Although still decked out in heavy layers of camouflage, the Vantage differs considerably from the outgoing model and indeed the DB11, with a more low slug appearance and styling hints derived from the DB10 used in the James Bond film, Spectre.

According to reports, the pictured prototype is said to be wearing its final production sheet metal and fittings, and like the DB11 will shelve the Ford based engines for a AMG sourced 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8. No output figures have yet been released, but expect it to be a fraction less than the DB11's 375 kW and 695 Nm.

Performance figures are likely to eclipse those of the current Vantage, with a top speed in excess of 300 km/h and 0-100 km/h below 4.5 seconds. As for transmission options, Aston Martin is expected to retain the six-speed manual gearbox as standard fitment, with a seven-speed AMG dual-clutch or ZF eight-speed automatic optional.

A Vantage V12 is also expected to debut later using the DB11's 5.2-litre bi-turbo mill, although again with reduced power and torque to avoid model overlapping. The final production Vantage will make its official debut near year end with a speculated starting price in the UK of £94 995.