version transforms the Vantage into a more refined and capable supercar. One of the most exciting changes is under the hood: the AMG-sourced twin-turbocharged V8 engine has been boosted to an impressive 656 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, a massive increase compared to the previous generation. This power surge, which delivers thrilling acceleration and top-end performance, is complemented by a complete exterior redesign aimed at improving aerodynamics and stance. Notably, the addition of new aero strakes and a wider body adds a more aggressive look that complements the Vantage’s enhanced performance.

But the improvements aren’t limited to the Vantage’s performance. The interior, which once felt like a secondary priority, has now been elevated to match the rest of the Aston Martin lineup. Drawing inspiration from the DBX707 SUV, DB12 grand tourer, and Vanquish flagship, the 2025 Vantage now boasts improved technology, better connectivity, and upgraded tactile touchpoints. As I drove the loaner through Los Angeles for a week, it became evident that this Vantage is not only an extraordinary driver’s car but also a practical one, capable of handling daily driving demands with ease.

Whether navigating rush-hour traffic, cruising the highway, or carving through canyons, the 2025 Vantage turned heads everywhere I went. The loaner’s Cosmopolitan Yellow paint, with its metallic flake, was eye-catching and made a bold statement on the road. However, I found that while the color might stand out in photos, it occasionally overshadowed the car’s sleek lines and subtle details. In my opinion, a darker hue, such as the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team green or even a classic silver, might better highlight the Vantage’s sophisticated design.

What surprised me most, though, was the Vantage’s interior comfort and space. Standing at six-foot-one, with long limbs, I was able to find my ideal driving position without moving the seat too far back. The adjustable steering wheel added even more customization, ensuring a comfortable and engaging driving experience. Visibility from the cockpit was decent, considering the car’s low profile, and while it didn’t offer the panoramic views of a higher-riding SUV, it was more than adequate for a car designed to thrill on the road.

The true excitement of the 2025 Vantage, however, comes when you take it out on twisty roads. On the scenic hills of Malibu, both on weekdays and weekends, the Vantage truly comes to life. The dramatic power increase, now offering greater low-end punch and seamless top-end acceleration, makes driving this car an absolute joy. While the claimed 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds is impressive, it’s the joy of shifting through gears on the eight-speed ZF transaxle that stands out. The engine’s turbo boost builds progressively as the car accelerates, allowing you to enjoy the experience rather than simply chase numbers on a speedometer.

A major factor in the Vantage’s engaging driving experience is the transaxle layout, which positions the gearbox between the rear wheels to improve weight distribution. This setup enhances the car’s balance, though it still retains a tail-happy nature, which could catch less experienced drivers off guard. Aston Martin has chosen not to implement all-wheel drive, a decision that makes the Vantage feel more raw and engaging on the road. Traction and stability control systems play a crucial role in managing the car’s power, but the Vantage allows for more subtle levels of intervention compared to most competitors. During my drives, I frequently switched between the Sport and Sport+ drive modes, finding that the rear tires would break traction with too much throttle in almost any mode, except Wet.

The handling is sharp, and the steering tightens up nicely as the car speeds through curves. However, I did find that in Sport+ mode, the steering became somewhat less responsive, dulling the finer feedback from the tires. I preferred a middle ground and, if I were to own a 2025 Vantage, I would likely customize the drive mode to allow for more tactile communication from the steering while still maintaining a firm suspension. When dialed in perfectly, the Vantage becomes a superb driving companion, whether you’re cruising through city streets or pushing it through challenging terrain.

The 2025 Vantage is a car that doesn’t ask you to make sacrifices for its performance. Unlike low-slung mid-engine supercars that demand constant attention to avoid scraping on speed bumps or rough roads, the Vantage blends performance with practicality. Its rear hatchback design offers easy access to more storage space than you might expect from a car of its performance caliber, making it a solid option for those who want both luxury and convenience. And with a starting price of $191,000, the Vantage is priced competitively when compared to rivals like the Porsche 911 Turbo. It delivers more power and style for the money, while maintaining Aston Martin’s signature sophistication and craftsmanship.

In summary, the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage is a remarkable car that combines breathtaking performance with daily usability. With its massive power gains, revamped interior, and striking exterior design, it stands out in a crowded market of high-performance sports cars. Whether you’re looking for a car to turn heads or a thrilling driver’s machine that’s just as comfortable on the highway as it is on twisty backroads, the 2025 Vantage delivers. For me, it easily secured a spot on my list of the most enjoyable cars I drove in 2024.