Aston Martin's new DBS Volante

The show goes on at Aston Martin with the introduction of a flagship convertible - the DBS Volante. The ingredients are simple: take one V12 Aston Martin, add an electric retractable cloth roof and a modest price increase and voila!

What's all the fuss about?

There are two schools of thought on cars like this: the first says that a super convertible is pointless at the moment because of the UK's financial and actual climate. The second, which we subscribe to, says that the world would be a duller place without such beauties - so bring it on. For those with the money it will be an exclusive machine, but an absolutely stunning one (we promise you), and with a soundtrack to match.

Any new technology?

Only the roof mechanism is new: the cloth roof folds down in a mere 14 seconds at the touch of a well machined button, and at speeds of up to 30mph. The 6.0-litre V12 engine is the same 510bhp unit powering the coupé, but despite the additional chassis strengthening (and thus weight) added for the cloth-top conversion, the coupé's 4.1 second 0-62mph dash remains. Like the hard-top version it also tops out at 191mph.

When can I buy one?

You can order one right now, but you'll have to wait to see it on your drive.

Mark Nichol