Although the Aston Martin Vantage is considered the “baby Aston” of the range, there’s nothing infantile about this generation Vantage’s performance.

665hp and 800Nm of torque from a reworked four-litre twin-turbo V8 that sits at the heart of the Vantage propels it from 0-100km/h in just 3.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 325km/h through a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox via the rear wheels.

These numbers should get any serious car enthusiast hot under the collar, especially when the vehicle in question looks this gorgeous.

The Vantage’s bodywork is now 30mm wider than the previous model with a larger front grille, and all-new Matrix LED headlamp design with integrated daytime running lights (DRLs), featuring Aston Martin’s new light signature.

Frameless door mirrors and optional presenting door handles are also new, while a wider rear bumper incorporating side vents and larger diameter quad exhaust tailpipes ensure the Vantage looks as dramatic from the rear as it does from the front.

Vantage owners can enhance the sporting character of Vantage even further, by selecting one of three core livery designs. Available in 21 colours, a client can choose to add a Pinstripe, Pinstripe and Lipstick or Pinstripe, Lipstick and Rear infill.

A new launch control system sees to the Vantage’s snappy acceleration, and in conjunction with its E-Diff electronic limited-slip rear differential, ESP Slip Control and Adjustable Traction Control mean that the perfect launch can be dialled in for the current surface conditions.

The Vantage has a 50:50 weight distribution, which means it should handle extremely well too. Vantage’s bonded aluminium construction and underbody stiffening means more torsional rigidity, enabling more precision when pointed into and out of corners.

Adding to this are brand new Bilstein adaptive dampers, which offer a 500% increase in bandwidth of force distribution over previous generation hardware. This in turn has enabled an immense range of control and speed of response, and Aston Martin engineers to sharpen the Vantage’s handling characteristics.

The Vantage’s Electronic Power Assisted Steering system (EPAS) has also been sharpened, and at 2.27 turns lock-to-lock, will definitely offer its front-end a more darty and eager characteristic.

Of course, good handling also comes courtesy of grippy tyres, and Aston Martin has partnered with Michelin to fit 275/35 R21 and 325/30 R21 AML-marked Pilot Sport S 5 tyres made specifically for the Vantage.

These sticky rubbers sit on 21-inch forged 9.5J- and 11.5J-width alloy rims which are offered in three different designs, namely the standard Five-Spoke and optional Multi-Spoke and Y-Spoke, and in a range of colours and finishes, including Satin Bronze.

Braking duties fall to cast-iron 400mm front discs and 360mm rear discs with drilled faces for improved heat management and fade resistance. Optional Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB) can also be specified on the Vantage.

As expected of an Aston Martin, the Vantage’s interior is swathed in the finest materials. Standard fit is an Aston Martin 390w 11 speaker audio system, but a stunning 15-speaker, double amplified 1,170W surround sound system developed by audio partner Bowers & Wilkins is optionally available.

The Vantage is the second model to feature Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment. Created in-house and first introduced in DB12, it features a 10.25-inch touchscreen system which is much snappier than previous iterations.

Supplemented by a new Aston Martin customer connectivity app which supports iOS and Android devices, this infotainment system allows interaction, control and feedback to and from the customer’s Vantage via their personal device.

When purchasing their new Vantage, owners will be invited to enrol in the new Aston Martin app and create their own unique AML ID. The app offers a range of connected car subscription packages that are free for the first 3-years and designed to maximise the Aston Martin ownership experience.

This pre-production Vantage is making its rounds in right-hand drive markets for exclusive previews. It will be available for viewing at the Aston Martin showroom at 45 Leng Kee Road until Monday 6 May 2024.

Next stop, Kuala Lumpur.

Production versions of the Aston Martin Vantage are expected to arrive on our shores in Q4 2024.

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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The Singapore Motor Show 2024 opened for public viewing on 11 January 2024. Some new cars and concept vehicles were launched and/or shown, and here are the notable ones.

Audi

Another e-tron-badged EV joins the Singapore market line-up as the Q4 Sportback e-tron was unveiled. Expect a couple of different trim levels featuring up to 286hp courtesy of one or two electric motors, 0-100km/h in up to 5.4 seconds, and a claimed WLTP range of up to 544km.

Also check out the SQ8 Sportback e-tron (not pictured) at the Audi stand. You can’t miss it in bright red.

BMW

Two new models were unveiled at the Singapore Motor Show 2024.

Representing electrification is the BMW iX1. Readers would know that its X1 ICE sibling won the AutoApp Car of the Year 2024 award, and here’s an electrified version that brings about more quietness to the commute.

If an SUV SAV coupe body style is more your thing, the X2 is now available for purchase. Looks stylish, especially in the show car’s bright red hue.

If you like the X1 but need more oomph, the X1 M35i is also available for sale and can be seen at BMW’s stand. With 300hp from its two-litre turbocharged engine and sent to all four wheels, the 0-100km/h sprint is dispatched in a scant 5.4 seconds.

Also on display for the first time in Singapore is the i5 M60. 601 fully electric horsepower put to the road through all four wheels means you’ll be shoved deep into your seat as 100km/h comes and goes in a heady 3.8 seconds while you silently rush past everyone else on the way to that all-important board meeting.

Citroën

The e-C4X is touted as Citroën’s first fully electric sedan. Carrying on the design language seen in the e-C4 from 2023, this quirky lifted sedan is eye-catching but not in a garish way, just how a Citroën should be. We look forward to an oh-so cushy and comfy quiet ride in the e-C4X.

Denza

BYD’s luxury brand Denza is in Singapore with the D9 MPV EV. The D9 is expected to make its way later this year and is said to be available in both two- and all-wheel drive variants. A sumptuously appointed interior speaks to the upmarket credentials of Denza, and we’ll have more to come when we get behind the wheel on our roads.

You’ll find the D9 and other BYD models including the facelifted Atto 3 at BYD’s stand at Suntec City Convention Centre Atrium beside Uniqlo.

Honda

The 2024 CR-V was launched in both five- and seven-seater configurations. Both feature a 1.5-litre turbo VTEC engine that puts out 193hp and 243Nm of torque through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The CR-V has traditionally been regarded as a highly accomplished family SUV, and we have no doubt that this new 2024 model continues that tradition.

Hyundai

Tucked away neatly but menacingly in the corner of the Hyundai stand is the IONIQ 5 N. 650hp, 770Nm of torque, a blistering 0-100km/h time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 260km/h is all you need to know. It’s not actually available for sale in Singapore but who knows… some day…. some… day….

Also at the Hyundai stand are three COE Category A or Cat A cars to take note of.

The first is the Avante, the only hybrid sedan in its class in Cat A. Next up is the IONIQ 6 EV, or what I affectionately call “my Korean Saab,” which is now available as a Cat A model. Finally there’s the Kona EV, which sits in Cat A.

All very compelling options for buyers who don’t want to look at Cat B vehicles.

KIA

The angular and spacious EV9 was unveiled at KIA’s stand, but don’t let its boxy stature fool you. Featuring a drag coefficient of just 0.28 and built on the E-GMP platform, this 7-seater is likely to outrun many other similarly spacious SUVs on our roads.

Lexus

The LBX is Lexus’ compact SUV for the first time eco-conscious luxury car buyer who prefers the splash-and-dash convenience of a self-charging hybrid drivetrain while enjoying excellent fuel economy.

Additionally, the interior is very upmarket for its class and Lexus is said to provide over-the-air (OTA) updates to keep the infotainment system current with new features and improved performance.

Mercedes-Benz

In a Tron-meets-Geländewagen synastry, the EQG EV concept was unveiled to much ooohs and aaahs all around. This foreshadows an electric G wagon that’s said to arrive later this year as the EQG. Can’t wait to see that!

Also at the Mercedes-Benz stand is the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance (not pictured). If our recent Mercedes-AMG C63 F1 Edition article caught your attention, you definitely want to check the C63 S E Performance out.

MINI

The concept Aceman is on display over at Mini’s stand. The future of MINI is electrified, and the Acemen drops clues as to what can be expected with the next new Mini model as an electric vehicle (EV.)

MG

Headlining things over at the MG stand is the Cyberster, a fist-bitingly gorgeous cabriolet EV. With 536hp from two electric motors, 100km/h from a dig comes in a wig-ripping 3.2 seconds. That the roof also goes up and comes down in just 10 seconds is a plus, but when you open the doors, be enthralled as they scissor skywards.

Just be careful of low-ceiling multistorey carparks though, for it swings taller than the 1.84-metre tall MG9 MPV beside it.

Nissan

The 2024 Nissan Serena e-Power was unveiled for the family buyer in both Premium 8-seater and Highway Star Prestige 7-seater configurations. This Serena features the second generation e-Power technology along with a more powerful 1.4-litre turbocharged engine that works as a generator to charge its battery and power the electric motor.

Omoda

Not many details on the E5, but we’re told that it will only be available in Singapore as an EV. Looks pretty slick though, and has a technology-focused interior to keep the tech enthusiast satiated.

ORA

After a positive response and strong showing in 2023 with the Good Cat, ORA is starting 2024 with a bang with the 07. Baby Panamera anyone? Sure looks the part. The ORA 07 is said to be available in Singapore from the latter half of this year.

Polestar

In addition to the Polestar 3 that debuted in Singapore last year, what grabbed everyone’s attention was the drop-dead gorgeous Electric Roadster concept that was built to showcase Polestar’s vision for the future of electric sports cars. This is just a clay model, so don’t lean on it.

Subaru

If you’ve always wanted your WRX (left) or Crosstrek (right) tarted up to look more aggressive and purposeful, check out both of these vehicles in GT Edition.

The Subaru BRZ STI (not pictured) is also on display with similar aesthetic and handling improvements from the in-house performance wing Subaru Technica International (STI).

Suzuki

The Jimny may not be a new car, but this latest-generation five-door variant is new to the Singapore market. Manufactured in India by Maruti Suzuki, this five-door Jimny adds more practicality to its already adorable and plucky nature.

Volvo

The quickest accelerating production Volvo to date, the all-electric EX30, was launched at the 2024 Singapore Motor Show. In dual motor all-wheel drive configuration, the EX30 uses 422hp to power its way to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds. Rear-wheel drive single motor variants will feature 268hp for both standard and long-range guise.

The EX30 is also Volvo’s most compact EV SUV in its model line-up.

Singapore Motor Show 2024 runs from 11 to 14 January at Suntec City Convention Centre Levels 3 & 4, and tickets are available for purchase online and on-site at Level 3 Concourse.

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Dickson Auto Group, a Singapore-based automotive dealer, recently announced the launch of an in-person live auction for used cars. The system differs from the traditional process which involves selling a vehicle to a used-car dealer or dealing it on a used-car sale platform.

Instead, this vehicle will be evaluated by Dickson first, then auctioned off to a pool of used-car dealers who bid behind closed doors, with the highest price then being passed on to the seller.

To ensure fairness to the seller, a pre-sale inspection by Dickson is done for each car, which it claims will offer “a fair quotation based on current market prices and overall vehicle’s condition”. If the owner agrees to the offer presented to them, that sum will be paid to them first.

The auction for each vehicle lasts only for 60 seconds, with the dealers bidding on computers in a centralised auction hall. The vehicle owner can observe the process from a private viewing room behind the hall.

If your vehicle crosses the auction block and the final price exceeds this sum, the owner will be paid the difference, minus fees. Alternatively, in a situation where the auction price is below the agreed price with Dickson, then the owner does not need to pay the difference.

“Vehicle owners often face difficulties in getting the best prices… They may be disappointed when a pre-agreed selling price is subsequently reduced when they are ready to sell their vehicle,” said Mr Kim Wah Boon, founder and chief executive of Dickson Group.

“Buyers, on the other hand, may worry that the condition of the vehicle is not up to their expectations when they collect it. These uncertainties and lack of transparency can affect the entire experience.”

The pictures shown here are from a media demo, with the first rendition of the auction happening on July 18 2023. Dickson plans to hold them every fortnight. As for bidders, Dickson claims there are “over 100 car dealers” listed in their inventory. Only dealers registered with the company are eligible to participate. Unfortunately, this system is only B2B for now, with no indication of whether Dickson will eventually open it up to B2C customers.

Whatever the outcome, innovations like this are an interesting way to spice up the used car market in Singapore.

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Mercedes-Benz has officially launched the all-new GLC SUV in Singapore. According to the German automaker, this is their best-selling SUV, and this new iteration promises added functionality and better styling.

Electrifying

In Singapore, the all-new GLC will come in two variants – the GLC300 and GLC300e. The former is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder engine coupled to a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This bestows the car with a respectable 255bhp and 400Nm of torque.

A nine-speed automatic gearbox allows the car to put the power down, and rock a century sprint timing of 6.2 seconds.

Meanwhile, the higher-trim GLC300e, with its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, offers a total system output of 308bhp with 550Nm of torque. However, due to the additional weight, the century sprint is hindered slightly, taking 6.7 seconds instead. But, because of its sizeable 31.2kWh battery, the GLC300e can be driven for up to 138km (WLTP) on electric power alone.

Mercedes-Benz claims this is the most extended range they have ever put into a plug-in hybrid model to date.

A suite of safety systems

Mercedes-Benz’s Driving Assistance Package Plus, which encompasses a suite of driver assistance features, has also been enhanced for this model. Active Distance Assist Distronic – colloquially known as adaptive cruise control – can now detect stationary vehicles that are on the road at speeds of up to 100km/h instead of 60km/h.

For drivers who are adventurous and wish to take their GLC offroad, a new ‘off-road mode’ lets you have greater visibility on obstacles in front and under the car, with a new feature dubbed the ‘transparent bonnet’ function. ‘Off-road mode’ also displays pertinent information such as gradient, inclination, and compass.

Buyers who wish to further enhance the GLC’s driveability for city streets can opt for the Engineering package, which includes Airmatic (air suspension), and 4.5-degree rear-axle steering.

Longer and wider

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC features a redesigned front end, with elements borrowed from its siblings like the new GLA and C-Class.

Wider tracks give it a more imposing presence and the muscular facade further enhances the GLC’s outgoing character.

For added bite, prospective customers can opt for rim sizes ranging from 18 to 20 inches, with some even coming with optional two-tone finishes.

There were two variants launched today, and both are available in two trim levels. Customers can spec either the Avantgarde or AMG-Line trim. Those who spring for the more expensive AMG-Line will have a sleek front grille that features a tessellation of the Mercedes-Benz star motif.

The GLC’s taillights also receive this star pattern embedded within its lenses, and the simulated chrome diffuser gives the car an air of upmarket luxury.

Bigger = More Practical

The all-new GLC is now longer and lower (by a tiny margin) than its predecessor. The car has grown by 60mm, now spanning 4,716mm in length, while the overall height has dropped by 4mm to 1,640mm.

The larger dimensions and enhanced rear overhang give the GLC additional practicality. Boot capacity has increased by 70 litres from the outgoing model, now standing at 620 litres. Fold the rear seats down, and a cavernous 1,680 litres is at your disposal.

However, this isn’t translated in the PHEV GLC300e, where the battery sits pretty in the boot floor, taking up a considerable amount of space. Boot capacity drops to 470 litres, or 1,520 litres with the seats down.

Refined cabin

According to Mercedes-Benz, the cabin of the all-new GLC features an aeroplane-wing-inspired dashboard, complemented with aircon vents that “resemble the engine nacelles of aircraft”.

Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) 2.0 is front and centre here, rocking up on a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a vertical 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen display.

Customers can also spec the car with Augmented Reality navigation aids, which assist drivers by using virtual arrows to visualise to the driver which exits or routes to take.

Prices

The all-new GLC is available for viewing at the Mercedes-Benz Center, located at 301 Alexandra Rd, Singapore 159968.

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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