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The latest V8 Vantage receives a mild design makeover and revised transmission, brakes and steering.

You're not going to notice much difference just looking at it, but Aston Martin says it's just given the V8 Vantage its most comprehensive update since 2008.

Many of the V8's improvements are measures first seen on the Vantage S, the 313kW 4.7-litre V8 Vantage ditching its six-speed Sportshift automated manual gearbox for a seven-speed Sportshift II unit.

With its extra cog, closer ratios, lower final drive and refined shift quality, the new 'box is said to offer faster and more precise shifting. A more traditional six-speed manual gearbox option is still in place.

What's more, a new steering column, re-valved power-steering pump and a quicker ratio of 15:1 (compared to 17:1 on the previous model) sharpen the steering while new 380mm two-piece ventilated cast-iron front brake discs and six piston calipers improve braking ability.

This new braking system also includes Hill Start Assist (HSA) for more precise control on steep inclines. The V8 Vantage also comes with tyres that are 10mm wider than the outgoing model.

While the visual changes to the V8 Vantage are on the subtle side, designers have made a few changes inspired by the Vantage S and N400 limited edition.

At the front a lower bumper - complete with aerodynamic splitter - houses a larger air intake that feeds the engine and front brakes. At the rear a diffuser creates added drama and function, while sculpted race-derived side sills aim for a more muscular look.

The 321kW Vantage S, meanwhile, adopts the Sportshift II seven-speed gearbox as standard and also gets a unique sports exhaust system and a motorsport-derived aerodynamic package and a standard Garmin satnav system.

The 380kW V12 Vantage continues unchanged while the more exotic V12 Zagato is now the range flagship.