Recently unveiled, 2013 Aston Martin DB9, will replace the slow-selling Virage. Although the new DB9 takes inspiration from AM’s upcoming Vanquish Super GT and from Virage itself, the new DB9 actually marks the end of Virage production.
The exterior changes are barely noticeable, while the most significant upgrade is a new V12 engine – a version of which will be used in the upcoming Vanquish. The new engine produces 510bhp, 21bhp more than the outgoing Virage, and 40bhp up on the previous DB9. The DB9 comes with a Touchtronic 2 transmission instead of the traditional 6-speed manual box.
Styling tweaks are borrowed from the Virage model, with more angular headlights than previous DB9s, while the revised bonnet, front bumper and grille will enable the new DB9 to pass the latest European pedestrian-protection regulations. A larger front grille feeds air to the Brembo carbon ceramic brake system, which is standard fit, while the latest version of Aston Martin’s Adaptive Damping System allows the driver to select between Normal, Sport and Track suspension set-ups.van
Overall instrumentation and interiors feel similar to other Aston models except for the Vanquish which clearly has a futuristic theme. The interior of the cabin boasts with full-grain leather features the elegant hand-stitched “welt” element first seen in the Virage, complemented by rich walnut veneers, jewel-like glass switchgear – including Aston’s signature crystal key – and a comprehensive array of standard equipment that encompasses everything from satellite navigation and a 700-watt Aston Martin Premium audio system with satellite radio to dual-zone auto climate control and a Rear Parking Assist Camera.
The 2013 model year Aston Martin DB9 is offered as a Coupe and the Convertible Volante, and goes on sale this October, priced from £131,995 ($214,808).
