In 2003, Aston Martin released the DB9. The DB9 debuted the brand’s VH Architecture, which would then go on to form the basis of the rest of Aston’s range. But more than that, the DB9 would also become a car that was central to my teenage years. For 10 year old me, the DB9 was the most beautiful, and therefore the best car in the world. My admiration for it became an addiction and soon a passion. Before the DB9 my only exposure to the Aston Martin brand was through James Bond films.
Fast forward 12 years and two major facelifts, in 2015 the DB9 has reached the end of its run, almost. To send off one of Aston’s most successful models in its 102 year history, they’ve added two more letters to its name; GT. The DB9 GT adds more power, more kit, and more desirability to the ageing DB9. You could almost think of it as a revitalised Virage, you know that car Aston tried to fit in-between the DB9 and DBS?
Power is up from 510bhp/375kW to 540bhp/397kW and has 640NM of torque. Who said naturally aspirated V12s didn’t have life left in them? Power is sent to the rear-wheels via Aston’s tried-and-tested Touchtronic II 6-speed auto and 0-100 km/h is done in 4.5 seconds. Top speed is just shy of 300 km/h. Anything more than that would be getting too close to Vanquish territory.
The DB9 GT retains the independent double wish suspension all around remains, while drivers will able to select between Normal, Sport, and Track modes on the Adaptive Damping System (ADS).
Changes to exterior have been minimal, but then why change something as pretty as the DB9 in the first place? Changes include; a black splitter, rear diffuser and brake callipers, bespoke ten-spoke 20-inch alloys, revised headlight and taillights, and of course some ‘GT’ badges.
Inside, the laughable 2+2 seating remains though they’re now embroidered with ‘GT’. As you can imagine there are many, many options available including a One-77-inspired steering wheel. The biggest change inside is Aston’s new AMi II touch-sensistive infotainment system. AMi II builds on from the original AMi system debuted in the Vanquish. Aston now says there’s more personalisation and it’s easier to use. The AMi II will also be featured in the updated Vantage and Rapide-S lineups.
The DB9 GT is set to go on sale later this year before its turbocharged replacement comes next year. Despite its age and the newer rivals it has to compete with, the DB9 still remains a car I desperately want. And I’m sure that won’t change long after it’s gone.
