Even without a V12, the Aston Martin DB12 delivers more power than the DB11 – and it seems to do it better.
May 24, 2023 in 6:01 p.m. ET
In January, we caught our first glimpse of the successor to the Aston Martin DB11. At the time, the car was already wearing a production body and lights but we weren’t sure what it was called. Today, the British manufacturer unveils the all-new DB12, heralding a new era for the automaker with more power, better dynamics and a higher level of comfort inside.
Aston Martin is proud of its new product, which it describes as a world first Super tourer and “the most complete and accomplished Model DB” in the company’s history. But to answer your biggest question right away – no, there’s no mention of V12 power yet. However, the newly improved 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 from Mercedes-AMG now delivers much more power than before, making the DB12 more powerful than the DB11 V12.
Gallery: Aston Martin DB12
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In this new implementation, the eight-cylinder mill produces 671 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 590 lb-ft of torque between 2,750 and 6,000 rpm. This represents an increase of more than 30 percent over its V8 predecessor and 41 horsepower more than the DB11 AMR with its 5.2-liter V12 engine. The new coupe boasts a 0-60mph time of just 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 202mph.
Aston Martin says it has made several important revisions to the V8 engine to make it more capable than before. These include revised cam profiles, improved compression ratios, larger diameter turbochargers, and improved cooling thanks to a completely redesigned cooling system with two additional auxiliary radiators over the existing main radiator. The DB12 is also the first DB model to feature an electronic rear differential, which can go from fully locked to fully unlocked within milliseconds. The V8 engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
All that power requires a suspension that can handle the increased forces, so Aston Martin introduces the next generation of adaptive dampers and stiffer anti-roll bars. There are three driving modes—GT, Sport, and Sport+, with mounting response and stiffness. In the most conservative setting, the automaker says, the ride quality is comfortable and offers “a great, agile ride.”
Design-wise, the DB12 comes with a completely revised and familiar design. The front end is dominated by a giant grille flanked by new LED headlights. Above the grille is the latest version of the Aston Martin crest, while below the grille is a completely reshaped splitter. The car sits on standard 21-inch wheels that hide 400mm cast iron front discs and 360mm rear discs. Frameless side mirrors and flush door handles contribute to a sleeker design and lower drag coefficient.
A standout feature within the cabin – in addition to the massive driver-focused center console and the finest Alcantara leather – is the all-new infotainment system, entirely designed and developed by Aston Martin. It features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a new navigation system with online connectivity and 3D mapping, a mobile device app, and updates over the air.
Aston Martin will begin deliveries of the new DB12 during the third quarter of this year. Pricing details are expected closer to the sale date.
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