The Return of a Classic: The 2023 Aston Martin Virage
As an exercise in elegant power, the reimagined 2023 Aston Martin Virage finds its place in the luxury automaker's roster. Blending sophisticated design and exhilarating performance, this understated sports car is a testament to the enduring appeal of Aston Martin's exclusive blend of style and substance.
A Balancing Act of Performance and Comfort
The Virage finds a delicate middle ground in Aston Martin's range, nestling comfortably between the graceful DB9 and the sports-centric DBS. It promises enhanced performance, yet maintains an air of refined luxury - a trait that is quintessential of Aston Martin's vehicles.
This model is powered by a hand-built 6.0 litre V12 engine, putting out an impressive 490 bhp and 570 nM of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission and utilizes a carbon fibre prop shaft, contributing to a perfect 50:50 weight distribution - a harmonious blend of luxury and sporting capability.
Dynamic Driving Experience
Yet performance numbers are only a part of the story. What sets the Virage apart is its dynamic driving experience. The Adaptive Damping System (ADS) allows the car to adapt to various road conditions, enabling the driver to fully harness its performance with ease. With five different stiffness settings in both normal and sport mode, the Virage offers a driving experience tailored to individual preferences.
An additional ‘Sport’ button enhances throttle response and gears changes, providing the driver with control over gear shifts and enabling one to explore the car's performance capabilities.
A Tech-Infused Luxury Offering
Despite its sporting credentials, the Virage does not compromise on comfort and refinement. Standard equipment includes heated sports seats, cruise control, Bluetooth telephone preparation, a new fully integrated satellite navigation system developed with Garmin, and a high-power 700W Aston Martin Premium Audio System with full iPod integration.
The car employs Aston Martin’s bonded aluminium ‘VH’ architecture, a technology derived from the aerospace industry that aims at weight reduction while preserving rigidity and versatility. This architecture allows for the production of both a Virage coupe and Volante.
Sophisticated Design and Craftsmanship
The Virage embodies Aston Martin’s design philosophy of combining simplicity with elegance. From its single bi-xenon headlamps to its clean front bumper design, and the iconic side strake housing six LEDs, the car carries Aston Martin’s classic styling cues but brings them into the modern era.
The craftsmanship is evident as you open the swan-wing doors and are welcomed by the rich scent of the finest Bridge of Weir leather. An astounding 200 man-hours go into creating each Virage, with 70 of those dedicated to the hand-stitched interior alone.
Wrapped Up in Luxury
Available for purchase through Aston Martin's global dealership network, the 2023 Virage weaves the brand's celebrated legacy into a modern sports car package. While performance and luxury are often seen as polar opposites, this offering strikes a balance between the two, serving as a testament to Aston Martin’s ability to evolve and adapt to the demands of discerning modern drivers.
It is this balance, between power and refinement, performance and comfort, that positions the Virage as not merely a car, but as a luxury experience that could only be brought to life by Aston Martin.
-Ed
2012 Aston Martin Virage
