The Aston Martin Virage was reintroduced in 2011 as a new grand touring model designed to sit between the DB9 and the more performance-focused DBS. Although the Virage name had previously been used during the 1990s, the modern version was a considerably more refined and sophisticated car, combining traditional Aston Martin styling with improved performance, comfort and handling.

The 2012 Virage was built around Aston Martin’s VH aluminium architecture, which also underpinned several of the company’s other models of the period. Its elegant proportions were closely related to those of the DB9, although the Virage received its own detailing, including a distinctive front grille, revised bumpers, new side strakes and carefully developed aerodynamic features.

Power came from Aston Martin’s hand-built 5.9-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine. Producing approximately 490 bhp, it was mounted towards the rear of the engine bay to help achieve favourable weight distribution. Drive was sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission mounted at the rear of the car as part of a transaxle arrangement.

Performance was suitably impressive for a luxury grand tourer. The Virage could accelerate from 0–62 mph in around 4.6 seconds and reach a top speed of approximately 186 mph. Rather than pursuing the more aggressive character of the DBS, however, Aston Martin tuned the Virage to provide a balance between performance and long-distance refinement.

Adaptive damping allowed the suspension to respond to different road conditions and driving styles, while carbon-ceramic brakes were fitted as standard. These helped reduce unsprung weight as well as providing strong and consistent braking performance. A Sport mode sharpened the throttle response, transmission behaviour and exhaust note when required.

Inside, the Virage followed Aston Martin’s traditional approach to craftsmanship. The cabin featured extensive hand-finished leather, aluminium detailing and carefully selected materials. Buyers could specify a wide range of colours, trims and personalised options through Aston Martin’s extensive options programme.

The Virage was offered as both a coupé and the open-top Virage Volante. Despite the considerable engineering effort involved in creating the model, its production life proved unusually short. Aston Martin discontinued the Virage in 2012 after approximately eighteen months, as part of a restructuring of the model range that saw the DB9 receive substantial improvements.

As a result, the modern Virage is one of the rarer Aston Martins of its generation. Its brief production period, naturally aspirated V12 engine and position between the DB9 and DBS give it an unusual place in the company’s history. Today it represents a distinctive example of Aston Martin’s early 2010s grand touring philosophy, combining understated styling, traditional craftsmanship and naturally aspirated V12 performance.