Aston Martin DB9 Sport

What is new? Ever because the Aston Martin DB9 won its first Autocar group test a few years back, the car has long been favourite of ours. Gorgeous styling, luxurious cabin, brilliant engine noise, simple driving and quality of build have all won it fans. But there’s always been a mild debate in regards to the ride and handling on UK roads. Is that the ride sufficiently composed for any GT? Is that the steering sufficiently responsive? And it is there enough traction? Privately, even Aston high-ups admit the springs and dampers could possibly be improved. Which explains why a brand new Sport pack is now a £2495 factory-fit option upon the coupé, which has either a manual or auto ’box. The pack provides you lightweight wheels that save 1. 5kg per corner, stiffer springs, a thicker front anti-roll bar and an alloy ‘shear’ panel bolted beneath the front subframe. What is it like? Sharper steering is that the most obvious improvement, so where a DB9’s steering is mildly anaesthetised, the Sport pack adds feel and responsiveness on turn-in. Even at lower speeds it’s noticeable, translating into greater driver confidence. As you’d expect, stiffer springs enliven the low-speed ride, but there’s surprising compliance over bigger bumps. Its lively character is maintained upon the motorway ; keener drivers will adore its edge, but those looking for a far more relaxing ride won’t be so enamoured. That lively character defines the back-road drive, too, the car working the driver hard and demanding constant input. Should I buy one? We’ve previously described the DB9 like a gentleman’s hot rod. The Sport pack simply causes it to be even hotter and all the greater enjoyable. Aston Martin DB9 Sport