2009 Aston Martin DBS Volante at Geneva

Aston Martin has revealed arguably the world’s most stunning convertible today as it previews the new DBS Volante before its public debut at the Geneva motor show.

Completing the DBS line-up, the new Volante combines Aston Martin’s current benchmark performance car with the feel good lifestyle of open air driving.

Opting for a motorised retractable fabric roof, the DBS’ iconic profile is preserved whether up or down – a process which takes just 14 seconds at the touch of a button, disappearing completely under the newly sculpted tonneau.

Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the hood up or down. It combines engineering excellence with design perfection.

Power is provided by a familiar 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 380kW and 570Nm with a top speed of 307km/h and zero to 100 km/h time of 4.3 seconds.

This is mated to a rear-mounted six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while an automatic six-speed ‘Touchtronic’ option is also available.

“The DBS Volante offers a subtle mix of power and performance. Adding to this, the fine craftsmanship – it is an unparalleled ownership and driving experience.”

As with the coupe, carbon ceramic brakes are also offered as standard, along with materials derived from its motorsport involvement with the bonnet, front wings and boot lid made from carbon fibre to reduce weight.

Unlike its hardtop sibling, the DBS Volante is a 2+2 featuring two occasional rear seats, ideal for young people or extra luggage.

It also features Bang & Olufsen’s renowned ‘BeoSound DBS’ in-car entertainment system with 13 speakers developed specifically for the DBS Volante, which can sense whether the roof is down and adjust the sound to compensate for extra wind noise.

The DBS Volante will be built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters at Gaydon, Warwickshire with customer deliveries expected to commence during quarter three 2009.