2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante Fetchingly Follows the Coupe

Overview and Highlights of the DB12 Volante

The Aston Martin DB12 Volante is the highly anticipated convertible version of the DB12 coupe that debuted last year. Here are some of the key highlights of this new super tourer:

  • Powered by a 671 HP 4.0L twin-turbo AMG V8 engine, providing rapid acceleration and a 202 MPH top speed
  • Fabric roof folds away in 14 seconds at speeds up to 31 MPH
  • Redesigned cabin features higher quality materials and new touchscreen interface
  • Adaptive dampers sharpen handling while retaining compliant ride comfort
  • 5% better torsional rigidity than previous DB11 Volante model
  • Pricing expected around $265,000 when deliveries begin later this year

In-Depth Review of Styling and Design Elements

The DB12 Volante styling is largely based on the DB12 coupe, with some tweaks to accommodate the folding fabric roof. When viewed from the side, the Volante's proportions are very similar to the coupe. Key design elements include:

  • Long hood and short rear deck create a powerful, rear-biased stance
  • Sweeping line runs from front wheel arch to rear haunch
  • Aggressive front fascia with large honeycomb grille and LED headlamps
  • 20-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels
  • LED taillights span width of rear fascia
  • Fabric roof is well-integrated and stows completely behind rear seats

With the top down, the Volante takes on an even simpler, elegant profile. The black fabric folds neatly behind the seats, with no bulky mechanism visible. Aston Martin will offer the roof in 4 different colors - black, red, blue and black/silver.

The interior design mirrors the coupe, with a few changes to boost open-air comfort:

  • Redesigned dashboard and center console
  • Upgraded materials throughout cabin
  • New infotainment system with 10.25" touchscreen
  • Diamond-quilted leather seats
  • Alcantara headliner when top is down
  • Optional carbon fiber trim packages
  • Improved storage spaces and cupholders

Overall, the Volante provides a finely crafted interior environment, retaining Aston Martin's reputation for detail and luxury.

Review of Performance, Handling and Technical Specs

Even in convertible form, the DB12 Volante maintains serious performance credentials:

  • 671 HP and 590 lb-ft of torque from 4.0L twin-turbo V8
  • 0-60 MPH in 3.6 seconds, only 0.1s slower than coupe
  • Top speed of 202 MPH with roof up
  • Rear-drive with electronic limited-slip differential
  • 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
  • Adaptive dampers developed specifically for Volante

The Volante uses the same engine as the coupe - a 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8 built by AMG and tuned by Aston Martin. This delivers tremendous straight-line performance. The convertible weighs approximately 240 lbs more than the coupe, but still accelerates to 60 MPH in a scant 3.6 seconds.

Handling remains precise due to a retuned suspension and adaptive dampers. The special damper tune provides a compliant ride for touring while retaining agility. Aston also improved torsional rigidity by 5% over the previous DB11 Volante. An electronic locking rear differential further enhances grip when accelerating out of corners.

Braking and safety systems include:

  • Carbon ceramic brakes standard
  • Latest stability/traction control systems
  • Front/side airbags for occupants
  • Backup camera and parking sensors
  • Rain-sensing wipers

So while concessions were made for the Volante's convertible nature, Aston Martin engineers ensured this remained a serious driver's car with an emphasis on both performance and comfort.

Analysis of Grand Touring Abilities and Features

Aston Martin designed the DB12 Volante as a "super tourer," providing sports car capabilities along with grand touring refinement. Several features support this dual personality:

  • Long wheelbase for smooth ride at highway speeds
  • Sophisticated adaptive suspension system
  • Improved noise insulation for quiet cruising
  • Upgraded premium leather and Alcantara interior
  • Enlarged fuel tank extends range between fill-ups
  • Touchscreen interface reduces distraction when driving
  • Comfortable seats for long distance journeys
  • Rear seats can accommodate small bags/parcels
  • Front/rear storage areas for luggage
  • Hands-free power trunk lid for convenience

The Volante provides plenty of performance when desired, with a muscular V8 soundtrack. Yet it also excels at relaxed cruising over long distances. Overall noise levels are lower than the previous DB11 Volante at speed, thanks to improved door/roof seals and other insulation. The opulent leather interior includes 12-way power seats to dial in comfort.

On the tech side, the upgraded infotainment system reduces distraction through easy touchscreen inputs. USB/Bluetooth support smartphone integration. Other amenities like auto high-beams, parking assistance, and rain-sensing wipers further enhance the grand touring experience.

Pricing and Positioning Relative to Competitors

Aston Martin will position the DB12 Volante at the pinnacle of luxury high-performance convertibles, with an expected base price around $265,000. Key competitors and alternatives include:

  • Bentley Continental GTC - Similar grand touring focus but heavier and less agile
  • Ferrari Portofino - More hardcore sports car; less refined for long distances
  • McLaren 720S Spider - Mid-engine supercar; higher performance but less practical
  • Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spyder - V10 power but cramped interior
  • Mercedes-AMG S63 Cabriolet - Less engaging to drive but more roomy
  • Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet - Iconic everyday sports car with AWD; lower price point

The Volante hits a sweet spot between focused sports cars and large luxury convertibles. Combining Aston Martin's character and craftsmanship with 2+2 practicality and ample performance, it is poised to be a highly desirable open-air grand tourer. The expected $265k pricing positions it competitively within the upper niche.

Analysis of Changes Relative to Previous DB11 Volante

The new DB12 Volante represents a thorough evolution over the outgoing DB11 Volante:

  • Exterior - Revised styling with tweaked proportions and details
  • Interior - Completely redesigned with higher quality materials
  • Infotainment - Upgraded to 10.25" touchscreen system
  • Drivetrain - Carries over AMG-sourced 4.0L twin-turbo V8
  • Transmission - Upgraded to 8-speed automatic from previous 8-speed
  • Chassis - Retuned adaptive suspension and revised rear springs
  • Structural Rigidity - Improved by 5% for handling precision
  • Roof - New lightweight folding fabric top with color options
  • Safety - Added new active systems like auto emergency braking

While the powertrain is fundamentally similar, almost every other aspect of the Volante has been improved. The exterior styling strikes an even better balance between elegance and aggression. The redesigned cabin raises the luxury and comfort level. New technology improves functionality and usability. Chassis tweaks enhance ride and handling. And active safety systems bring everything up to modern standards.

First Drive Impressions and Review

Based on a hypothetical first drive review of the DB12 Volante

We recently had the rare chance to get behind the wheel of a pre-production DB12 Volante, and the experience affirmed that this new convertible grand tourer warrants all the hype. Aston Martin has preserved the brand's distinctive cosseting character, while adding new levels of performance, comfort and technology.

Once underway, the brawny AMG-built V8 delivers effortless acceleration. The 8-speed transmission snaps off quick, smooth shifts in automatic mode, while the paddles provide crisp manual changes. The turbo power delivery has just a hint of lag before unleashing a wave of torque. The adaptive dampers work wonders to soak up bumps without compromising control. Drop the power roof, and the V8 soundtrack resonates even more vividly.

At highway speeds the DB12 Volante morphs into a supremely relaxed cruiser. Wind noise is very well contained, and the suspension soaks up imperfections. Little road or mechanical noise penetrates the luxurious leather-lined cabin. The seats stay comfortable even after hours in the saddle. This car could devour endless miles of open road and leave occupants fresh.

When the road gets twisty, the Aston feels poised and responsive at speed. The chassis provides a subtle balance allowing the rear end to rotate smoothly. The steering loads up progressively in corners but could use a tad more feel. Slowing things down, the big carbon-ceramic brakes offer stellar power. Overall, the Volante keeps you immersed in the drive without being punishing.

Aston Martin has artfully evolved the DB11 Volante into a world-class luxury convertible. The DB12 Volante retains an enchanting blend of elegance, soul and performance - now infused with more cutting-edge design and engineering. It's a magical combination promising to reward equally on epic journeys or Sunday drives.

Verdict: The New Pinnacle of Luxury Open-Top Grand Touring

The arrival of the 2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante represents a new benchmark for elite luxury convertible grand touring. Beautifully designed and impeccably crafted, it builds on the excellence of the DB11 Volante in every metric.

Aston Martin has cleverly preserved the marque's revered ambiance and custom detailing, while elevating levels of performance, comfort, and technology. The Volante's striking yet subtle styling masterfully conceals the technical upgrades within.

Factor in prodigious power, sharper dynamics, everyday usability and a truly opulent interior, and the DB12 Volante seems destined for icon status. It breezes from open-air boulevardier to transcontinental road tripper to backroad thrill ride with equal polish and delight.

Of course with an expected $265k price tag, this singular machine remains the preserve of the fortunate few. But for those seeking the pinnacle of refined high-performance motoring augmented by wind-in-the-hair freedom, the new Volante is a droptop that flawlessly melds form and function into automotive art.

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