Aston aims to strike right balance

The new Virage coupe combines refined cruising ability with sporty prowess. Photo / Supplied

Aston Martin has resurrected a famous name of old to create a brand new model, all the while exploiting the middle ground between its two V12-powered coupes.

The carmaker says the new Virage offers the best compromise between the refined cruising ability of the DB9 and sporty prowess of the DBS - and updates features from both.

Power comes from Aston's hand-built 6-litre V12. It delivers 365kW, 15kW more than a DB9 and 15kW less than a DBS, and drives the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox. Engineers have tuned the V12 to deliver its 570Nm of torque lower down in the rev range for maximum driveability.

The engine also features a new exhaust manifold for an even more intoxicating sound. Beneath the skin is the aluminium VH architecture that underpins all modern Astons, while the Virage gets newly developed adaptive dampers.

These offer five different stiffness settings in normal mode and five more via a Sport button on the dashboard.

This also sharpens throttle response, holds on to gears for longer and speeds up shifts. Carbon-ceramic brakes are standard, too.

Striking xenon lights help to distinguish the Virage from other Astons, while there's a five-bar aluminium grille - inspired by the One-77 Supercar - and a cleaner front bumper, with a single lower grille in place of the DB9's three-part element.

Also fitted are fresh sills, 20-inch alloys and side vents with a chrome highlight. A new rear diffuser completes the look.

Inside, the Virage gets upgraded leather seats. Aston has finally responded to criticism of its ageing Volvo-sourced sat-nav and replaced it with the latest integrated Garmin.

Heated seats, a 700W stereo and Bluetooth hands-free also feature.

The coupe comes as a 2+2, or with a storage shelf instead of rear seats to save weight. Prices will be confirmed at next week's Geneva motor show.