2023 Aston Martin DB11 Volante Review: Beyond Beautiful - Still.
There are beautiful cars, and then there's the 2023 Aston Martin DB11 Volante, which does the impossible - improve on the stunning DB11 Coupe simply by lopping off the roof. In a class where outright performance isn't everything, the Aston Martin DB11 Volante has more than half the battle won. Unlike its coupe sibling, the Volante is only available with a twin-turbo V8 and not the mighty V12, but this doesn't really matter because the V8 delivers satisfying performance while offering a dynamic driving experience. There's 528 horsepower and 513 lb-ft of torque on tap to send the DB11 Volante to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, all from the opulence of a first-class cabin. Drop the top, and you'll have the wind in your hair, the V8's lovely soundtrack in your ears, and the blissfulness that comes with having an Aston Martin beneath your fingertips. But competitors to the DB11 Volante are just as pedigreed, with the Bentley Continental GT Convertible and the Ferrari Portofino to consider. So, is the British drop-top the one to spend your money on?
What's the Price of the 2023 Aston Martin DB11 Volante?
The Aston Martin DB11 Volante carries an MSRP upwards of $233k, excluding a destination charge. It's worth noting that pricing can differ markedly based on options specified, dealership specs, and the exchange rate at the time of ordering. The V8-powered Bentley Continental GT Convertible is marginally cheaper, with the Ferrari Portofino asking for the least among these rivals.
2023 Aston Martin DB11 Volante Handling and Driving Impressions
Grand tourers aren't expected to be the sharpest handling vehicles around, and there's even less expectation when they lose their tops, but the DB11 debunks the myth that large drop-top sports cars are sloppy and suffer from scuttle shake. Thanks to the absence of that lumpy V12 engine, the DB11 carries less weight and, with a responsive V8 under the hood, feels nippy and eager to please. Turn-in is impressively sharp and enthusiastic, and there's loads of grip on offer. Leave the soft top up, and you'd barely be able to tell that you're driving a convertible, and even with the tip down, rigidity remains top-notch. We did notice that road noise is a bit more intrusive than it is in the Bentley Continental GT, but it's still at a very refined level. As a sports car, the DB11 entertains, but it's better as a cruiser and highway bomber. With the suspension in its softest setting, the DB11 Volante is massively comfortable while still feeling sharp; it's the perfect daily driver for those that can afford it.
Verdict: Is The 2023 Aston Martin DB11 Volante A Good car?
The DB11 platform has proven to be more than just a huge improvement over the old DB9, and in Volante guise, culminates in a well-balanced sports car that is captivating to look at as well as drive. It's not compromised by losing the roof, which means that it ticks boxes for style and handling, and with a powerful V8 under the hood, it nails performance too. Where it does slack off a bit is in terms of rear-seat space and tech for the infotainment system. Rivals from Bentley also feel a little more solid in terms of build quality but can't touch the beauty of the Aston - at least, in our opinion. Buyers shopping in this segment aren't reading reviews of the Aston Martin DB11 Volante for safety scores or cargo space, though. It's a decision you make with your heart, and in this case, the DB11 Volante is love at first sight.
What Aston Martin DB11 Volante Model Should I Buy?
With only one trim to choose from, it initially appears that choosing your ideal Volante would be easy. That's far from the case with the massive range of colors and upholsteries to choose from. Premium audio and ventilated front seats are two options that we would definitely consider. We'd also go for the luxurious Inspire interior environment with its semi-aniline leather.