The aging Aston Martin DB11 was an elegant example of the time-honored tradition of combining V12 performance with Grand Touring luxury. However, The V12 couldn’t keep up with fuel regulations, and some of the interior technology was starting to age very rapidly. Aston Martin is out to solidify its place in the Grand Touring ranks with the unveiling of the all-new Aston Martin DB12, which will help usher Aston into a new generation of GT luxury.
V8 Is More Powerful Than Outgoing V12
The big story here is that contrary to what the 12-part of its moniker seems to advertise, the DB12 will not be equipped with a V12 engine. Instead, the model will be powered by a 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 that produces 671 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. These figures are not only more powerful than the V8-powered DB11 but are also 41 horses more than what you got in the V12 that powered the DB11 AMR (yes, let that sink in for a moment).
The beefier V8 also delivers better performance, with the DB12 capable of hitting 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph. The V8 also benefits from several significant revisions, including optimized compression ratios, larger turbochargers, improved cooling, and modified cam profiles. An eight-speed automatic is the lone transmission available, but the DB12 will be the first DB in history to come with an electronically operated limited slip differential to help improve power delivery while the updated suspension benefits from Aston’s next-generation adaptive dampers and stiffer anti-roll bars. Three drive modes are onboard (GT, Sport, and Sport+), and predictably, they ratchet up the fun factor, with Aston claiming that GT provides the smoothest ride quality while Sport+ is perfect for those looking to channel their inner F1 racer.
DB12 Design Pays Homage To The Past, Shows Brilliant Future
The design of the DB12 pays homage to Aston’s past, and on the surface, it’s a largely familiar affair, with Aston continuing to embrace an organic design language that builds on the coupe shape. The DB12 features a large front grille that’s now flanked by new LED headlights. Below the grille is a redesigned front splitter, and all DB12s will feature 21-inch wheels as standard equipment.
Frameless mirrors and flush door handles help enhance aerodynamics, and while the DB12 is not embracing a hybrid powertrain (for now), the revised aero will undoubtedly see the DB12 boast fuel economy that’s better than its outgoing predecessor.
Technology Plays More Prominent Role In DB12 Interior
The outgoing DB11 was a welcome upgrade over the ancient interior design and technology that defined the DB9. However, the DB11 was also seen as a small baby step towards Aston Martin’s goal of offering a luxury experience that was comparable to bespoke rivals. The DB12 is a radical evolution of this goal and is perhaps the closest that the company has come yet to matching contemporary rivals.
Amid the sea of leather, Alcantara and other leather accents is an all-new infotainment system that’s not sourced from another automaker but rather one that was developed in-house by Aston Martin themselves, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both being standard. The navigation system benefits from the updated software too and has a number of new features, including the capability to do 3D mapping, while a separate mobile-based application system aims to improve the car’s ability to pair with various mobile devices. Over-The-Air updates will also be newly standard too.
When Can I Buy One?
The very first DB12 was auctioned off for $1.6 million at a charity auction at the amFAR Gala Cannes, but buyers looking to add one to their garage in the U.S. will have to wait a bit to have their chance with the car not expected to reach our shores until later this year. Look for pricing to start somewhere around $245,000 though the cost of options, custom Q Division pieces, and other bespoke extras will undoubtedly help push that price even higher.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.