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New Vantage Roadster: Engineered for Real Drivers, Designed for Open Air Thrills

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top-angle front-three-quarter shot of a 2025 Vantage Roadster driven on the road

Aston Martin has introduced the new Vantage Roadster, a convertible stablemate of the world-beating Vantage Coupe. Launched in 2024, the new Vantage continued the marque’s shift in sector defining luxury and dynamic credentials, far exceeding the capabilities and engagement of any Vantage before. Now, Vantage Roadster arrives to enhance the real driving experience even further.

Powered by the Aston Martin 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine delivering 665PS/800Nm, Vantage Roadster brings all the class leading performance, dynamic sensations and visual excitement of the coupe, with an additional dimension of top-down freedom and thrills for those addicted to open air motoring. Vantage Roadster brings a new level of emotion to the already unforgettable driving experience, broadening still the phenomenal appeal of this quintessential, yet state-of-the-art British sports car.

New Vantage Roadster has been designed to offer all the style, sense of freedom and adventure for which convertibles are known, but without the limitations traditionally inherent in their design. As beautiful as its hard top companion, with minimal weight increase and the fastest operating fully automatic roof on the market, Vantage Roadster is a convertible without compromise and a worthy new member of the Vantage family.

It continues a tradition of open top Aston Martin Vantage models that date back 75 years to the launch of the Vantage engine upgrade pack for the DB2 (available both as a coupe – known as a saloon – and convertible – known as drophead coupe) in 1950, which featured larger carburettors and a higher compression ratio to raise power for the 2.6-litre twin cam engine from 105bhp to a heady 125bhp.

This year, Aston Martin is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the 2005 introduction of the V8 Vantage. The first Gaydon-built ‘modern’ Aston Martin to use the name and the first Vantage to be a distinct model in its own right, rather than a derivative, with its own Roadster version arriving just one year later.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Hallmark, said: “The technical and dynamic capability of New Vantage delivered outstanding performance; far beyond any other preceding Vantage and it is now seen as a true class leading sports car. Vantage Roadster was no different feat in that it is a fully reinvented experience, with all the benefits of the Coupe and no compromise to refinement or performance through meticulous work by our engineering and dynamics teams. Vantage Roadster delivers a world-class roof-down driving experience like no other.”

Engineering

Key to Vantage Roadster’s ability to retain the crucial dynamic attributes of Vantage Coupe is that both cars were designed and engineered in parallel rather than in sequence, the Roadster therefore being a fully developed model in its own right, allowing the team to implement features and attributes that result in zero compromises to performance, ride and handling and excessive additional weight.

Compared to the previous Vantage Roadster, Aston Martin’s bespoke 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine has seen power and torque rise by an unprecedented 155PS and 115Nm thanks to larger turbochargers, revised camshaft profiles and an optimised compression ratio. With a total of 665PS and an incredible 800Nm of torque running through an eight-speed paddle-shift transmission to an electronically controlled limited slip differential driving the rear wheels alone, Vantage Roadster combines explosive performance (0-60mph in 3.5seconds, top speed 202mph) and state-of-the-art technology within the classic, front engine, rear-wheel drive configuration adored by those who simply love to drive. With thanks to a retractable roof, even more of the inimitable V8 thunder can be heard by occupants, emanating from under Vantage’s dramatically sloping bonnet and exhaust tail pipes.

Thanks to its ultra-stiff yet lightweight aluminium structure, composite body panels and 49:51 front to rear weight distribution, Vantage Roadster provides the ideal platform for the suspension to act upon. Featuring race-inspired unequal length double wishbones at the front, a multi-link rear axle, coil springs and Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers (with a bespoke tune), along with a non-isolated steering column, Vantage Roadster provides the precision, balance, poise and, above all, the confidence that are the unmistakable hallmarks of the truly great high performance driver’s car.

front-angle shot of a 2025 Vantage Roadster parked outdoors

Brake discs measuring 410mm at the front (with carbon ceramic brakes) clamped by six piston monoblock calipers ensure Vantage Roadster can shed speed even more rapidly than it is gained – and do so repeatedly. The necessary grip is provided by bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tyres, specially developed by Michelin and tuned by Aston Martin with a compound tailored to the specific requirements of the Vantage. These provide not just superlative grip in both dry and wet conditions but also outstanding steering feel and progressive breakaway characteristics.

All of this hardware is supported by an electronic architecture using six axis sensors, capable of creating an astonishingly detailed overview of precisely how the car is behaving, allowing the ESP system to adopt optimal settings both for the road conditions and the style in which the car is being driven. In addition, Vantage Roadster carries over the innovative Advanced Traction Control system from the Vantage Coupe, allowing the driver to choose one of eight settings for the traction control; the default setting of five is optimised for achieving the fastest, cleanest laps. The lower the number the greater the level of intervention, providing an additional level of reassurance and safety in, for example, adverse weather conditions, while drivers wishing to hone their skills most likely on track have the option to turn traction control off and experience the car free of any electronic influence.

From the outset several measures were designed into the structure of Vantage Roadster to ensure the Vantage spirit, astonishing ability and love of the open road were passed across from Coupe to Roadster in undiluted form. To do this, two primary goals, traditionally seen as diametrically opposed objectives, were given top priority from the start. These were to keep the Roadster as light as possible relative to the Coupe and to maintain structural rigidity at an outstandingly high level for a convertible car.

These include identifying the load paths through the structure and body and modifying the way the body is attached at the back of the car to add additional stiffness relative to the Coupe. In addition, weight-optimised shear panels have been added in strategic positions to laterally stiffen the structure further even than the Coupe in order to offset the reduction in rigidity inherent in any convertible car.

The roof itself comes in ‘Z-fold’ configuration, which is both faster and lighter than a traditional ‘K-fold’ roof and removes the requirement for a tonneau cover, further saving weight and lowering the centre of gravity. The roof on Vantage Roadster can be opened or closed at any speed up to 31mph (50km/h) with the entire roof fold operation (open or closed) taking just 6.8sec – the fastest fully automatic deployable roof mechanism on the market today. Additionally, this slick operation can be performed when seated in the car or remotely via the key, so long as the operator is within a two-metre radius of the car.

front three-quarter shot of two 2025 Vantage Roadsters parked outdoors

Despite the extraordinary speed of the roof operation and its lightweight design, no sacrifice to refinement has been made. The roof comprises no fewer than eight levels of insulation ensuring that cabin sound levels with the roof up are comparable to those of Vantage coupe.

The Z-fold action results in a simpler and therefore lighter roof, leading to Vantage Roadster delivering an overall weight increase of just 60kg, an outstanding achievement – and class leading – for a car in this category.

Even the roll-over structure has been carefully optimised to be both as strong and lightweight as possible. The aluminium Roll-Over and Protection System (ROPS) is formed using a process called ‘Castrusion’ for the way it combines optimal elements from both casting and extrusion to create a system that is robust, light and simple to package.

Finally, attention has also been paid to the suspension system to account both for the change in mass and weight distribution. Minimal though these changes are, the fact that Vantage Roadster has recalibrated software for its rear dampers and retuned mountings for its rear mounted gearbox just shows the lengths Aston Martin engineers go to in order to ensure a full measure of the legendary Vantage handling prowess is carried over from Coupe to Roadster.

Simon Newton, Director of Vehicle Performance, said “Vantage made headlines last year for the huge increases in power and torque over the outgoing model, and the vivid way in which it deployed such immense performance completely seduced enthusiasts and purists alike. Developing both Vantage Coupe and Roadster simultaneously meant we were able to retain the outrageous dynamic capabilities and agile sporting character of Vantage with no compromise upon removal of the roof, allowing drivers to revel at the limit with the added exposure to the elements. This has been achieved from meticulous optimisations in the body structure combined with Roadster specific chassis tuning carried out by our skilled dynamics team and is the perfect stablemate to its Coupe cohort.”

top-angle side profile shot of a 2025 Vantage Roadster driven on the road

Design

It was essential that all of the visceral impact and beauty of Vantage Coupe was retained for Vantage Roadster, and that it should retain its stunning lines whether the roof is in its raised or lowered position. So successfully has this been achieved that when the roof is stowed Vantage Roadster looks like it was never designed to be anything else. The dramatically angled windscreen joins with the car’s high waistline to create a proportionally perfect thoroughbred sports car profile.

The roof stows seamlessly behind the seats with no need for a bulky and heavy tonneau cover while the bootlid deck slopes gently downwards until it meets the dramatic upkick of the distinctive rear spoiler. The widened stance introduced on the coupe is retained on Roadster, as is the increased aperture of the signature Aston Martin grille; an object lesson in how to combine beauty with function, with the large grille increasing air flow the powerful engine by almost 30 per cent.

With a spectacular canvas to create a sporting masterpiece, three new paint colours – Iridescent Sapphire, Satin Iridescent Sapphire and Bronze Flare have been added to the paint palette, while the Vantage Roadster’s roof can be specified in Black, Red, Blue or Black and Silver. To enhance the cars sporting character further still, a selection of painted liveries can also be applied in a choice of 21 complementary colours. There are four 21” wheel styles, available in a range of finishes, behind which can be seen one of seven different colour choices of brake calipers.

Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer, said: “This new Vantage Roadster is a sculptural masterpiece. The resonant roar of its engine brings its simple yet refined surface design to life, creating a connection that’s impossible to ignore. Its form exudes beauty, its athletic stance conveys predatory intent, and its sound delivers a visceral, sensory experience. Created as both art and performance, the engine’s sound amplifies this balance, turning the auditory experience into an essential part of the journey. With the roof down, the soundscape becomes as dynamic as the design, blending simplicity, power, and a visceral connection that transcends driving into an unmatched sensory experience.”

Like all Aston Martin models, Vantage customers can explore endless bespoke and customisation possibilities via the Q by Aston Martin personalisation service. Enlisting the skills of Q’s designers and crafts people, customers take an unforgettable personal commissioning journey that can encompass everything from a single small distinguishing detail to full-scale engineering and production of entirely bespoke components to create a true one-off.

top-angle rear-three-quarter shot of a 2025 Vantage Roadster driven on the road

Vantage Roadster, like its Coupe counterpart, is the latest model to feature Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment. Created in-house and first introduced on DB12, it is entirely bespoke and developed in-house from scratch. The system combines a fully integrated multi-screen system with full online connectivity, featuring 10.25” Pure Black touchscreen technology with full capacitive single and multi-finger gesture control. Touchscreen commands remain balanced with the tactility of physical switches, with buttons retained for the key mechanical operations of gear selection, drive selection, heating and ventilation. There are also control switches for Chassis, ESP and Exhaust, Active Safety System settings and Park Distance Control, ensuring the most used controls can be operated intuitively and without the need to take your eyes off the road. Supplemented by a new Aston Martin customer connectivity app which supports iOS and Android devices, it allows interaction, control and feedback to and from the customer’s Vantage via their personal device.

Vantage Roaster is fitted as standard with the Aston Martin 390w 11 speaker audio system. Developed utilising advanced hardware, this system features a Surround sound mode with QuantumLogic® surround sound processing for an immersive soundscape. However, if a musical soundtrack to the drive is deemed truly significant, some customers will delight in the optional system developed with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Acoustically engineered to the Vantage Roadster’s interior volume and shape, this exceptional system uses technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins’ acclaimed world-class loudspeakers.

Vantage Roadster deliveries will commence in Q2 2025. It joins its Coupe sibling, the DB12 and DB12 Volante, the stunning new Vanquish and, of course the Supercar of SUVs, DBX707 as well as the forthcoming Valhalla supercar to form unquestionably the most capable, comprehensive and desirable product line up in the 112-year history of the Aston Martin marque.

Automotive

Gargash Motors Debuts Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio Super Sport, Bespoke Edizione Program in the UAE

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Gargash Motors, one of the largest distributors of luxury performance cars in the UAE and the official distributor of Alfa Romeo in the country, has unveiled the Quadrifoglio Super Sport, a limited-edition series that pays homage to Alfa Romeo’s rich motorsport heritage. This exclusive launch also marks the UAE debut of the Bespoke Edizione Program, a premium customization service from Gargash Motors that allows Alfa Romeo enthusiasts to personalize their vehicles like never before.

The unveiling was a milestone moment  for automotive collectors and Alfa Romeo enthusiasts, Gargash Motors unveiled the Giulia & Stelvio Quadrifoglio Super Sport Bespoke Edizione, blending high-performance engineering with a distinctive, tailor-made touch. This event marked the official launch of the Bespoke Edizione program in the UAE, offering an exclusive customization experience. Adding to the excitement, Gargash Motors surprised attendees with one-of-a-kind Bespoke Edizione models, including the Giulia Competizione, Tonale Veloce, and Stelvio Quadrifoglio 100th Anniversary.

Morgan Sunderland, General Manager at Gargash Motors, commented on the launch: “At Gargash Motors, our vision has always been to bring world-class automotive experiences to the UAE by blending heritage with innovation. The launch of the Quadrifoglio Super Sport Bespoke Edizione is a testament to this commitment, celebrating Alfa Romeo’s storied motorsport legacy while catering to the UAE’s deep appreciation for high-performance vehicles. With the introduction of the Bespoke Edizione program, we are elevating the customization experience, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to own truly one-of-a-kind vehicles that reflect their individuality. This exclusive edition is more than just a car—it’s a statement of passion, craftsmanship, and excellence. We are proud to offer our customers a driving experience that seamlessly fuses Italian artistry with cutting-edge engineering.”

Exclusivity Meets Performance

Powered by a 2.9-liter V6 engine producing 510 hp, the Quadrifoglio Super Sport offers an unparalleled driving experience, combining best-in-class agility, optimal weight balance, and razor-sharp handling. For the first time in Alfa Romeo history, the iconic Quadrifoglio emblem features a bold black background, symbolizing the brand’s relentless pursuit of performance.

The Super Sport is available in three eye-catching exterior colors: Etna Red, Vulcano Black, and Alfa White, enhanced by carbon fiber accents on the mirrors, grille, and roof, black calipers, and black alloy wheels. Equipped with Carbon Ceramic Brakes, it ensures superior braking performance. Inside, you’ll find red exposed carbon fiber details and contrasting red stitching, further elevating its dynamic character.

The Super Sport Bespoke Edizione – A New Level of Customization

For those seeking an even more tailored experience, Gargash Motors introduces the Super Sport Bespoke Edizione, an enhanced version featuring a Titanium Akrapovic Exhaust (+10 hp), GTAm OEM rear spoiler, carbon fiber diffuser, hood vents with green stripes, and bespoke two-tone wheels with green-painted calipers. Each model in this exclusive edition is marked with a “Bespoke Edizione 1 of 1” emblem, reflecting the pinnacle of personalization.

The Bespoke Edizione Program – Customization Without Limits

Beyond the Super Sport, Gargash Motors is offering Alfa Romeo owners the Bespoke Edizione Program, a tailor-made service allowing clients to individualize their vehicles. From exterior carbon fiber elements and bespoke paintwork to personalized leather interiors and high-performance exhaust upgrades, this program redefines exclusivity across all Alfa Romeo models, including Tonale, Giulia, and Stelvio.

Availability

The Stelvio Quadrifoglio Super Sport arrives in February and the Giulia Quadrifoglio Super Sport, in March, with additional bespoke options upon request. All models come with a 7-year warranty and a 5-year service package, ensuring peace of mind for owners.

A Legacy of Motorsport Excellence

The Quadrifoglio Super Sport stands as a tribute to Alfa Romeo’s racing heritage. Combining Italian craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and race-bred performance, this limited series solidifies Alfa Romeo’s status as a benchmark for driving excellence.

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Daimler Truck MEA EliteClass 2024 Awards Celebrates Commercial Automotive Excellence

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Daimler Truck MEA EliteClass 2024 Awards

The highly anticipated EliteClass 2024 Awards Ceremony brought together 40 Daimler Truck Business Partners for a night of recognition and celebration. Held at the One&Only Royal Mirage, the prestigious black-tie event honoured top-performing General Distributors who have demonstrated exceptional performance, dedication, and commitment to excellence in 2024.

The EliteClass 2024 Awards Ceremony was the culmination of a year long EliteClass program for Middle East and Africa measuring 24 categories across the entire business spectrum for Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Daimler Buses, and Fuso Trucks & Bus.

The awards highlighted the dedication and resilience of partners who have achieved outstanding performance and a remarkable commitment to excellence, and therefore contributed significantly to Daimler Truck success in the MEA regions.

Mr. Michael Dietz emphasised the importance of collaboration and performance-driven success during his opening address: “EliteClass 2024 is more than just an awards ceremony—it is a testament to the hard work, commitment, and shared vision of our partners. Their achievements continue to drive our brand forward, setting new benchmarks in customer experience and operational excellence across the region.”

The evening was capped with the awarding of the three prestigious “EliteClass General Distributor of the Year 2024” awards:

  • EliteClass MENA Fuso Truck & Bus General Distributor of the Year 2024:
    • Al Habtoor Motors – UAE
  • EliteClass MENA Mercedes-Benz Trucks General Distributor of the Year 2024:
    • Emirates Motor Company – AbuDhabi
  • EliteClass Central Africa General Distributor of the Year 2024:
    • Akagera Business Group – Rwanda

The EliteClass 2024 Awards reaffirm the company’s commitment to excellence, continuous growth, and the recognition of partners who drive success in an evolving industry landscape.

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Automotive

AW Rostamani Trading Company and Groupauto Middle East, Africa & India Forge Strategic Partnership to Advance Automotive Aftermarket Industry

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AW Rostamani Trading Company, the strategic arm of AW Rostamani Group’s mobility services division, and Groupauto Middle East, Africa & India, a regional subsidiary of Groupauto International, have entered a strategic partnership to drive innovation and growth in the automotive aftermarket sector.

The agreement was formalised at AW Rostamani Group’s Head Office, with the signing ceremony attended by Sanaa Ouahmane, CEO of AWR Mobility Services & AWR Trading, and Mesut Urgancilar, Managing Director of Groupauto Middle East, Africa & India.

This collaboration represents a significant milestone for both entities, combining AWR Trading’s regional expertise and distribution capabilities with Groupauto’s global network spanning 33 subsidiaries and over 114 countries. By aligning strengths, both parties aim to elevate supply chain efficiencies, enhance supplier engagement, and expand market access – ultimately benefiting the broader automotive aftermarket industry in the region.

Sanaa Ouahmane, CEO of AWR Mobility & AWR Trading, commented on the partnership: “At AWR Trading, we are committed to driving innovation and expanding our capabilities within the automotive aftermarket industry. Our partnership with Groupauto Middle East, Africa & India enables us to tap into their extensive global network and supplier relationships, reinforcing our position as a leading distributor in the region. This collaboration allows us to not only enhance our access to high-quality automotive components but also bring greater efficiencies and value to our customers.”

Mesut Urgancilar, Managing Director, Groupauto Middle East, Africa & India, stated: “We are happy and honoured to enter this partnership with AWR Trading. With the strong presence and expertise of AWR Group in this region and the global automotive network of Groupauto, we look forward to synergies for both the Groups and enhanced presence in this region. Groupauto looks forward to working with AWR Trading on all aftermarket products, workshop programmes and digitalisation in line with their vision of growth and innovation.”

Through this partnership, both AWR Trading and Groupauto Middle East, Africa & India will unlock new opportunities. AWR Trading will gain optimised procurement processes and cost advantages on key brands under its distribution portfolio, while Groupauto strengthens its regional foothold and expands collaboration with a trusted and established partner in the UAE. Together, both companies are setting new benchmarks for innovation, efficiency, and customer value within the automotive aftermarket sector.

This agreement highlights AW Rostamani Group’s and Groupauto’s shared vision for strategic growth and industry leadership. By leveraging their collective expertise and resources, they aim to create a more connected and competitive aftermarket ecosystem in the Middle East and Africa.

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