The Virage name is back in the Aston Martin lineup. This sleek convertible, also available as a coupe, slots itself exactly between the high-end DB9 and the sporty DBS. They all look very similar, with only trained eyes able to make out obvious differences, like the new front grille inspired by the One-77 übercar. Following everybody's lead in the LED department, Aston Martin adorns the Virage with six such elegant lights in each of the front light housings.
Powered by a massive German-built V12 boasting 48 valves and 5.9 liters of cylinder displacement, making a total of 490 horsepower all delivered in a progressively throaty roar, the car is very quiet at idle and low RPM settings. Trying to match the manufacturer's broadcasted 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds would be a good demonstration of its sound signature, but then again cruising down Rodeo Drive on a summer day, you'd be hard-pressed to hear much of anything at all — and the ride is very comfortable for a sports car. You can vary driving modes, as well, by pushing the Sport button when things get more dynamic, making use of the Adaptive Damping System, and also alter the engine's singing. Should an obstacle get in your way, you'll be thankful to have the efficient, ventilated carbon ceramic brakes, which come standard on this model.
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The Aston Martin Virage's structure is based on the company's 'VH' architecture and is executed in a bonded aluminum shell delivering ultimate weight reduction. Everything is handmade here and countless hours were spent building the luxurious stitched-leather interior, accessed by the signature swan wing doors. With rapid evolution of technology, a new Garmin-developed satellite navigation system operated by a four-way joystick keeps you on track. Our onyx black tester with yellow-highlighted brake calipers came with an optional 1,000-watt Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system ($8,330), an upgrade form the standard 700-watt version with full iPod integration. Yes, you get Bluetooth connectivity, heated seats, cruise control, etc., although playing with the powerplant through the paddles will keep you occupied and generally happy.
The Aston Martin Virage Volante convertible makes for the perfect summertime ride — that is, if you can afford the $200,000+ point of entry. As with most convertibles, you'll need to deal with space restrictions if your ride takes you farther than jewelry shopping in Beverly Hills. 
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