Part 2 | The Second-Generation Aston Martin Vanquish - Evolution of a Modern Icon

Produced between 2012 and 2018, the second-generation Aston Martin Vanquish marked a decisive step into the modern era for the British marque. Lighter, sharper, and more technologically advanced than its predecessor, it represented the full maturation of Aston Martin’s VH architecture and carbon-fibre capability. Filmed at the Aston Martin Heritage Trust Museum in Oxfordshire and guided once again by Aston Martin historian Steve Waddingham, this episode explores how the second-generation Vanquish built upon the foundations of the original car while redefining performance, design and engineering for a new decade. With a naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 at its heart, extensive carbon-fibre bodywork, and a more advanced bonded aluminium structure, the Vanquish became the flagship of the Gaydon era — blending handcrafted British craftsmanship with cutting-edge materials and aerodynamic refinement. In this film, we examine: • How the second-generation Vanquish evolved • The role of carbon fibre in reducing weight and increasing rigidity • The engineering philosophy behind the Gen 2 VH platform • Why the Vanquish remains one of Aston Martin’s most important modern V12 grand tourers For owners, enthusiasts, historians and engineering fans alike, this episode reveals how Aston Martin refined its flagship for the modern age and why the second-generation Vanquish is fast becoming a true modern classic. If you haven’t already watched Part 1, Steve Waddingham first explores how Aston Martin built the original first-generation Vanquish, using the rare AMHT cutaway car to explain its aluminium, carbon-fibre and hand-built Newport Pagnell construction. ▶️ Watch Part 1 here:    • Part 1 | How Aston Martin Built the First-...   VIDEO CHAPTERS 0:00 Opening sequence 0:55 Introduction to the second-generation Vanquish 1:04 The Vanquish cutaway car 1:18 Why this car was different 1:25 Aston Martin’s first series-production carbon-fibre body 1:46 Carbon-fibre roof and body panel options 2:27 Carbon-fibre side structure and aluminium body tub 2:36 VH-era construction explained 2:59 Aluminium transmission tunnel and bonded structure 3:21 A-pillar strength and rollover protection 3:36 One-piece carbon-fibre rear quarter panel 4:05 Boot lid, air duct and aerodynamic design 4:56 Wider Aston Martin badge and rear design details 5:14 Rear lamps inspired by the Aston Martin wings 5:48 Early Vanquish exhaust layout and Vanquish S changes 6:06 Carbon-fibre weave and clear-lacquer cutaway finish 6:37 Personalisation and exterior trim options 7:05 Carbon ceramic brakes 7:20 Interior trim, stitching and seat design 7:42 Hourglass quilting and leather craftsmanship 8:52 Vanquish S quilting pattern 9:23 Quilted headlining and trim choices 9:40 How Vanquish expanded Aston Martin personalisation 10:04 Q by Aston Martin and one-off customer choices 10:32 Steve’s verdict on the second-generation Vanquish 10:36 Six-speed and eight-speed gearboxes 10:43 Grand touring ability and 2+2 layout 10:52 Why both Vanquish generations matter 11:21 Closing message from Steve Waddingham ▶️ Part 2 of the Vanquish construction & evolution series 👉 Watch Part 1 | How Aston Martin Built the First-Generation Vanquish This film was produced in collaboration with the Aston Martin Heritage Trust (AMHT), the independent charity dedicated to preserving and sharing Aston Martin’s history. Learn more and plan a visit: 🌐 www.amht.org.uk Explore more Aston Martin films, features and ownership stories at Fuel the Passion: 🌐 https://www.fuel-the-passion.co.uk 📺 Subscribe for more in-depth Aston Martin heritage content: @fuelthepassion #AstonMartin #AstonMartinVanquish #Vanquish #VanquishS #V12 #SecondGenerationVanquish #Gaydon #AstonMartinHeritage #AMHT #FuelthePassion #BritishEngineering #CarbonFibre #ModernClassic