Used 2012 Aston Martin DBS Volante Convertible Review & Ratings

Aston Martin has added yet another astounding vehicle to its lineup for 2102; the drop-top DBS Volante is set to take center stage by the first or early second quarter of the year. The 2012 DBS convertible Volante sports car is outfitted with a much more spruced interior and a very colorful exterior, which is bound to win the heart of the most discerning sports car enthusiasts. For 2012, the DBS Volante unveils an updated and upgraded DBS Carbon Black edition, which was originally introduced in 2009. It is composed with lightweight materials, such as a carbon fiber hood and front fenders to improve overall performance.

Like its 2011 predecessor, the 2012 DBS Volante is equipped with the robust hand-built 5.9-liter V-12 engine, which renders 420 pound-feet of torque and a whopping 510 horsepower. It is still powered by a six-speed manual transmission with an optional "Touchtronic" six-speed automatic transmission. For speed critics, the 2011 DBS Volante V12 literally flew from zero to 100 mph in just 4.3 seconds, which simply proves that it is still remains an improvised speed demon.

The 2012 Aston Martin DBS Volante sports car is refined example of beauty and grace inside and out. But, since this newly upgraded DBS Volante will still be tested when it comes out in the market next year, the similarities in terms of performance with its pedigree is yet to be determined. As per reviews of the same V-12 engine, the 2011 edition of the DBS Volante encountered some hitches with its performance. Difficult maneuvering for the 2011 DBS Volante during its lower gear or even in reverse was experienced. The 5.9-liter V-12 produces a very masculine sound when on the road, but a whirring hum can be heard inside when its unique retractable top is overlapping the interior. This is not your typical convertible top that you'll never want to take the time to put down either; it only requires 14 seconds for this lightweight roof to be retracted at a speed of 30 mph.

The DBS Volante Convertible isn't all about speed and turning heads though. As a driver, you will appreciate an ample number of safety features, including high pressure headlamps, four-wheel antilock brakes, engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitoring, emergency braking assist and stability and traction control.

If you are going to splurge on a DBS, it is hard not to go head and get the convertible as the price tag is only about $15,000 higher than the coupe, with the Base starting at $290,461 and the Black Carbon coming in at $295,987.