ASTON MARTIN Virage | The Aston Martin Virage Arrives in Japan!
ASTON MARTIN Virage
The New "Virage" Returns After 11 Years!
Aston Martin recentlyunveiled the luxury sports car "Virage" at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1, 2011,and it has now been introduced in Japan.
By Tomomi Yanaka
Pursuing Elegant Yet GT-Like Performance
The "Virage"was a large sports car equipped with a V8 engine, produced from 1989 to 2000. The new model, bearing the same name, inherits that legacy but is powered by a 6-liter V12 engine,the flagship "DBS"andthe elegant sports car "DB9"positioned between them.
The lineup includes the coupe "Virage" and the convertible "Virage Volante." Furthermore, the coupe is available in a standard 2+2 seating configuration, with an optional 2-seater configuration also offered.
The engine delivers a maximum output of 365kW (497ps) and a peak torque of 570Nm (58.1kgm). Notably, it can generate over 85 percent of its maximum torque at a practical 1,500rpm, highlighting its usability. This immense power and torque are transmitted to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission called "Touchtronic II" and a carbon fiber propeller shaft. Gear changes are managed by glass buttons on the fascia. Pressing the Sport switch, also on the fascia, enables quicker gear changes and holds gears up to the rev limiter, canceling automatic upshifts, allowing the driver to fully exploit the Virage's potential. The front-to-rear weight distribution is a balanced 50:50, pursuing ideal driving dynamics. Additionally, manual mode can be selected by pulling the paddles mounted on the steering column.
Lightweight Body Achieved with VH Structure Bonding Aluminum
The suspension features a newly developed "Adaptive Damping System (ADS)." Sensors placed throughout the vehicle precisely detect road conditions, and the measured data is used by the Adaptive Damping Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to calculate optimal damping force. The system can be adjusted for firmer damping to prioritize handling and control, or softer for comfort during normal driving. Control is managed via the glass ADS switch on the fascia.
The body utilizes an aluminum-bonded VH structure for weight reduction. The distinctive long-nose and swan-wing doors create an unmistakable Aston Martin exterior, designed with a simple yet luxurious aesthetic. The car is fitted with 20-inch wheels featuring a five twin-spoke design. Four body colors are available: black, gray, red, and yellow. Brake calipers can also be selected from these four colors.
The interior is appointed with the finest Scandinavian leather. Pinstripes, hand-stitched by artisans, accent the cabin, creating a luxurious finish.
The "Virage" elegantly pursues GT-like performance, truly deserving the title of "luxury sports car." Sales timing and pricing are yet to be announced.
ASTON MARTIN VIRAGE
Body Dimensions: Length 4,703 x Width 1,904 x Height 1,282 (Volante: 1,289) mm
Wheelbase: 2,740mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,785 (Volante: 1,890) kg
Engine: 6.0-liter V12 DOHC
Max Output: 365kW (497ps) / 6,500rpm
Max Torque: 570Nm (58.1kgm) / 5,750rpm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic (Touchtronic II)
Fuel Economy: 15.0 mpg
CO2 Emissions: 349g/km
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

