Sneak Peek: Aston Martin DBS Volante

The upcoming Geneva Motor Show is likely to be a busy event for Aston Martin, the former Ford Motor Co. division that is expected to mark its independence with the introduction of several critical new products. For now, the company, owned primarily by Kuwaiti investors, is only talking about one hot new product: the DBS Volante.

Think of it as the ultimate fusion of a high-line luxury sports car and a cabriolet, the company suggests. “The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the hood up or down,” says Dr. Ulrich Bez, the British maker’s CEO. “It combines engineering excellence with design perfection.”

That electrically-operated fabric top will drop in a mere 14 seconds – and can be operated at speeds up to 30 miles per hour, stowing away under an automatic tonneau cover.

On paper, at least, the 2+2 DBS Volante is a four-seater. But in practical terms, even your kids would likely get cranky sitting in those “occasional” back seats for more than a short drive.

A hand-built 6.0-liter V-12 will make an impressive 510 horsepower and 420 pounds of torque, which is enough to launch from zero to 60 in just 4.3 seconds. Top speed is an Autobahn-blistering 191 mph. The engine is mated to a ear-mounted six-speed manual, though a six-speed automatic gearbox with Touchtronic is one of the relative few options offered on the DBS Volante.

Carbon-ceramic brakes are standard. Meanwhile, Aston has adopted lightweight carbon fiber for a variety of uses on the new convertible, including the hood, front wings and trunk lid. The chassis is formed from light yet high-strength aluminum.

Among the other niceties: a Band and Olufson DBS sound system, with an integrated iPod connector. There’s even a Lamy pen and holder – but only with the automatic gearbox. If you’re driving a stick, you’ll have to get your own. But when would you need it?