Aston Martin gives the Vanquish S a refresh

The 2016 Aston Martin Vanquish S (Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd.)

Aston Martin has given its flagship GT a timely boost in performance and handling precision but will it be enough to vanquish the competition?

With all the hype surrounding the new Aston Martin DB11 (most of which is genuinely deserved) it can be easy to forget that the eccentric British sportscar company's current flagship is actually the Vanquish S.

Therefore to refresh people's memories as to the Aston Martin pecking order, the company's engineers have given the hand-built GT a thorough going over and in the process have managed to up the car's engine output to 595bhp (a 27bhp increase). That means the silky smooth, naturally aspirated 6-litre V12 will now pull the Vanquish S from 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds.

To help keen drivers enjoy this extra dose of acceleration as much as possible, the gearbox has also had some attention. Shifts between the eight gears are now much quicker and sharper so that finding and staying in the right rev band is easier. And in concert with the stiffened suspension (which should only start to get firm as the limits of grip approach), the car should be much more confidence-inspiring at the higher end of its speedometer.

In terms of looks, there are some new exterior exposed carbon fiber elements -- such as front splitter spoiler and rear diffuser -- plus a menacing quad-exhaust system coming out of the car's rear. Owners will be able to specify even more sporty details such as hood louvers and even graphics packs.

Inside, whether specified as a coupe or convertible, the Vanquish S is essentially business as usual. The changes are seen in the options catalogue with a wider choice of leather, wood and carbon fiber trims to choose from.

"From the moment the original Vanquish was launched [in 2001] it became a modern icon. It propelled Aston Martin from an era of hand-built cars to one where craftsmanship and technology combined to create a new kind of great British GT," said CEO Dr. Andy Palmer.

"Now, the Vanquish S takes things a step further, confidently asserting itself within the Aston Martin range and distinguishing itself from the new DB11. A spectacular machine in every sense, the Vanquish S is a magnificent addition to our range."

Prices will start from the euqivalent of approximately $335,270 (£199,950/€262,950/US$294,950) when order books open this week.