Scorcher Aston Martin Vantage GT4

The GT4 was launched in Dubai this week by company head David Richards.

The car replaces the Vantage N24 and though Aston isn't yet talking performance, its 4.7-litre V8 is claimed to be tuned for torque.

Aston Martin Lagonda sales manager for Australia, Marcel Fabris, said though there were no firm orders at this stage for the GT4, he said there was interest on the back of the upcoming GT4 Australian championships.

"The vehicle will only be built in left-hand drive guise so will not be road registrable in Australia," he said.

"Pricing will start at GBP96,645.00 (about $215,000) plus local duties, taxes and freight.

"The good news is that the vehicle won't be subject to the luxury car tax as it is purely a race car."

The Vantage GT4 has been under development for six months and has been tested extensively at the Dubai Autodrome.

The car is an evolution of the N24 with the larger-capacity engine — up to 4.7 from 4.3 litres — with the accent on it being more responsive and with increased torque over a wider rev range.

It gets a free-flow exhaust system and air filters. The standard V8 dry-sump lubrication system is retained but the suspension has been retuned and included modified front uprights to give increase negative camber.

It also has bigger front brake discs with revised cooling.

The Vantage GT4 is available either with a manual or sportshift transmission.

It is built to FIA GT4 regulations and is eligible to compete in events including the Australian Endurance Championship, FIA GT4 European Cup, British GT4 Championship and the American SCCA Championship.

If you're keen, order now for a delivery in January.