Aston Martin Vulcan review

Front-engined cars sit you higher and further back so you’re less exposed to the visceral track sensations of having your eyes on stalks and heels grinding on the road, but in the Vulcan that’s replaced by a feeling you’re snugged deep into the belly of the beast. It’s dark in here, the wings of the seats bracket your face, the steering yoke juts back at you, you’re consumed by the noise and drama and violence, engine by your feet, driven wheels by your buttocks and exhaust exiting by your thighs.

Before you give yourself over to that, you’ll have admired the quality of the fit and finish. I don’t know why that should surprise me quite so much, but the door closure is precise, the bonnet rises on gas struts to reveal that glorious V12 sat so low it looks almost as if it’s been hammered into the tarmac, the precise feel and click of the paddles, the power of the aircon blower, the leather, toggle switches… the design and execution is stunning.

One of the few optional extras you can choose for your Vulcan is a machined carbon panel set. It costs £16,000, and includes strakes for the vents behind the front wheels, plus badges and interior air vent surrounds. Each is made from a solid block of laid-up carbon, machined down, which gives it this almost wood-like look and texture.

And it’s logical to operate – the steering wheel is a work of art, both visually and ergonomically, the power dial is easily grasped and twisted, the instrument screen easily read, toggles simply, satisfyingly flicked. It works, it feels complete and robust and safe in here. And so you trust it to look after you.