Aston Martin Vanquish V12

It looks powerful, muscular and almost regal in the way it has been made -from all angles - not like some professionally made-up, creatively retouched supermodels who may not look as good in person as they do on a magazine cover. I stood in front of it mesmerized, and the driving experience did little to change the feelings.

The Vanquish epitomises British engineering and to quite an extent design too, at its very best. There is a kind of rakishness to the style that draws everybody's eyes to it, followed by a spellbound look that leaves most mortals in awe. It also helps that there are not many vehicles bearing the same nametag on the roads, adding to its mystique and aura, unlike similar German competition.

The Vanquish comes standard as a two-seater, though a plus-two rear-seat configuration is optional. Although the factory now uses modern technology to a large extent, each and every Vanquish is still hand built to the exact individual requirements of its customers.

The Vanquish's exterior is almost visceral to interpret. It has that tradition and culture that, while being absolutely in sync with the times, harks back to the ethnicity of Aston, linking a lineage that began way back with the DB4 Zagato.

There is just the right balance between "muscularity and vulgarity" with its massive 19-inch wheels and muscle-bound flanks. There is a brutal combination of a fighter in a Bond Street suit and the Vanquish carries it off very well.

Inside is study in aluminium and Connolly leather. The seats are firm and envelope you to provide a feeling of sportiness coupled with luxury. Retro-inspired white-faced gauges reflect the overall interior ambience and look absolutely classy. Although the boot is not much, it will hold a golf bag and comes complete with its own aluminium-handled Vanquish-spec umbrella.

Driving this machine did wonders to my ego. Low slung, powerful and fast - it gives a sense of accomplishment and success. The 6.0-litre 460 bhp V12 makes itself felt right from the minute it cranked up, projecting the thrills yet to come once it starts rolling.

Power to the rear wheels is transmitted via a Tremec T56 six-speed manual controlled via a Magneti-Marelli-supplied electrohydraulically actuated paddle-shifter system. Neat shifter paddles on either side of the steering column control up and down shifts, while buttons on the centre stack allow the driver to select reverse gear, as well as winter, fully automatic, and sport modes.

The Vanquish is an extremely striking car and a sure ticket to popularity.