I would call the S rockers and front end, carbon addenda (example, rear diffuser) of the Vantage range and the creases and squinty headlight of the revised DB9 and new Vanquish blingy compared to the 2004/5 DB9/Vantage originals. That doesn't mean I dislike them... I think bling has its place in moderation. But what I am saying is that the design purity of the original cars has been lost, and I appreciated that for its minimalism and elegance. As for the duck tail, no bling there, just function IMO.

 

I believe the design issue you have uncovered above (Sleestak & IbisRider) is accommodation of the European Pedestrian Protection Regulation. Among other things, this reg requires 2" of space between the hood/bonnet and the first hard surface below. (This is not the actual wording, but it is how it was explained).

When the Vantage, DB9 and first XK were designed, 12 years ago or more, there was no ped reg, not even on the horizon. But when the F- type was designed, this reg ruled.

Pedestrian protection is controlling not only styling but also hardware function. Hoods now open at the windshield base of the XK and F-type and the last of the XKs have an explosive device at the latch end to lift the hood upon impact (similar to air bag). Maybe the F-type has a similar system, I don't know?

The DB10 (the future Vantage?) will also have to accommodate the ped reg. Our sweet, low hood height design for the last 10-11 years is threatened. Look for a clever resolution from AM.