Aston Martin has unveiled its latest creation, the DB12, which the company proudly dubs as “the world’s first super tourer.” This stunning vehicle, a successor to the acclaimed Aston Martin DB11, signifies a bold new chapter for Gaydon’s sports car family. The DB12 arrives on the scene as Aston Martin celebrates its 110th birthday and the 75th anniversary of the revered DB nameplate. While it shares its foundation with its predecessor, Aston Martin has implemented significant upgrades to the powertrain, chassis, and interior, aiming to gain a competitive edge against rivals like the Ferrari Roma and Bentley Continental GT.
According to Aston chairman Lawrence Stroll, the DB12 and its counterparts, the replacements for the DB11, Vantage, and DBS front-engined sports cars, represent more than mere facelifts. He describes them as “all-new cars” that will redefine the Aston Martin lineup. Although the DB12 bears some resemblance to its predecessor, the new name itself indicates the extent of the revisions, which go well beyond a traditional mid-life update.
Aston Martin’s director of product and market strategy considers the unveiling of the DB12 as a pivotal moment for the company, particularly under its new ownership. He states, “This is the culmination – and the first step, really – in an enormous overhaul of the business. The DB12 represents the first product from a complete renewal of our range over the next 24 months under the ownership of Lawrence [Stroll]. We have made substantial investments, not only in the visible product but also in the fundamentals of the business.”
The DB12, designed with the guiding principle that “grand is not enough,” is set to begin production in the coming months, with customer deliveries scheduled to start in the autumn. The anticipated starting price for this luxury vehicle is approximately £185,000.
A Striking Interior with Bespoke Infotainment System and Over-the-Air Updates
The DB12 showcases a completely new approach to car design, with the most noticeable transformation taking place inside the vehicle. Aston Martin is determined to ensure that its cars remain competitive in terms of luxury and technology at this price point. As Lawrence Stroll asserts, “How can you have an Aston Martin that sells for £150,000 with three-year-old technology?”
Consequently, Aston Martin has bid farewell to the outdated Mercedes infotainment platform, which received criticism, as it lacked a touchscreen interface compared to other offerings in this segment. Instead, the DB12 introduces an entirely bespoke and meticulously engineered infotainment system, developed in-house by Aston Martin’s software division.
According to designer Miles Nurnberger, “This is the start of a very big investment in interior design. For many, many years, we were renowned for exterior design, and I will admit we were falling behind.” The centerpiece of the cabin is now a 10.25-inch touchscreen, elegantly positioned atop a sloping center console known as the ‘waterfall.’ Aston Martin claims it is the highest-resolution screen in its class, with touch responsiveness of just 30 milliseconds. The new system incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, fulfilling a long-awaited upgrade for Aston owners, and introduces a wide range of connectivity features.
For instance, the navigation interface allows buyers to read restaurant reviews before setting them as destinations, and a new smartphone app enables pre-programming of route guidance before entering the vehicle. Over-the-air connectivity ensures that updates can be seamlessly installed without requiring a visit to the dealership. Additionally, customers can join an integrated interaction platform, forming an online community of Aston owners.
For the first three years following the purchase, Aston Martin will provide a selection of subscription features at no additional cost, including
4G-connected navigation, voice assistant, car locator, breakdown response, and remote diagnostics. Aston Martin’s investment in developing its own software division marks a significant milestone for the brand, as it signifies a departure from relying on external platforms. According to Aston Martin’s representative, the decision was driven by the need for specific functionalities and a desire to create a unique interface that aligns with the brand’s identity in the digital era.
Despite the substantial digital overhaul, Aston Martin acknowledges the importance of maintaining a balance between physical controls and digital interfaces. Designer Miles Nurnberger explains, “In bringing this trend of digitalization into the car, we’ve had to balance physical controls and digital controls in what we believe is the right way.” To achieve this harmony, the DB12 retains a comprehensive array of meticulously designed physical switchgear, conveniently positioned around a new gear lever and steering wheel for easy access and intuitive operation.
Enhanced Power and Performance from a Tuned Mercedes-AMG V8
Powering the Aston Martin DB12 is the latest iteration of the handbuilt, twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine developed in partnership with Mercedes-AMG. Through meticulous tuning, Aston Martin has increased the engine’s output to an impressive 671 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This represents a substantial improvement over the V8 engine found in the DB11, with a 34% increase in torque. The result is exhilarating performance, with a blistering 0-62 mph acceleration time of just 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph.
Achieving this power boost involved modifications such as modified cam profiles, adjusted compression ratios, larger turbochargers, and improved cooling. However, notably absent from the DB12’s engine lineup is the iconic 5.2-liter V12 that previously accompanied the V8 in the DB11. Aston Martin states that while there is a future for the V12 in an all-new application, the weight-saving advantage of the V8, which is 100 kg lighter over the front axle, combined with its impressive power and speed, made it the preferred choice for the DB12.
Refined Chassis for Enhanced Comfort and Control
Aston Martin has gone to great lengths to enhance the DB12’s appeal as a long-distance grand tourer while ensuring it delivers exhilarating handling akin to the most formidable supercars on the market. Simon Newton, Aston Martin’s engineering boss, affirms their intention to maintain a unique position in the segment, stating, “We still enjoy this niche in between Continental and Roma. But the segment has moved on since the 11…”
To achieve their performance goals, Aston Martin emphasizes the capabilities of the new Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system, which enhances responsiveness and agility at all speeds. The DB12 features uprated adaptive dampers and stiffer anti-roll bars, providing an “increased breadth of capability.” The aluminum chassis has been reinforced, resulting in a 7% increase in stiffness. This refinement not only improves the car’s dynamics and refinement but also enhances steering feel and brake response, thanks to a retuned brake booster.
Drawing inspiration from the development of the Aston Martin DBX SUV, the DB12 benefits from the lessons learned during the creation of both standard and high-performance variants of the SUV. The company aimed to replicate or even exceed the significant performance gap between the DB11 and DB12, just as they did with the DBX and its top-tier variant. While Aston Martin has not disclosed the exact track performance of the DB12, extensive testing has taken place at the renowned Nürburgring circuit.
A Striking Design Reflecting Performance and Power
Designer Miles Nurnberger and his team made performance and power the primary focus when crafting the design of the DB12. As
a result, the new GT exudes a more assertive and aggressive presence compared to its predecessor, the DB11. Nurnberger describes the design as having “more sensuality” while maintaining a technical edge.
One of the most noticeable design updates is the enlarged front grille, exuding a commanding presence on the road. The aero elements have been beefed up, contributing to improved aerodynamics and performance. The wheels have been upsized, and the tracks widened, with a 6mm increase at the front and a substantial 22mm increase at the rear, lending the DB12 a noticeably muscular stance.
Aston Martin also paid attention to the finer details to optimize aerodynamic efficiency. The wing mirrors have been meticulously crafted to be smaller and sleeker, reducing drag and aiding airflow around the car. Additionally, the door handles are now electronically “self-presenting,” seamlessly integrating into the sleek side profile of the vehicle while enhancing aerodynamic performance when in motion.
The headlights have undergone a redesign and now feature LED Matrix technology, providing improved visibility and a distinctive signature daytime running light (DRL) pattern. The iconic Aston Martin wings badge, which represents the brand’s heritage and prestige, proudly graces the DB12, marking the first time it has adorned a production car.
Looking Ahead to Aston Martin’s GT Cars
As Aston Martin ushers in the DB12 as the successor to the DB11, enthusiasts and fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for the brand’s future GT cars. The DB12 represents the beginning of a significant transformation for Aston Martin under the stewardship of Lawrence Stroll, the chairman. Aston Martin’s director of product and market strategy expresses that the DB12 is just the first step in an extensive overhaul of the brand’s entire lineup over the next two years.
With Aston Martin’s commitment to performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, it is likely that future GT models will continue to push boundaries and deliver exceptional driving experiences. Whether it’s through advancements in powertrains, innovative design elements, or enhanced connectivity and infotainment systems, Aston Martin’s GT cars are poised to captivate and thrill enthusiasts who seek the perfect combination of performance and refinement.
As Aston Martin embarks on this new era, one thing is certain—the passion for crafting exquisite GT cars will remain at the heart of the brand’s DNA, ensuring that each vehicle bears the iconic Aston Martin emblem with pride and continues to embody the spirit of British automotive excellence.