The year 2023 is quite a significant one for Aston Martin. The legendary British sportscar maker is celebrating a double milestone; 110 years since the company was founded as Bamford and Martin, and 75 years since the storied DB acronym was first attached to the brand signifying the David Brown era. What better way to observe this momentous anniversary than add a new member to the illustrious DB bloodline? Enter DB12, dubbed “the world’s first super tourer”, as the successor to the DB11, arguably one of the finest GTs to have come out of Britain.
It doesn’t have the ethereal looks of the Valkyrie or the Valhalla, its silhouette being a mere evolution of its predecessor’s. But the subtle design updates over the DB11 impart a bolder, more assertive stance and a generally more muscular profile to the DB12. Adding to the new car’s more imposing countenance is the larger grille and air intakes up front, along with the distinctive LED headlights.
Under the hood is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 671bhp and 800Nm of torque, making it one of the most potent DB models ever. The Gaydon carmaker has optimised the AMG-derived engine for performance with modifications to cam profiles, compression ratios, turbochargers, and cooling systems. The DB12 features an 8-speed automatic transmission and an electronic rear differential linked to the electronic stability control system to enhance its handling and dynamics. Aston Martin says this allows for precise and consistent handling, improved cornering capabilities, and optimal response.
The DB12’s performance is expectedly impressive, with a 0-100kph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 325 kmph. It offers a range of driving modes, including GT, Sport, Sport+, Wet, and Individual, allowing the driver to tailor the car’s behaviour to their preferences and driving conditions. The car’s chassis has also been engineered to increase structural stiffness, improve suspension performance, and enhance overall driver connection and control. It features adaptive dampers, electronic power-assisted steering, and an ESC system with six-axis inertia measurement.
The interior is decidedly driver-focused, with intuitive technology and a luxurious cabin swathed in hand-stitched Bridge of Weir hides that reflect the DB12’s grand tourer credentials.
The DB12 represents a new era for Aston Martin, with a focus on high-performance, ultra-luxury sports cars that integrate advanced technologies while delivering the signature driving experience the DB cars are known for. The car is set to go on sale later this year with first deliveries scheduled to begin by Q3 2023.
