· As the mellow sound of an M5 roared out of the car depot, the energetic feet of James Bond pounded toward his… new Aston Martin Virage? As the 2nd generation Virage, I perceive that the engineers have taken the ‘good bits’ from the 1st generation Virage, along with the even ‘better bits’ of the DB9. But really. Can it be that simple?
· Design & Engineering:
If you find that it looks like a DB9, you’re absolutely right. The body of the Virage is pure DB9. You have the same curves, classic grinchy front grill, sweeping rear, and the portholes. Take a closer look—the sills and skirts have been beefed up, the front grille slightly larger, Rapide headlights, along with bolder and sharper looks. As with all blue-blooded Astons, a coupé or cabriolet is available. Being a car priced higher than the DB9, only the signature 6.0 liter V12 attached to the same six-speed automatic gearbox. Indeed, it definitely does its job…
· Interior
One word. DB9. The interior is the same as the DB9, or even the DBS, simply in slightly better build quality. You have the classic speedo and rev. dials which spin in the opposite directions. You have the same ‘hidden’ Bond style pen. You have the classic glass key fob and buttons. You have the same flappy-paddles. The only major difference would probably be the redesigned GARMIN GPS with a better resolution, and higher graphics. But being an Aston, interior finishes are catered to your choice. It’s simply how much more you care to add on.
· Ride & Handling
Being a tried and proven V12, the Virage’s engine propels the car forward in what seems to be a mere seconds. The engineers have given the engine a slight tweak, producing a noticeably higher BHP. Punch the ‘Sport’ button, and the Aston seems as if a double dose of adrenaline has been ingested All of a sudden, your classy Aston transforms into the refined beast it was built for, and gobbles up the open tarmac. When not on ‘Sport’ mode, the Virage civilly rumbles along, careful to not tread on any toes—with an air of class. Handling is superb, as on all Astons, and a certain aura of alertness fills the air. Despite on ‘Sport’ or not, a good ride can be expected, due to an improved steering and suspension—true bliss.
· Verdict
A redesigned interior would be nice. Smooth ride; power on the go, incredulously sophisticated. Bond would have approved~
o Personal advice: Cater to your choice. Being an Aston, what can go wrong?
o Picture from:
No comments:
Post a Comment