Aston Martin’s Vantage Roadster, the drop-top sibling of last year’s revamped coupe, has made its grand debut. Set to arrive in U.S. showrooms by mid-year with a 2026 model-year designation, this open-air stunner promises to captivate enthusiasts with its refined design and thrilling performance.
Beneath the hood lies a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 sourced from Mercedes-AMG, generating a jaw-dropping 656 horsepower—a significant leap from the previous model’s 503 horsepower. Rear-wheel drive, paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, ensures exhilarating dynamics and precise power delivery.
Aston Martin engineered a speedy and space-conscious soft-top system for the Roadster. This innovative roof mechanism takes just seven seconds to operate, even at speeds up to 31 mph. When raised, the top integrates seamlessly into the coupe’s iconic silhouette, preserving its aerodynamic elegance.
To accommodate the convertible configuration, engineers added lightweight aluminum reinforcements, increasing weight by just 132 pounds. This keeps the Roadster’s dry weight at 3,670.7 pounds, with a balanced 49:51 weight distribution. Aston Martin claims the car rockets from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 202 mph.
Handling enhancements come courtesy of an overhauled suspension system, featuring double wishbones up front and a multi-link rear axle. Adaptive Bilstein DTX dampers, calibrated specifically for the Roadster, deliver both smooth cruising and dynamic cornering by toggling between comfort and sport settings.
Carbon-ceramic brakes provide robust stopping power, paired with 21-inch wheels offered in four distinct designs. Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires, staggered with 275/35 at the front and 325/30 at the rear, ensure superb traction and confidence on the road.
Advanced electronics elevate precision handling, with a stability control system monitoring six-axis movement. Integrated traction control, brake-based torque vectoring, and responsive steering work harmoniously to provide sharp handling and thrilling straight-line performance.
Design updates make the Roadster a modern standout while retaining Aston Martin’s signature style. A larger grille, updated headlights, and refined interior details align it with the brand’s latest aesthetic. The cabin now features dual 10.3-inch displays for gauges and infotainment, powered by a proprietary system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An 11-speaker sound system completes the premium experience.
Pricing details remain under wraps but are anticipated to slightly surpass the $194,500 starting price of the Vantage Coupe. Additional specifics will be unveiled closer to the official launch.
