What is it?
This is the latest version of Aston's DB9 drop-top, and it's the best yet. The changes are minimal but highly significant new infinitely variable Bilstein dampers, plus some minor cosmetic changes to signify the new model year. The car will run from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and hit a top speed of 190 mph.
What's it like to drive?
Like a sporty but comfortable luxury 2+2. And that's not the description you could apply to the original 2004 Volante. The secrets to this turnaround are the computer-controlled shocks and the computer control map programmed by Aston's engineers. With these on board, the DB9's chassis now breathes as it flows cross-country at high speed, making for highly rewarding and rapid progress. Body control is strong but the chassis is supple. The steering feedback is precise. To crank up the feedback levels, a sport-chassis button firms up the ride further.
Changes made for the 2010 model year are a major help. Since last year, the Volante has gained 20 hp, along with a stiffer cross-car beam and a stiffening panel under the front subframe. These beef up the structure and allow the new shocks to fully exploit the more solid underpinnings.
Do I want it?
The new DB9 Volante steps up the appeal to enthusiast drivers with a beautifully poised and balanced chassis. Maybe it can't do the hard-top/open-top thing that the Ferrari California can, but the Aston's folding mohair roof is elegant and lightweight. This new soft-top DB9 is a desirable car, indeed.
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