After Aston Martin’s introduction of the AM Rapide and AM One-77, the quintessentially British marque has switched their concentration to its two core model lines – the Aston Martin DB9 and Aston Martin Vantage. Rather than replace the existing DB9 and Vantage, it is rumoured Aston Martin are planning thorough revisions of the models, revision which will include their chassis and engines.
Aston’s flexible VH platform that both the DB9 and Vantage are based on will reportedly carry on for another generation. Although it is thought that Aston Martin plan to reduce weight by around 10 per cent in both the DB9 and Vantage. A thorough re-engineering of the platform components, possible use of lightweight composite body panels will aid Aston Martin to shave some of the weight from both models to produce slim line next generation models.
The new DB9 and Vantage are expected to arrive around 2013/14 helping the company reach EU emissions targets.
The existing Aston Martin DB9's V12 engine is likely to carry on for another generation, although not without considerable amendments. Technologies developed for the Aston Martin’s racing program will be utilised in the revised road cars, but will the prospective benefits of including direct injection outweigh the costs?
On an aesthetic note, both the AM DB9 and AM Vantage are expected to take some elements from the Aston Martin One-77. So, expect a low, wide grille and strapping character line running from the signature front-fender vent to the rear, although these characteristics will be somewhat toned down for the volume models they are sure to make an impression none the less.
