Introducing the Aston Martin DB12: Unleashing Superior Power and Performance

Aston Martin, the renowned British luxury brand, is set to redefine the automotive landscape with its highly anticipated release, the Aston Martin DB12. Serving as the successor to the iconic DB11, this remarkable vehicle aims to showcase Aston Martin’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence.

While the DB12 maintains some similarities with its predecessor, it surpasses the DB11 in terms of power and performance, positioning itself as “the world’s first super tourer.” Aston Martin has diligently enhanced the underlying structure of the DB12 by incorporating a reworked bonded extruded-aluminium framework. Notably, this upgrade yields a seven percent increase in overall structural rigidity, providing a solid foundation for an exhilarating driving experience.

The Aston Martin DB12 boasts a cutting-edge suspension system featuring adaptive dampers and stiffer anti-roll bars. An innovative stability control system utilises six-axis inertia, accurately predicting the available grip. For the first time in an Aston Martin vehicle, an electronic rear differential (E-diff) has been implemented, enhancing agility on winding roads. Naturally, the car maintains its rear-wheel drive configuration and incorporates an eight-speed automatic transmission with a shortened final drive ratio, setting it apart from the DB11.

Simon Newton, Aston’s Head of Vehicle Engineering, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We aimed to provide traditional touring strengths while delivering a much broader range of abilities that offer enhanced engagement on the right road. Dynamically, this car is a significant leap compared to the DB11. It’s like night and day.”

At the heart of the Aston Martin DB12 lies an extensively reworked version of Aston’s signature 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, sourced from Mercedes. Delivering an impressive 671bhp at 6,000rpm and 800Nm between 2,750rpm and 6,000rpm, the DB12 surges from 0-60mph in just 3.5 seconds, boasting a remarkable top speed of 202mph. These remarkable performance statistics make the DB12 approximately half a second quicker to 60mph than its predecessor, with a top speed that surpasses it by 10mph.

It is important to note that no details regarding a V12 version have been released thus far. Aston Martin’s current focus is on investing in V8 power, suggesting that the twin-turbo V12, recently upgraded for the DBS 770 Ultimate, may be reserved for limited-run models positioned above the DB12.

The Aston Martin DB12 showcases an array of impressive technical features, including 21-inch forged-alloy wheels as standard and bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires. Aston Martin becomes the first manufacturer to equip these vehicles with this exclusive tire compound. The DB12 incorporates a combination of 400mm (front) and 360mm (rear) brake discs. For those seeking the ultimate performance, carbon-ceramic brake discs are available as an optional feature, reducing unsprung mass by 27kg.

Marek Reichmann, the mastermind behind the DB12’s design, has successfully retained the distinctive Aston Martin GT aesthetics while introducing a marked evolution compared to the DB11. The vehicle maintains the same fundamental dimensions as its predecessor, albeit being approximately a centimetre shorter and a couple of centimetres taller. However, the DB12 differentiates itself with its wider track (6mm at the front, 22mm at the rear) and a strikingly captivating front end. 

Notable design elements include a larger radiator grille, updated daytime-running lights, and enhanced surfacing. Furthermore, the DB12 debuts an updated version of Aston’s iconic ‘wings’ badge. The sides of the DB12 are adorned with muscular rear haunches, contributing to its athletic stance. The overall design exudes cleanliness and sophistication, featuring flush door handles that gracefully present themselves to the owner upon approach.

One of the most remarkable transformations awaits within the cabin of the Aston Martin DB12. Receiving a much-needed technological upgrade, the vehicle bids farewell to the aging Mercedes-sourced infotainment system, welcoming Aston’s first-ever bespoke set-up. Developed in-house, this system integrates a 10.25-inch high-resolution screen, complete with wireless Android and Apple connectivity, as well as in-house navigation software.

Aston Martin has prioritised achieving a harmonious balance between physical controls and screen-based interactions. Essential mechanical functions, such as gear selection, drive-mode selection, heating and ventilation, chassis settings, and the switchable exhaust, are assigned dedicated buttons on the centre console. Simultaneously, the screen serves as the car’s gateway to the outside world, offering over-the-air updates and seamless integration with Aston’s dedicated smartphone app. This innovative app allows users to monitor the vehicle’s status and pre-program navigation instructions prior to embarking on a journey.

The DB12’s cabin showcases a high centre console, enveloping occupants in a truly immersive experience. The fully digital instrument panel coexists alongside meticulously crafted elements like Bridge-of-Weir leathers adorning the seats and door panels. The vehicle also includes an 11-speaker audio system as standard, with an optional 15-speaker, double-amplified 1,170-watt hi-fi developed in collaboration with Bowers & Wilkins. While the boot capacity slightly decreases to 262 litres compared to the DB11, the DB12 compensates with an array of advanced features and technologies.

With advanced previews already captivating audiences, Aston Martin has undoubtedly amassed an early order bank for the DB12. The company estimates that first deliveries will commence in the autumn season. Although no pricing details have been disclosed, the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies and features indicates a likely increase from the DB11’s initial price, with an anticipated starting figure of around £190,000.

The Aston Martin DB12 promises an extraordinary fusion of power, performance, and unrivalled luxury. As Aston Martin embarks on a new era, this remarkable vehicle represents a resounding testament to the brand’s relentless pursuit of automotive perfection.

What do you think of the car? We like the look of it in pictures, but look forward to seeing the car in the flesh.