2012 Aston Martin Virage at 2011 Geneva Motor Show
- Competes with: Ferrari 458 Italia, Lamborghini Gallardo, Bentley Continental Supersports
- Looks like: Every other Aston Martin
- Drivetrain: 490-hp, 6.0-liter V-12 with six-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive
- Hits dealerships: May 2011
The Virage is a new V-12-powered sports car that’s offered in coupe and convertible body styles. Pricing information hasn’t been announced, but the Virage is designed to slot between the nearly $200,000 DB9 and almost $300,000 DBS in the automaker’s lineup. It arrives at U.S. dealerships in May.
Even though it’s a new model in the Aston Martin range, only ardent followers of the brand will likely be able to tell at a glance because the car looks remarkably similar to Aston Martin’s other sports cars. It’s a gracefully styled car, no question, but the automaker’s designs are clearly meant to create a connection with the brand as opposed to individual models.
Like the DB9 and DBS, the Virage is powered by a 6.0-liter V-12 engine, but its 490-horsepower output splits the difference between the 470-hp DB9 and 510-hp DBS. Unlike the DBs, which are available with either a manual or automatic transmission, the Virage is only offered with an automatic. With this setup, the Virage can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 186 mph, according to Aston Martin. The car features an adaptive suspension and carbon ceramic brake discs.
Seven hand-stitched Bridge of Weir leather hides are used to upholster the cabin, which comes with standard heated seats, a navigation system, cruise control, and Bluetooth and iPod connectivity.
