Aston Martin DB11 Volante - Is it the best convertible GT?

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The DB11 becomes even more striking in open-topped Volante form. Jonathan Crouch takes a look at what's on offer.

The DB11, Aston Martin's consummate sporting luxury GT, becomes even more desirable in open-topped Volante form. It's stiffer, more sophisticated and even more beautiful than its predecessor. In short, you'd like one.

Background
As we've said previously in evaluating the coupe DB11, this model will almost certainly prove to be the most important car in Aston Martin's history. And that means it also needs to be available in this Volante open-topped form.

Lighter and more rigid than the model it replaces, this convertible derivative has been engineered to deliver a much broader envelope of abilities than previous cabrio Aston Martins could offer. Greater levels of performance and handling accentuate the more sporting side of its character, while increased refinement, comfort and interior space ensure it remains a consummate grand tourer.

Driving Experience
Aston Martin launched this Volante derivative with the engine most DB11 buyers want, the 4.0-litre V8 the brand has borrowed from Mercedes-AMG (the same as that used in the Mercedes-AMG GT) which puts out 510bhp. 62mph from rest takes about 4 seconds and the top speed is 187mph. Drive is dealt with via a super-smooth paddleshift eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox mounted at the rear and driving the rear wheels. And there's a drive mode control system that independently controls the powertrain and the chassis via 'GT', 'Sport' and 'Sport Plus' options, all of which are quite viable for road use.

There's definitely something about the gloriously fearsome bark of the twin-turbocharged engine when it barks into life - or at least there is if you start it in 'full woofle' mode; there's also a 'quiet start' option, should you want to make a soft getaway. That noise is instrumental in preparing you for a unique experience as you nose out into the traffic. A thoroughbred sportscar deserves a thoroughbred engine and this is exactly that, with an exhilarating roar under hard acceleration, yet with a growl that becomes muted and melodic when cruising.

Design and Build
Visually, the DB11 Volante features the same striking single-piece aluminium bonnet and innovative 'Curlicue' aerodynamic styling that distinguishes the DB11 Coupe. The profile is beautifully sleek and completed by dramatic ultra-slim 'light blade' tail lights that create a bold C graphic for a distinctive night time illuminated signature. Inside, the finishing is of course equally exquisite, with wood or carbon fibre veneer panels on the seat backs. Through the wheel, you view a fully digital instrument panel and there's a proper start button with keyless go, rather than the previous Aston system that required you to clunkily put an 'emotional control unit' key into the dash.

As you'd expect, the fabric hood is beautifully tailored and fashioned from the very latest acoustic and insulation materials, with an 8-layer construction to cosset occupants from the extremes of weather and wind noise. It's available in a choice of bordeaux red, black silver or grey silver and has a class-leading rear stack height. the hood takes just 14 seconds to lower and 16 seconds to close and can be operated remotely from the key, or on the move at speeds of up to 31mph with a 31mph headwind. A cleverer folding system has also led to a 20% gain in boot volume compared to the previous DB9 Volante.