03 Aston Martin Db7 Conv Only 6,500 Miles Htd Seats Alpine Sound 19 Wheels 02 01 on 2040-cars

Auto blog

Xcar takes us behind the scenes of Aston Vantage video shoot

Xcar makes some of the best car videos on the internet, which is why we enjoy bringing them to your attention whenever they surface. And if you've taken the time to watch any of them, it probably won't surprise you to find out they don't just come together all on their own. Like any production, the producers at Xcar do their homework, take their time to set up, shoot and reshoot segments, and surely spend plenty of time in post-production as well. It's a labor of love, but as you can see from this latest "behind the scenes" video, it's not always pleasant. This video shows us what it was like to put together the video with the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster released a couple of months ago. The talents behind the video series took the unusual decision of filming the drop-top supercar in the sleet and snow of the Welch countryside, enduring some punishing conditions in the process... but it all proved worth the effort for the video that resulted.

Aston Martin On Ice reminds us how fun winter can be

Things are finally starting to thaw near the Autoblog headquarters in Detroit, with spring just around the corner. We're already celebrating some slightly warmer temperatures, and looking ahead to sunny days and top-down drives. But winter isn't all bad – especially for car enthusiasts. Yes, with the right formula of fresh powder and winter tires, the cold season can prove hilariously fun for folks who love to drive. In that spirit, Aston Martin hosted its second-annual (in the US, anyway) 'On Ice' program in Colorado, where owners were given the opportunity to slide around in the British automaker's wares, hanging the tails out and generally (we assume) having a blast. Rather than bore you with more details, we'll let you see all the fun that was had, in the gallery above. It almost makes us wish winter would stick around a little longer. Almost. For more information about the Aston Martin On Ice program, check out the (old) press blast below. Related Video: Aston Martin are to host their second annual ice driving program in Colorado in February, offering thrill seekers a unique driving experience in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Taking place among the dramatic Crested Butte mountain range, the 'On Ice' program gives Aston Martin enthusiasts the chance to hone their driving skills in a spectacular setting over three days. The iconic British car makers have custom built an ice track for the program, comprising a braking/cornering exercise loop, slalom, skid pad and full circuit. Under expert tuition, participants are guided through the facility, before embarking upon a series of braking, cornering and handling exercises and then putting their skills to the test on a mile-long frozen road course. Luxurious accommodations will be provided for all three days at the exclusive boutique hotel properties of the Eleven Group that are nestled in the mountains. Julian Jenkins, President of Aston Martin The Americas, said: "After this hugely successful first year we expect the On Ice program to become a mainstay of our customer experience offerings here in North America. "The ability to experience a range of our cars in a unique and controlled environment resonates with Aston Martin customers and enthusiasts who are united by a shared passion for driving." As well as the 'On Ice' driving program, guests will also have the chance to indulge in other activities including skiing and exploring the back country on a fleet of snow mobiles.

Aston Martin and Daimler continue talks on SUV project, CEO required

The Aston Martin Lagonda SUV concept revealed at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show didn't earn the plaudits the company is used to when it reveals new models, and it has lived an uncertain life ever since. Thought to have been scrapped along with the entire revival of the Lagonda brand, then thought to have been resurrected due to Chinese, Middle Eastern and Russian demand, another year passed before we heard more definitive talk about an Aston Martin expansion when AutoCar reported that the Lagonda could be built on one of Mercedes-Benz's AMG SUV platforms.
A report in Automotive News Europe indicates plans have gotten serious, its unnamed sources saying that the English carmaker is talking to Daimler "to extend their cooperation to building an SUV." Neither Daimler, Aston Martin nor Investindustrial, the managing partner among Aston Martin's ownership consortium, would comment. But with Investindustrial having pledged to expand the range, competitors like Bentley, Maserati and Lamborghini getting into the SUV racket and clear demand from current and future customers, it's easy to believe Aston Martin is working hard to put the pieces together.
One further potential bump on the road to an Aston SUV is the company's search for a new CEO. Ulrich Bez relinquished to top spot at the company at the end of 2013, and Aston reportedly will not finalize its model strategy without a new CEO in place.