The Bentley Continental GT Convertible is even more solidly screwed together, too. But, because we're not playing the role of casual observer, we also have to tell you about the DB11's flaws: the rear seats offer non-existent space, the infotainment system feels outdated, and it's noisier than a GT should be. So yes, the turbocharged V8 ensures a rapid turn of speed and does just enough to avoid excessively mourning the V12, it handles more sharply than before, and it's absolutely stunning to look at. And, while much has changed from the DB9 Volante to the DB11 Volante, this is a convertible that stays true to public perception of what an Aston should be.
#Db11 volante driver
Overall, the Volante strikes a fine balance between engaging the driver over a twisty stretch but proving comfortable over longer distances.Ī cursory survey of how the average man in the street would describe an Aston Martin would likely conjure up descriptions such as: beautiful, powerful, glamorous, and expensive.
#Db11 volante plus
Leaving the suspension in its softest setting and combining that with the powertrain in Sport Plus mode provides what is probably the best combination of responsiveness and comfort. Despite the Aston's weight, the quick and precise steering makes it feel lighter than it is - only the convertible's width requires extra caution in the city.
Road noise does intrude more than in a Bentley, though. Drop the roof, and besides the increase in wind noise, the car remains rigid and the ride pleasingly compliant. When the fabric roof is raised, there is little to indicate that it isn't a regular hard-top, as chassis shimmy is largely absent. Carrying less weight over the front axle endows the DB11 Volante with crisper responses and, as a whole, the car feels sporty, controllable, and lighter on its adaptive dampers than the earlier V12 coupe. Things have improved, and the lighter V8 engine is part of the reason why. Initially launched only as a V12-engined coupe, the DB11 wasn't quite as precise as expected, and the powerful engine often proved too much for the rear wheels to manage. That's serious company, but the DB11 Volante ends up striking a neat balance between the sporty Ferrari and the more luxurious Bentley. At over $200,000, it competes with the likes of the Ferrari Portofino and the Bentley Continental GT Convertible. The DB11 Volante exudes all the glamor expected of an Aston convertible when you lower that soft-top, with a pleasing V8 burble and an opulent, leather-lined cabin combining for a most pleasurable driving experience. Compared with its direct predecessor, the DB9 Volante, the new drop-top is both lighter and stiffer, improving its handling. Unlike the coupe, the Volante is only available with a V8 engine, not a V12 - it's good for 528 horsepower thanks to twin turbocharging, though, which is enough to see the Volante reach 62 mph in just 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 192 mph. Enter the DB11 Volante, the convertible version of Aston's DB11, the British marque's replacement for the DB9. How does one improve on the impossible beauty of the Aston Martin DB11? Simple - just drop the top.