What is it? The Aston Martin DB12 Volante is the soft-top version of the DB12 coupe unveiled last year. Newly arrived in Australia, it has similar mechanicals to the coupe, and maintains the two-plus-two cabin.

What does it cost? The sum of $492,000 (plus on-road costs) gets a foot in the door. Add a few options and accessories, as did the person who specified our car, and things quickly accelerate from there. Our car had Spirit Silver exterior paint ($21,760), upgraded leather trim ($31,580) and many other extras, giving a sticker of $633,260 plus orc.