The automotive world is abuzz with the latest spy shots of the Aston Martin Vanquish S a car that promises to be a true beast on the road. This high-performance variant of the Vanquish has been caught testing with an unconventional exhaust setup that has left enthusiasts and critics alike scratching their heads. The car’s eight tailpipes are not just a styling quirk but a potential game-changer in terms of performance and aerodynamics.
The Vanquish S is not new to the testing circuit, having been spotted earlier this year at the Nurburgring in May. However, this latest prototype has taken the unusual route of experimenting with multiple exhaust configurations. The standard Vanquish’s familiar exhaust tips remain, but the S model adds another pair between the rear wheels and a set of high-mounted pipes above the bumper. This raises intriguing questions about the car’s design philosophy and its impact on trunk space and heat management.
The Enigma of the Vanquish S’s Exhaust Design
The high-mounted exhausts on the Vanquish S are not entirely unprecedented, with brands like Ferrari and McLaren having experimented with similar designs. However, these applications typically involve mid-engined cars where the luggage compartment is safely located at the front. The Vanquish, with its trunk directly behind the V12 engine, presents a unique challenge. How will the elevated pipework affect cargo room? How will Aston Martin shield luggage from the heat? And how will owners manage the potential for exhaust grime on their expensive attire?
Despite these concerns, the lower central pair of exhausts seems to be the most likely candidate for the production model. Whichever configuration Aston Martin ultimately chooses, the new bumpers and aerodynamic parts will not only enhance track performance but also ensure the car turns heads on the street.
The Powerhouse: Valen-Tuned V12 Engine
The heart of the Vanquish S is its 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 engine which is expected to receive a tune from the new limited edition Valen. The Valen, unveiled during Monterey Car Week on August 14, 2026, holds the title of the world’s most powerful front-engined production car. With a power output of 838 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, the Valen’s engine is a significant upgrade over the standard Vanquish’s 824 hp and identical torque figure.
The Valen’s engine is coupled with a familiar ZF eight-speed automatic transmission which has been revised with new shifter strategies developed from the Aston Martin Vantage GT4 race program. These enhancements allow the Valen to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds and reach an impressive top speed of 214 mph (344 km/h). The car also offers multiple driving modes, including Sport, Sport+, and Track, which adjust the throttle mapping for an exhilarating driving experience.
The Valen’s Lightweighting Focus
Aston Martin has spared no effort in reducing the Valen’s weight, resulting in a car that is 110 kg (242 lbs) lighter than its standard counterpart. This weight savings is achieved through the liberal use of carbon fiber, aluminum, magnesium, and titanium. For those seeking an even lighter and more engaging experience, a special lightweight pack is available, which includes machined-aluminum suspension arms, knuckles, and new titanium chassis bolts, cutting an additional 16.9 kg (37 kg).
The Valen’s aggressive design is a testament to Aston Martin’s commitment to performance and aesthetics. The car’s ferocious-looking front end, sharp carbon fiber bumper, and splitter combo, along with its dramatic rear featuring a large fixed rear lip spoiler, diffuser, and LED light bar, make it the most aggressive model in the brand’s current lineup. The interior is equally impressive, with new Sports Plus seats and bespoke options that cater to the discerning tastes of its future owners.
Only 150 examples of the Valen will be built, each starting at approximately $2 million before bespoke options are added. The Vanquish S, with its unique exhaust design and powerful V12 engine, is set to be a true showstopper on the road and the track.
