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More power, finessed handling and a more aggressive look for Aston's enhanced DB12.
DB12 not enough? Vanquish too much? If that sounds like your predicament, Aston Martin have just revealed the car for you, the DB12 S. In true Aston ’S’ fashion, the S model brings a whole host of improvements to enhance the base model’s performance and character.
In this case, the headline figure is 700hp from a tweaked four-litre twin-turbo V8, 27hp more than the DB12, but still 135 short of the Vanquish powerhouse. Torque remains the same at 590lb ft, but 62mph comes up 0.1 seconds quicker thanks in part to an improved launch control system.
More than the outright power though, Aston has sought an improvement in feel with a more progressive throttle response and a superior sense of connection from the chassis with altered suspension geometry and a recalibrated E-diff said to increase agility and precision without sacrificing composure. That’s all software, but the brakes have had a significant hardware upgrade with carbon ceramic brakes coming standard, saving 27kg of unsprung mass.
The most obvious thing right away though, is the more aggressive look. There’s a new front splitter, sill trims and bonnet louvres, as well as a subtle rear spoiler and new diffuser. Also contributing to a greater visual presence are the new stacked tailpipes not only look unique, but the exhaust system is said to have been tuned to offer added depth and potency. There’s also the option of a titanium system, which further increases volume and shaves 11.7kg from the weight.
"The technology we introduced with the DB12 now allows us exceptional scope to explore a new depth of character and capability within the same vehicle platform. With DB12 S we have carefully engineered a host of detailed changes, which preserve signature levels of refinement, boost vehicle performance and amplify driver engagement."
Simon Newton — Director of Vehicle Performance, Simon Newton
Both Coupe and Volante versions of the DB12 S are available to order now, with prices to be confirmed, although one would imagine it should sit closer to the DB12’s £185,000 than the Vanquish’s £330,000.
