Aston Martin has teased a near-production spec model of its next-generation Vantage which is expected to be launched by the end of the year.

While the car is camouflaged, the slim headlights and grille are definitely influenced by the Vulcan hypercar. Everything about the teased model, from the raked windscreen in the front to the massive diffuser flanked by a dual exhaust system at the rear, implies that this is a car designed with performance in mind.

The next-gen Vantage makes use of a new lightweight aluminium architecture that is a shortened version of the DB11’s, improving agility compared to its predecessor.

The first Vantage to launch internationally will be the entry-level model sporting Mercedes-AMG’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that is expected to produce about 500hp. The extra 64hp of power over the previous Vantage S (436hp), along with a lighter body, will help the new Vantage better the previous car’s 4.8sec sprint to 100kph. A top speed of over 300kph is also expected. The base Vantage is expected to get a six-speed manual transmission along with an optional six-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The V12 Vantage will be launched at a later date using the same 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 found in the V12 DB11. A hardcore AMR-branded track car could be part of the carmaker's agenda.

As part of a new model blitz, all of Aston Martin’s key cars will be refreshed. The line-up will include an all-new DBX SUV and the Lagonda. The electric RapidE, which was confirmed earlier this year as a limited-run model, is set to enter production in 2019.