DB9 V12 Volante Review
The DB9 is among Aston Martin's most popular sports cars. The model was originally launched in 2004, and grew to become one of the most well recognized symbols of the manufacturer. The company revised the model in 2012, with improvements to the design, the engine and other elements that add to the overall driving experience. The car competes with many other lauded names in the supercar segment, including Ferrari and Porsche. The Aston Martin DB9 V12 Volante is one of the variant available in this series. Among the many impressive design elements, the vehicle is equipped with the mighty V12 engine. This is among the most powerful drivetrains in the world, and it takes the vehicle to a staggering top speed of 295kmph. Also, it allows it to race from 0 to 100kmph within just 4.6 seconds. Coming to the body facet, the machine is built to evoke the shape of a sports car. It carries a low and streamlined profile that renders a dashing appearance, and at the same time, allows for agility and improved speed. A highlight of this variant is its convertible format, for the car looks even more stunning with its roof withdrawn. The interiors of the vehicle are made for a blend of stylish looks and functional comfort features. The seats are covered with fine upholstery, while the door frames, the instrument cluster, the steering wheel, the gear shift knob, and the rest of the cabin are decorated with a combination of many impressive materials.
Exteriors:
The manufacture of the vehicle has been based on sound research and extensive sketching and modeling. The overall form is made for an imitation of natural harmony, with nature's 'Golden Ratio' incorporated in all of its dimensions for utmost balance and reliability. It has a dynamic body structure that facilitates smoother airflow for better performance and speed. The gentle metallic skin features exquisite lines that add to its look. At the front, there is a large front grille flanked by tear-drop shaped headlamps. These are incorporated with single bi-xenon light systems, integrated LED side lights and direction indications. The hood adds to the muscular tone of the front, while the sweptback windshield is also eye catching in design. By the sides, there are 20 inch alloy wheels available as standard fitment. The rear section of the body is higher and more well toned. The taillight clusters are stylishly designed, and are integrated with clear LEDs, turn indicators, courtesy lights and other necessary lighting systems. There are two tailpipes at the bottom garnished in chrome. The vehicle's overall body structure is of an aluminum, magnesium alloy and composite structure. The company is also offering an optional carbon fiber pack that comprises of the vehicle's front splinter, rear diffuser, mirror cap, mirror arm and graphite tailpipe finish.
Interiors:
Beside reflecting sophistication, the cabin engages the passengers with a range of comfort and convenience features. A full grain leather finish ensures that the drive atmosphere is highly plush. In addition to this, the walnut fascia trim is also eye catching, along with the graphite center console finish and the iridium silver surround. The sports steering wheel is of leather, adding quality to the driver's experience. Organic electroluminescent displays provide a visually enticing feature, while also keeping the dials and digits well lit. The seats are of a sporty design, and ensure that the passengers are kept comfortable. The front seats are complete with headrests, which provides extra support to the neck and the head during the course of the drive.
Engine and Performance:
The vehicle is powered by an all alloy based V12 engine. It runs through a quad overhead camshaft valve configuration, and has 48 valves. This 5935cc engine can produce a peak torque of 620Nm at 5500rpm and a max power of 510hp at 6500rpm. The functioning of the engine is also aided by a fully catalyzed stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves. Also coupled with the engine is rear mid-mounted ‘Touchtronic 2’ six-speed transmission that comes along with an electronic shift-by-wire control system.
Braking and Handling:
The car's manufacture ensures that all aspects are of sound quality, including the braking and handling systems. Ventilated carbon ceramic discs are equipped to the front and rear wheels for strong control characteristics. In addition to this, the suspension adopts a three stage adaptive damping system that comes with normal, sport and track modes. Both the front and rear axles of the chassis is armed with independent double wishbone system incorporating anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers. Beside all of this, the vehicle is gifted with a dynamic stability control feature that allows for safer handling.
Comfort Features:
For the entertainment needs of the passengers, there is a 700 watt Aston Martin premium audio system that comes along with Dolby Pro Logic II, and includes a six-CD autocharger function. Beside this, the cabin also provides a USB connector with WAF, WMA and MP3 file compatibility. There is a 3.5mm auxiliary input socket for charging devices during the course of the drive. For the convenience of the driver, there is a trip computer with vital information regarding the drive. A tyre pressure monitoring system relays information regarding the vehicle's tyre conditions, helping to avoid critical situations before they occur. The sports seats come with an electrically adjustable function for the ease of the passengers, and in addition to this, there is a heating function for all of the seats, and also a memory facility for storing the passenger's preferences regarding the seats. The air conditioning system is aided with an automatic temperature control facility, providing ease of operation for the passengers.
Safety Features:
There are dual stage front airbags for both front passengers, along with side airbags for maximum cushioning. There are seatbelts for all of the seats as well, keeping the passengers well secure. There are parking sensors at the front and rear for added safety when reversing and parking. An anti lock braking system ensures good control when braking and cornering. In addition to this, an electronic brakeforce distribution further improves the safety quality. The vehicle is also provided with an electronic brake assist function, along with traction control.
Pros:
1. Superior performance on roads.
2. Comfortable interior arrangement with sophisticated equipments.
Cons:
1. Expensive price could mar buyers.
2. Low ground clearance could cause problems.
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