2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Preview

New Model Designed to Increases Aston Sales and Market Reach

Having introduced the long-awaited V8 Vantage at this year's Geneva Motor Show, Aston Martin's latest

The long awaited Aston Martin V8 Vantage is finally here, making its first appearance at this year's Geneva Motor Show. (Photo: Aston Martin)

work will join its elegant siblings, the beautiful DB9 2+2 and the refined Vanquish S supercar in 2006.

The design, spawned from the AM V8 Concept shown at the 2003 North American International Auto Show which debuted Aston's new Henrik Fisker-penned styling direction, is positioned as a high-performance sports car with intentions of competing with and overthrowing legendary performance machines such as the Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz SL, Maserati 4200 GT and the next-generation BMW M3; the latter car to a lesser extent.

To Aston Martin, the V8 Vantage signifies the end of the first stage of the "reinvigoration" of the company, according to A-M CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez. This vehicle is a symbol of

According to Aston Martin CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez, the V8 Vantage signifies the end of the first stage of the "reinvigoration" of the company. (Photo: Aston Martin)

what improvements the brand has made through its modernization process, namely the modular engine series, the aluminum-intensive V-H architecture and the separation from other PAG-branded companies.

At the car's unveiling, Dr. Bez said that, "The V8 Vantage is a true Aston Martin, built with the same high integrity and passion as all of our cars. This is the most affordable Aston Martin and its design and agility should help us to widen our appeal and attract younger customers to the marque. The real difference is that the V8 Vantage takes us into a new sector of the market where we have not been previously represented."