Central to Aston’s three-tier range is the DB9’s two-plus-two seating, differentiating it from big-brother Vanquish. Even if Ronnie Corbett and Kylie Minogue decided to have little ones, however, they would struggle to use them.
The DB9 isn’t a two-plus-two. It isn’t even a two-plus-one-to-the-pub-and-back. It’s a two-seater with lovingly trimmed luggage cubbies.
But what a cabin. As an interpretation of what a combination of traditional and contemporary Aston detailing should look like, it’s a triumph. From the multi-adjustable electric seat you face an instrument binnacle of unrivalled flamboyance.
Its silver faces make it difficult to read in some lights, but it looks wonderful. The computer read-outs are all finely pixellated and glow a sultry green.
Trim quality is beyond question. The hides look, feel and smell expensive. The clever use of different woods such as mahogany and bamboo works brilliantly.
The only ergonomic gripes are a poorly shaped steering wheel (too thick, too formless) and a slightly intimidating driving position: it’s a long old nose and not being able to see over the scuttle can be a problem.
Even though its sticker price belongs in the window of an estate agent, the DB9 remains a steal. It’s more desirable than a Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, but costs £67,000 less. That’s absurd. It has so much more image than the £99,069 Porsche 911 Turbo with optional Power Kit that the comparison seems unfair. And with a waiting list stretching into 2007 already, residuals are looking very strong.
Running the DB9 won’t be cheap. Our overall average fuel consumption was 12.1mpg, slipping to 8.5mpg at the track. This makes the 85-litre tank merely adequate. The 349g/km CO2 figure puts it into the top company car tax band.
