The Aston Martin DB12 is more than just a successor to the iconic DB11—it marks a bold leap into a future where performance meets luxury in an unflinching fusion. Announced in 2023, the Aston Martin DB12 has carved its niche as the world’s first “Super Tourer,” offering a balance of high-speed capability, impeccable design, and cutting-edge technology. Let’s dive deep into the evolution, features, performance, and the unique personality that defines the DB12.
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The Legacy Continues
Aston Martin’s DB series has long been synonymous with British luxury, elegance, and high-performance motoring. From the DB5 made famous by James Bond to the sleek DB11, each model has carried forward a legacy of style and speed.
Now, the Aston Martin DB12 takes this heritage and redefines it for the modern era. With a sharper design, more powerful engine, state-of-the-art tech, and elevated driving dynamics, the DB12 sets a new benchmark in the GT (Grand Tourer) segment.
Bold New Design: Elegance Refined
Visually, the Aston Martin DB12 retains the familiar DB silhouette but sharpens the lines for a more aggressive, contemporary look. It’s wider, with a redesigned front grille that dominates the nose, flanked by all-new LED Matrix headlamps and signature DRLs. The car sits low and wide, asserting its athletic stance while exuding a commanding road presence.
Key exterior highlights:
- Massive front grille for improved engine cooling
- Wider track width for better handling
- 21-inch forged alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 5S tires
- Aerodynamic elements subtly integrated for functionality and style
From the rear, sleek taillights and a muscular rear bumper complement the overall design, while a new front splitter and rear diffuser improve stability at high speeds.
Interior Luxury: High Tech Meets Handcrafted Elegance
Step inside the DB12, and you’re greeted with an opulent cabin that blends luxurious materials with cutting-edge technology. Aston Martin has overhauled its infotainment system for the first time in years, opting for an in-house solution that supports over-the-air updates and seamless connectivity.
Interior highlights include:
- Hand-stitched Bridge of Weir leather or Alcantara upholstery
- All-new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- High-resolution 10.25-inch digital driver display
- 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system (optional 23-speaker upgrade)
- Dual-zone climate control and ventilated, memory seats
Every inch of the cabin feels tailor-made. The mixture of metal, carbon fiber, and soft-touch materials creates a driving environment that feels both futuristic and timeless.
Powertrain: A Beast Beneath the Beauty
Under the hood lies a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, sourced from Mercedes-AMG but meticulously tuned by Aston Martin engineers to deliver staggering performance. Unlike the DB11, which was available with both V8 and V12 engines, the DB12 focuses on extracting maximum performance from the V8 configuration.
Performance specs:
- Power output: 680 hp (671 bhp) at 6000 rpm
- Torque: 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) between 2750–6000 rpm
- 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): 3.6 seconds
- Top speed: 202 mph (325 km/h)
- Transmission: 8-speed ZF automatic with rear-wheel drive
The DB12 might not have a V12, but thanks to this finely-tuned V8 and a lightweight bonded aluminum structure, it’s faster and more agile than its predecessor. Engine mapping has been optimized for both city driving and track usage, making the DB12 an incredibly versatile machine.
Chassis & Handling: True Driver’s Delight
Aston Martin didn’t just stop at the powertrain. The chassis of the DB12 has been significantly reworked to deliver improved handling, feedback, and control. It features adaptive dampers, electronic rear differential (a first for the DB series), and a stiffer body structure for enhanced rigidity.
Dynamic upgrades:
- 7x stiffer suspension bushings than the DB11
- New adaptive dampers and revised spring rates
- Electronic rear differential (E-diff) for superior cornering
- Lighter, forged aluminum wheels for improved agility
The result? The Aston Martin DB12 is just as comfortable cruising on highways as it is attacking tight bends on a mountain road. The steering is precise, with ample feedback, and the ride quality is refined without compromising on excitement.
Technology and Infotainment: Welcome to the Future
One of the biggest changes in the Aston Martin DB12 is the debut of its proprietary infotainment system. It’s intuitive, sleek, and designed with a minimalist approach to reduce distraction.
Tech features:
- Fully digital driver display
- OTA updates for vehicle software and maps
- Biometric start system and connected smartphone app
- Optional night vision and 360-degree parking camera
- Advanced safety suite including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring
Aston Martin has finally stepped into the digital age with a tech package that competes with the best German luxury marques.
Personalization and Customization
The DB12 is a blank canvas for customers to tailor according to their tastes. Through the Q by Aston Martin bespoke program, buyers can choose from endless color combinations, unique interior trims, and even monogrammed accents.
Some of the customization options include:
- Over 40 exterior paint finishes
- Multiple wheel designs and finishes
- Unique interior trims in carbon fiber, wood, or metal
- Embroidered headrests, contrast stitching, and laser-etched controls
Aston Martin DB12 Volante: The Convertible Thrill
For those seeking open-top motoring, Aston Martin also unveiled the DB12 Volante, the convertible version of the DB12 coupe. It offers the same thrilling performance and luxury but with the added drama of a retractable roof.
The Volante shares the same engine, chassis, and technology but gets additional bracing to maintain structural rigidity.
Fuel Efficiency and Real-World Usability
While no Aston Martin is bought for fuel economy, the DB12 maintains reasonable numbers for a performance GT.
- Combined fuel efficiency: Approx. 20 mpg (US)
- 0–100 km/h in under 4 seconds
- Long-distance touring comfort thanks to a large fuel tank and adaptive cruise control
It’s the kind of car that can cross continents with ease while still thrilling on backroads.
Rivals and Alternatives
The Aston Martin DB12 competes in the ultra-luxury grand tourer segment. Here’s how it stacks up:
| Car | Engine | Power | 0–100 km/h | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrari Roma | 3.9L Twin-Turbo V8 | 612 hp | 3.4 sec | ₹3.76 Cr (approx) |
| Bentley Continental GT | 4.0L V8 or W12 | 542–650 hp | 3.5–3.6 sec | ₹3.6 Cr+ |
| Porsche 911 Turbo S | 3.8L Flat-6 Twin-Turbo | 641 hp | 2.7 sec | ₹3.3 Cr+ |
| Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo | 3.0L V6 Nettuno | 542 hp | 3.5 sec | ₹2.8 Cr+ |
The DB12 holds its ground with a perfect blend of performance and British character.
Pricing and Availability
As of 2024, the Aston Martin DB12 is available globally, including in India through official dealerships.
- India starting price: ₹4.59 crore (ex-showroom)
- Bookings are open, and deliveries have already started in major metro cities
It’s worth noting that each unit is highly customizable, so final prices can vary significantly based on options and packages.
Final Verdict: The Super Tourer We Deserve
The Aston Martin DB12 isn’t just a step forward—it’s a statement. A declaration that grand touring is far from obsolete. By blending performance, luxury, and technological sophistication, Aston Martin has created a car that feels as alive as it looks.
Whether you’re a loyal Aston customer or a GT enthusiast looking for something extraordinary, the DB12 is undoubtedly one of the most compelling choices available today.