Driving a convertible at 202mph in the freezing depths of winter might sound ambitious, even with the heater blasting and the roof capable of closing in just 6.8 seconds. But Aston Martin's latest Vantage Roadster—revealed today and set for deliveries in spring—aims to make that dream a reality.
Aston Martin proudly claims that this two-seater sports car features the fastest electric folding roof on the market. Priced at £175,000, it’s £10,000 more than the hard-top coupe introduced last year, though it matches the coupe in acceleration and performance stats.
The Roadster’s design was developed alongside the coupe to ensure it retains the same sharp handling and dynamic performance. Powered by a bespoke 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine producing 665hp, the car sprints from 0 to 60mph in just 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 202mph. Larger turbochargers and engineering tweaks deliver an impressive 155hp boost over the previous Vantage.
Despite its jaw-dropping speed, the Roadster isn’t exactly eco-friendly. It averages 23mpg and emits 279g/km of CO2. But Aston Martin describes it as “a convertible without compromise,” designed for freedom and adventure while maintaining refinement.
Innovative Design and Engineering
The lightweight 'Z-fold' roof mechanism is a key feature, allowing the roof to open or close in 6.8 seconds at speeds up to 31mph or remotely from within two meters of the car. The design minimises weight and lowers the centre of gravity, adding only 60kg compared to the coupe.
Inside, occupants stay cozy thanks to eight levels of insulation in the fabric roof, which also provides soundproofing comparable to the coupe. The car is equipped with an aluminum roll-over protection system for added safety.
The Roadster rides on custom 21-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Sport S 5 AML tyres, developed specifically for the Vantage to offer exceptional grip in wet conditions and precise steering feedback. Stopping power comes from carbon ceramic brakes, available with callipers in seven colours.
Heritage and Modern Features
The Roadster honours Aston Martin’s legacy, which includes open-top models dating back to 1950 and the launch of the V8 Vantage in 2005. The new car’s finely balanced aluminium structure ensures a near-perfect 49:51 weight distribution.
The interior boasts leather sports seats as standard, with options for carbon fibre performance seats and a wide range of customisations through the "Q by Aston Martin" personalisation service. The Roadster also features Aston Martin’s new 10.25-inch infotainment system, complemented by physical buttons for essential controls.
For audiophiles, the standard 390w 11-speaker audio system can be upgraded to a bespoke Bowers & Wilkins setup. A dedicated Aston Martin app supports both iOS and Android devices, keeping owners connected.
A Thrilling Driving Experience
Available in three new paint colours—iridescent sapphire, satin iridescent sapphire, and bronze flare—the Roadster’s roof can be customised in black, red, blue, or black-and-silver fabric. Customers can explore additional liveries in 21 complementary colours.
Although the 200-liter boot limits storage space, the Vantage Roadster promises to deliver an exhilarating roof-down driving experience. Adrian Hallmark, Aston Martin’s CEO, sums it up: “The Vantage Roadster offers all the benefits of the coupe, delivering uncompromised performance, style, and refinement.”
Whether on the open road or navigating alpine slopes, this convertible masterpiece is built to thrill.
