Aston Martin DBS Superleggera: The super GT that pays homage to heritage

Aston Martin has just unveiled its newest grand tourer, Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, at Lanson Place Hotel in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. This is the latest car to be launched under the company’s ambitious Second Century Plan project, which has already seen a number of successful models roll out over the past few years, including the highly anticipated DB11 and the Vantage GT8.

The new super GT – Aston Martin DBS Superleggera – brings together two iconic names that are inherently intertwined with Aston Martin’s heritage. With DBS, Aston Martin revives an iconic nameplate that first appeared in 1967, while with the Superleggera technology, the carmaker pays homage to the historic lightweight construction know-how of the famous Italian coachbuilders Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera.

From its lightweight carbon-fibre body and innovative aerodynamic concepts to its 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine and class-leading in-gear acceleration, Aston Martin DBS Superleggera packs a punch both in looks and performance. Especially, the engine is at the heart of DBS Superleggera’s excellence. Set low and as far back in the chassis as possible to optimise the centre of gravity and weight distribution, the engine develops 725PS at 6500rpm and 900Nm from 1800-5000rpm.

Of course, the DBS Superleggera comes with a generous dose of standard features, including keyless entry, tyre pressure monitoring system, a 360-degree camera, a complete infotainment system, a satellite navigation system and a Wi-Fi hub. All-in-all, a neat package!

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Patrik Nilsson, Aston Martin Asia-Pacific President, seemed visibly happy with the new car. “The new DBS Superleggera is an important chapter in our Second Century Plan, as it completes our vision to replace our core sports car model. I hope that those who get a chance to view it will agree that it has tremendous presence and charisma,” he said.

Recommended on-road retail price: From HKD$4,680,000

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Aston Martin 2014 Centenary Edition Vanquish reaches 007th gear in auction

As any true James Bond aficionado will happily testify, rather than titillating moviegoers with wanton violence or low-cut cleavages, the truly pornographic content of the 007 franchise comes in the form of its sleek, sexed-up supercars, vehicles that give a whole new meaning to auto erotica. Of late, the most car-horny of these sultry saloons has been the bespoke, midnight-blue Aston Martin 2014 Centenary Edition Vanquish currently owned by Daniel Craig, the premium Bond du jours.

Imagine then the erotic frisson occasioned among fans when this particular Bond buggy was announced as the centrepiece of Exception, a unique, one-off auction event staged by Christie’s New York earlier this year. With its inevitable ‘007’ number plate and the added bonus of a Craig-signed plaque, the road-ready ‘mint condition’ car was initially tipped to go for US$400,000 but, in the end, the winning bid – courtesy of an anonymous buyer topped US$468,500.

Upping the vehicle’s coveted quotient even higher is the fact that the ‘Centenary Edition’ is strictly limited to only a 100 cars, with each boasting a unique graduated paint finish and sterling silver Aston Martin wings. This particular Aston Martin Centenary Edition Vanquish was further customised based on Daniel Craig’s personal preferences; hence, the deep-blue, hand-stitched leather interiors – keeping in mind the actor’s favourite colours, a leather box of accessories, including Bang & Olufsen earphones in leather pouch, silver Aston Martin cufflinks and a silver roller-ball pen.

All proceeds went to The Opportunity Network, a charity dedicated giving a fresh chance to disadvantaged youngsters across the US, an initiative supported by both Craig and Rachel Weisz, his British-born actress wife.

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Car-Watch Collaborations: The latest chapter of horology’s hottest trend

The collision between two of mankind’s greatest passions – motoring and watches – was a surprise to almost no one. After all, both were dedicated to pushing boundaries, setting records, and, most importantly, inciting that incurable burst of adrenaline in their enthusiasts. In recent times, though, the pace of new car-watch collaborations hitting the market has revved up significantly.

This hot horology trend has yielded some true standouts. Take, for example, Bulgari’s casual yet sporty Octo Retro Maserati GranSport, which is perfect for everyday wear. (Check out our extended review of this watch here.)

Bulgari's Octo Retro Maserati GranSport — Bulgari’s Octo Retro Maserati GranSport

On the more extreme end of the spectrum is the Excalibur Aventador S from Roger Dubuis. Modeled on the engine of a Lamborghini Aventador, it was crafted from the self-same carbon fibre favoured by the Italian supercar maker – a relatively new material in the world of haute horlogerie. It’s the perfect example of how car-watch collaborations have spawned innovative new techniques.

Lamborghini and Roger Dubuis' Excalibur-Aventador S — Roger Dubuis’ Excalibur-Aventador S in partnership with Lamborghini

Equally grandiose avant garde is Hublot’s Techframe Ferrari 70 Years King Gold Tourbillon Chronograph. This particular timepiece was created in celebration of Ferrari’s 70th anniversary. With just 70 pieces made, it’s a true collectors’ piece.

This brings us to the newest kids on the car-inspired watch block: Tag Heuer’s Formula 1 Aston Martin and Carrera Heuer 01 Aston Martin. Launched last week at the International Geneva Motor Show, these models were unveiled after an announcement that Tag Heuer was now the Official Partner, Official Timekeeper and Team Performance Partner for the Aston Martin Red Bull Racing team.

At the event, Britain’s much-loved motoring company also revealed a brand new Vantage GTE boasting Tag Heuer’s signature colours. The car is set to compete in the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans race in June.

The Tag Heuer-Aston Martin relationship is just the latest in a series of car-watch collaborations, but if their new timepieces are anything to go by, it may just be one of the most fruitful.

New Aston Martin Vantage debuts edgier look

Despite the finger-numbingly cold weather, hordes of car enthusiasts and industry leaders turned up for the unveiling of the new Aston Martin Vantage last Thursday. They were not left disappointed.

When the drapes came off, it was immediately clear that the new Aston Martin Vantage is breaking with tradition. Gone are the soft, curved edges so evident in sister models like the elegant DB11 and the sleek Vanquish. Instead, the British carmaker has opted for strong angles and a distinctly sporty feel.

A 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and a matching eight-speed ZF transmission, placed low and to the rear of the car, produces over 500bhp and 685Nm of torque. This gives the car a zippy top speed of 314kmph and a 0-100kmph time of just 3.6 seconds.

Aston Martin has also stepped away from its usual aerodynamic designs, instead opting for a gaping front grill, roomy side vents and a barely-there spoiler to firmly pin down the car in tight corners. It is also equipped with Electronic Rear Differential, a first for the brand.

Despite all the upgrades to its athletic performance, the new Aston Martin Vantage doesn’t skimp on high-tech creature comforts. The In-Car Entertainment system boasts an 8-inch display screen, Bluetooth capabilities, Android and Apple compatibility and the Aston Martin Martin Audio System alongside its satellite navigation system.

Dr. Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President and CEO, proudly shared, “I am enormously excited by what we’ve created, a new Vantage that’s more explicit in looks and intent, wrapping heart-pounding performance and dazzling dynamics into an everyday usable package.”

While the new Aston Martin Vantage may ruffle some feathers among true-blue Aston fans, it’s an exciting step into the future for the British car manufacturer and a great way to introduce a whole new generation to the wonders of Aston Martin.

The new model (priced from HK$2,480,000) is on sale now, with deliveries beginning in the third quarter of this year.

Text: Tenzing Thondup
Video and Images: Aston Martin

Top 5 luxury cars set for release in 2017

This year promises to be an absolute thriller for adrenaline junkies, with the release of new cars from Lamborghini to Aston Martin.

We have picked out some of the top luxury vehicles set for release in 2017.

Lamborghini Aventador S

What better way to start off the year than by Lamborghini announcing their brand new car, the Aventador S.

With power, style and finesse packed into one, it’s the ultimate status symbol for anyone in Hong Kong.

But, questions may be asked about what makes the Aventador so special. Well, according to the dealer’s spokesman, Jason Lau, the 740hp, v12 machine capable of speeds up to 350km/h has a “new aerodynamic design, redeveloped suspension, increased power and new driving dynamics”.

But, this car doesn’t come cheap as it will cost more than the HK$6.65 million Aventador Coupe.

Aston Martin DB11

If you’re feeling the need for speed, then the Aston Martin DB11 is perfect for you.

Don’t let the outer sleek and stylish look fool you as this car is nothing but raw, primal power. Described as the most powerful production DB model ever, the DB11 comes equipped with a 600-horsepower, 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine.

In addition to the 700Nm of torque and going from zero to 100km/h in less than four seconds, the car can also reach speeds of up to 320km/h.

The DB11 will be significantly cheaper than the Lamborghini Aventador S as it is priced at HK$3.58 million.

Watch the video of Gafencu taking the DB11 for a test drive round Hong Kong here: www.igafencu.com

Porsche Panamera

Porsche is continuing with its four-door theme and has unveiled a brand new model of the Panamera.

But, don’t be fooled by the fact that it doesn’t look as sharp as the Lamborghini Aventador S and Aston Martin DB11 as the Panamera has a top speed of 264km/h.

The car comes with a 550hp, four-litre V8 Panamera Turbo or a 440hp, 2.9-litre V6 Panamera 4S.

If you’re interested in the Panamera, it will cost you HK$1.46 million.

Ferrari GTC4Lusso T V8

Ferrari has been producing luxury sport cars for decades now and they have gone with a different look when it comes to their newest model, the GTC4Lusso T V8.

Make no mistake, the car still comes with all the normal bells and whistles you expect from Ferrari as it features a V8 engine that is capable of pumping out an incredible 760Nm of torque.

The GTC4Lusso T V8 is capable of going from zero to 100km/h in just 3.5 seconds and has a maximum speed of 320km/h. How’s that for you speed lovers!

Surprisingly, the GTC5Lusso T V8 will only cost HK$2.32 million.

BMW 5 Series (520d, 530i and 540i)

The seventh generation of the BMW 5 series is one to look out for if you prefer a more classic look.

With adaptive LED headlights, this series is “the most innovative and connected business sedan”, according to spokeswoman Katherine Ng.

“Its many intelligent functions are adopted from the BMW 7 Series, such as gesture control, wireless charging, voice command, and a display key,” she adds.

The 520d, which costs HK$569,000, comes with a 1,995cc 4-cylinder engine and has 184hp.

As for the 530i, both the luxury and sport edition have a 1,998cc 4-cylinder and boast 252hp. In regards to the price, the luxury edition costs HK$789,000, while the sport edition is slightly cheaper at HK$739,000.

Meanwhile, the 540i is by far the best of the lot as it possesses a 2,998cc 6-cylinder engine and has 340hp. With the upgrades in features, it is no surprise that it is the priciest model at HK$989,000.

For more stories from Gafencu on cars, visit: gafencunew.ktmlabs.com/shop/lifestyle/wheels/

Written by Bimal Mirwani

Watch Gafencu take the new Aston Martin DB11 for a test drive

Almost unbelievably, the DB11 is Aston Martin’s first all-new car in around a decade, replacing the DB9 as the grand tourer (GT) in Aston’s line-up.

The DB11 is powered by a twin v12 engine and has 600 brake horsepower, up 83 over the old model. Torque has been enhanced too – up 59 lb-ft to 516 and available from 1,500 all the way up to 5,000 rpm. The DB11 can make the sprint to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds, 0.7 quicker than the DB9. Top speed is 200 mph.

We took the DB11 for a test drive round Hong Kong.

DB Debut

Aston Martin’s recent gala cocktail event at the Upper House in Admiralty proved an apt celebration of the debut of the marque’s 5.2-litre, twin-turbocharged, V12, 600-bhp DB11 car.